Top 10 Largest Arms Importing Countries in the World

Global defense spending has surged in recent years, reshaping the arms trade market worldwide. From war-torn Ukraine to rising powers like India and Qatar, several nations are being drawn to import upon the least proficient aspects of war. SIPRI sheds light on the top ten arms-importing countries for 2020-2024.

Ukraine

Ukraine retains the rank and file of being the top arms importer in the world at 8.8%, with the ongoing conflict with Russia acting as a spur for its imports, mostly from the USA, Germany, and Poland.

India

India holds 8.3% of the imports, modernizing defense against threats from China-Pakistan with supplies from Russia, France, and Israel.

Qatar

With 6.8% imports, Qatar is still investing in advanced air defense and fighter jets and buying arms mainly from the USA, Italy, and the UK.

Saudi Arabia

6.8% imports of Saudi Arabia seek to strengthen Gulf defense strategies and depend on major suppliers such as the USA, Spain, and France for weapons.

Pakistan

Having a 4.6% share in imports, is mainly sourcing arms from China, the Netherlands, and Türkiye, with tension from India and the requirement for military modernization as its main drivers.

Japan

A 3.9% yükselen increase in imports into Japan suggests rising concern about Indo-Pacific security, with the USA, the UK, and Germany being its key defense suppliers. 

Australia

With an estimated 3.5% influx of imports, Australia strengthens its military capabilities as a counterbalance to China’s influence, relying heavily on arms trade with the USA, Spain, and Norway. 

Egypt

Egypt constitutes 3.3% of worldwide arms imports, with active interest in advanced air and naval systems, bought from Germany, Italy, and France.

United States

USA, even being the foremost exporter, imports about 3.1% mainly from advanced systems from the UK, France, and Israel, for defense modernization. 

Kuwait

Kuwait, from 2.9% continues to depend on the USA, Italy, and France for modern arms with a view to ensuring security in the Gulf amid growing tensions in the region. 

The SIPRI chart illustrates how geopolitics, regional tensions, and security challenges continue to drive global arms imports. From Ukraine’s desperate wartime need to India’s strategic modernization and Qatar’s defense build-up, every country’s imports speak of power, preparedness, and influence. This global arms race shows no sign of dying down.

Disclaimer- This article is for informational purposes only. The data is sourced from SIPRI (2020–2024) and does not endorse arms trade or usage.