Top 30 Strongest Navies in the World 2024

Naval power plays a critical role in national security and global influence. The strongest navies in the world are equipped with advanced fleets, technological innovations, and the ability to operate across vast maritime regions.

This article ranks the top naval forces, highlighting the nations leading in maritime strength.

Methodology

The rankings and evaluations in this article were derived through a comprehensive analysis of publicly available data on global naval forces. The following steps and criteria were used to ensure accuracy and consistency in the methodology:

Data Collection

1. Primary Sources: Information was gathered from government defense publications, official naval websites, and reports from recognized defense analysis organizations such as WDMMW and Global Firepower.
2. Secondary Sources: Additional data were sourced from reputable defense-focused media outlets and academic research articles.
3. Cross-Verification: Data from multiple sources were cross-verified to ensure reliability and consistency.

Evaluation Criteria

1. Fleet Size: The total number of active ships, including submarines, aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, corvettes, patrol vessels, and mine warfare ships, was considered.
2. Technological Capabilities: Evaluation of advanced systems, such as radar, missile defense, and stealth technologies, in critical vessels like submarines, destroyers, and aircraft carriers.
3. Strategic Roles: The ability of each navy to operate in regional and global theaters, as well as its focus on securing trade routes, power projection, and regional stability.
4. Budget and Investments: Consideration of annual naval budgets and ongoing modernization programs that enhance fleet capabilities and strategic reach.
5. Geopolitical Importance: Assessment of the navy’s role in national security, alliance-building, and participation in international missions.
6. Personnel Strength: Analysis of the number of active-duty personnel to determine the human resource capacity for sustaining naval operations.

Here is the Full List of Strongest Navies in the World

Country	Naval Force Name	Total Active Ships	Submarines
United States	United States Navy (USN)	484	67
China	People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN)	730	59
Russia	Russian Navy	598	49
India	Indian Navy	295	17
United Kingdom	Royal Navy	117	10
France	French Navy (Marine Nationale)	128	10
Japan	Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF)	155	21
South Korea	Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN)	200	22
Italy	Italian Navy (Marina Militare)	309	8
Turkey	Turkish Naval Forces	186	12
Brazil	Brazilian Navy	134	5
Indonesia	Indonesian Navy (Tentara Nasional Indonesia-Angkatan Laut)	333	4
Pakistan	Pakistan Navy	114	5
Egypt	Egyptian Navy	140	8
Australia	Royal Australian Navy (RAN)	43	6
Canada	Royal Canadian Navy (RCN)	67	4
Spain	Spanish Navy (Armada Española)	168	3
Germany	German Navy (Deutsche Marine)	64	6
Thailand	Royal Thai Navy	293	0
Sweden	Swedish Navy (Svenska Marinen)	353	5
Norway	Royal Norwegian Navy	25	6
Netherlands	Royal Netherlands Navy (Koninklijke Marine)	112	4
Greece	Hellenic Navy	187	11
Iran	Islamic Republic of Iran Navy	101	19
Saudi Arabia	Royal Saudi Navy	57	0
Israel	Israeli Navy	67	5
Malaysia	Royal Malaysian Navy	101	2
Argentina	Argentine Navy (Armada Argentina)	41	3
Mexico	Mexican Navy (Armada de México)	194	2
Vietnam	Vietnam People’s Navy	97	6

Note: The numbers presented are based on available data as of 2024 and may be subject to change due to ongoing developments.

*Data for this article was sourced from Global Firepower (GFP) and World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMW) and was cross-referenced for accuracy.

1. United States – USN

The United States Navy (USN) is a leading the spot among strongest navies known for its unmatched technological capabilities and strategic importance in maritime operations. It plays a critical role in ensuring the country’s security and maintaining international stability.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The USN operates 484 active ships, which include 11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, 67 submarines, and a variety of surface combatants such as destroyers and cruisers. The presence of advanced amphibious assault ships further strengthens its operational versatility, enabling power projection across oceans.

Your Navy is operating nearly 100 ships around the globe every day.

That includes the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford.

Take a brief look at some of what @Warship_78 is up to in the Atlantic Ocean. @US2ndFleet | @CSG_4 | @COMNAVAIRLANT11 pic.twitter.com/QgiaepXuCG

— U.S. Fleet Forces (@USFleetForces) March 21, 2023

Personnel Strength

The Navy supports a strong workforce of over 347,000 active-duty personnel, alongside an additional reserve force. This skilled team ensures the efficient operation of all naval systems and the execution of global missions with precision.

Budget and Investments

It has requested a 2024 budget of $255.8 billion to support its ongoing projects, including the construction of advanced Columbia-class submarines and Ford-class aircraft carriers. This financial backing reinforces its commitment to modernization and readiness.

Global Reach and Strategic Role

The Navy’s extensive network of bases, including facilities in regions like the Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe, ensures its ability to rapidly respond to emerging threats. Its naval presence secures critical trade routes and strengthens alliances with partner nations.

Recruitment and Training

In 2024, the naval forces achieved a recruitment milestone by enlisting over 40,000 new personnel, surpassing expectations. Comprehensive training programs continue to develop skilled sailors capable of navigating the challenges of modern naval warfare.

2. China

China’s PLAN has rapidly expanded and modernized, establishing itself as a key maritime power. It currently operates the largest fleet in the world by the number of active ships. China’s strategic emphasis lies in securing regional dominance and increasing global naval presence. It’s a strong contender that will surely remain in top 3 places among strongest navies, and could possibly take the first place at some moment.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

• The PLAN operates 730 active ships, including 3 aircraft carriers, 61 submarines, and numerous destroyers, frigates, and corvettes.
• Its advanced destroyers, such as the Type 055, feature state-of-the-art radar systems and missile capabilities.
• Submarines in the fleet include both nuclear-powered and diesel-electric models, ensuring a robust underwater presence.

3. Russia

The Russian Naval forces remain one of the strongest navies in the world. Its extensive fleet reflects Russia’s strategic focus on regional dominance and its ambitions for global influence. With a strong emphasis on submarines, surface combatants, and nuclear capabilities, the Russian Navy ensures a significant presence in critical maritime regions.

Key Insights

• The Russian Navy operates one of the largest fleets globally, with 781 active ships.
• It includes a mix of ballistic missile submarines, attack submarines, and surface ships like destroyers and frigates.
• Russia’s single aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, is currently undergoing extensive repairs.
• A significant portion of the fleet is stationed in the Northern Fleet, which guards Arctic interests and nuclear assets.
• Recent investments have focused on upgrading existing vessels and developing new platforms, such as the Yasen-class nuclear submarines.

4. India

The Indian Naval forces is a key maritime force in the Indian Ocean region. It plays a vital role in safeguarding India’s interests across its vast coastline and ensuring security in critical maritime trade routes.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

• The Indian Naval forces operates 295 active ships, including 1 aircraft carrier, 17 submarines, and numerous destroyers and frigates.
• Notable vessels include the INS Vikrant, an indigenously built aircraft carrier, and the Kolkata-class destroyers equipped with advanced missile systems.
• The submarine fleet comprises nuclear-powered and diesel-electric models, ensuring strategic deterrence and combat capabilities.

5. United Kingdom

The Royal Navy is one of the oldest and most distinguished naval forces in the world, known for its global reach and technological advancements.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

• The Royal Navy operates 117 active ships, including 2 aircraft carriers and 10 submarines.
• The HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales serve as the navy’s flagship carriers, designed for advanced combat and power projection.
• Submarine operations feature Astute-class nuclear-powered vessels with strategic and tactical roles.

6. France – Marine Nationale

The Marine Nationale is a critical force within NATO and the European Union, recognized for its global operations and advanced capabilities.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

• The French naval forces operate 128 active ships, including 1 aircraft carrier and 10 submarines.
• The Charles de Gaulle, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, is a centerpiece of the fleet, supporting air operations and maritime dominance.
• Advanced frigates and nuclear submarines enhance the navy’s operational flexibility.

7. Japan

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is a prominent maritime power in the Asia-Pacific region. Its focus on advanced technology and strategic defense capabilities ensures the protection of Japan’s interests and maritime security.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The JMSDF operates 155 active ships, including advanced submarines, destroyers, and support vessels. The force emphasizes maritime surveillance, regional stability, and disaster response.

Key Assets

• 21 submarines featuring cutting-edge technology for underwater operations.
• The Izumo-class destroyers, which are equipped for anti-submarine warfare and air operations.
• Advanced Aegis-equipped destroyers designed for missile defense.

8. South Korea

The Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) is a formidable force with a focus on defense and regional stability. It has grown significantly in capability and size to address maritime threats and strategic challenges.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

South Korea’s navy consists of 200 active ships, including 22 submarines and a wide array of destroyers, frigates, and corvettes. The fleet is well-equipped for modern naval warfare.

Key Highlights

• The ROKN operates the Sejong the Great-class destroyers, known for their advanced missile systems and radar capabilities.
• Submarines include the Jang Bogo-class, designed for stealth and long-range missions.
• The ROKN plays a critical role in counter-piracy operations and securing shipping lanes.

9. Italy

The Italian Navy (Marina Militare) is a versatile naval force with a significant presence in the Mediterranean. It plays a vital role in safeguarding maritime security and supporting international missions.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Marina Militare consists of 309 active ships, including 8 submarines and a diverse range of surface vessels. Its capabilities reflect Italy’s commitment to defense and peacekeeping.

Key Highlights

• The Italian Navy operates the Cavour aircraft carrier, which serves as a flagship for power projection and humanitarian missions.
• Submarines include the Todaro-class, which are stealthy and equipped with advanced torpedoes.
• The FREMM-class frigates provide multi-role functionality for anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare.

10. Turkey – Turkish Naval Forces

The Turkish Naval Forces represent a key maritime power in the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions. Their focus on modernizing their fleet ensures operational readiness and regional dominance.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

Turkey’s naval forces operate 186 active ships, including 12 submarines and an array of advanced surface vessels. The navy plays a critical role in NATO missions and regional security.

Key Highlights

• The G-class frigates and Ada-class corvettes provide advanced anti-submarine and surface warfare capabilities.
• Submarines in the fleet include the Preveze-class, designed for stealth operations.
• Turkey is investing in the TCG Anadolu, a multipurpose amphibious assault ship with potential aircraft carrier capabilities.

11. Brazil

The Brazilian Navy is the largest naval force in Latin America, focusing on safeguarding Brazil’s extensive coastline and economic interests. It supports regional and international missions. Brazil is also among the strongest armies in the world, ranked 12th in 2024.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Brazilian Navy operates 134 active ships, including 5 submarines. Its modernization efforts are aimed at enhancing its strategic capabilities.

Key Highlights

• The fleet includes the Bahia, a multipurpose amphibious assault ship for peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.
• Submarines feature the Scorpène-class, known for advanced sonar and stealth capabilities.
• Brazil is developing its first nuclear-powered submarine, the Álvaro Alberto, under the PROSUB program.

In September 2024, the Brazilian Marine Corps conducted Operation Formosa, its largest annual military exercise, at the Formosa Instruction Camp in Goiás. The exercise involved over 3,000 personnel and featured participation from U.S. and Chinese troops, as well as observers from eight other countries. The drills focused on amphibious operations, live-fire exercises, and joint interoperability.

12. Indonesia

The Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) is one of the largest naval forces in Southeast Asia. Its primary mission is to protect Indonesia’s extensive archipelago and maritime interests.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Indonesian Navy boasts 333 active ships, including 4 submarines and a diverse range of patrol and support vessels. It focuses on coastal defense and regional cooperation.

Key Highlights

• The fleet includes the KRI Raden Eddy Martadinata-class frigates, equipped for multi-role missions.
• Submarines include the Nagapasa-class, offering enhanced stealth and combat capabilities.
• The navy plays a critical role in securing busy shipping lanes such as the Strait of Malacca.

13. Pakistan

The Pakistan Navy is a key maritime force in the Arabian Sea, ensuring the security of Pakistan’s coastline and exclusive economic zone. It also supports regional peacekeeping efforts.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Pakistan Navy operates 114 active ships, including 5 submarines. Its modernization strategy focuses on enhancing surface and underwater combat capabilities.

Key Highlights

• The navy’s fleet includes the Zulfiqar-class frigates, equipped for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare.
• Submarines feature the Agosta-class, known for advanced combat and stealth capabilities.
• The navy actively participates in international maritime security operations.

14. Egypt

The Egyptian Navy is the largest naval force in Africa, focusing on regional stability and protecting maritime trade routes in the Mediterranean and Red Sea.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Egyptian Navy operates 140 active ships, including 8 submarines. Its fleet includes advanced frigates and corvettes, reflecting its modernization efforts.

Key Highlights

• The FREMM-class frigates provide versatile capabilities for multi-role operations.
• Submarines include the Type 209, known for their advanced sonar and stealth systems.
• The navy supports peacekeeping missions and secures the strategic Suez Canal.

15. Australia

The Royal Australian Navy is a highly advanced maritime force, playing a vital role in securing Australia’s vast coastline and maritime interests. Its focus on regional security and modernization makes it a key naval power in the Indo-Pacific.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Royal Australian Navy operates 43 active ships, including 6 submarines. It emphasizes multi-role capabilities and interoperability with allied forces.

Key Highlights

• Submarines include the Collins-class, known for advanced stealth and combat capabilities.
• The navy’s Hobart-class destroyers feature state-of-the-art missile and radar systems.
• The Canberra-class amphibious ships provide strategic lift and humanitarian assistance capabilities.

16. Canada

The Royal Canadian Navy is a versatile maritime force, focusing on defending Canada’s coastline and contributing to global peacekeeping and security missions.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The RCN operates 67 active ships, including 4 submarines. Its fleet includes frigates, patrol vessels, and auxiliary support ships.

Key Highlights

• The Halifax-class frigates serve as the backbone of the fleet, providing multi-role capabilities.
• Submarines include the Victoria-class, which offers enhanced underwater surveillance and combat capabilities.
• The RCN actively participates in NATO and international exercises, enhancing interoperability.

17. Spain

The Spanish Navy is a modern maritime force, focusing on defending Spain’s maritime interests and contributing to NATO and European Union missions.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Armada Española operates 168 active ships, including 3 submarines. Its fleet features a variety of advanced vessels for multi-role operations.

Key Highlights

• The navy’s fleet includes Álvaro de Bazán-class frigates, known for advanced radar and missile systems.
• Submarines feature the S-80 Plus-class, designed for enhanced stealth and long-range missions.
• Spain operates the Juan Carlos I, an amphibious assault ship with aircraft carrier capabilities.

18. Germany

The German Navy is a highly advanced force focusing on maritime security in the Baltic Sea and global peacekeeping operations.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Deutsche Marine operates 64 active ships, including 6 submarines. It emphasizes cutting-edge technology and strategic versatility.

Key Highlights

• Submarines include the Type 212A, known for superior stealth and endurance.
• The fleet features Brandenburg-class frigates equipped for multi-role missions.
• Germany contributes significantly to NATO’s maritime operations.

19. Thailand

The Royal Thai Navy is one of the largest naval forces in Southeast Asia, focusing on securing Thailand’s extensive maritime borders and participating in regional peacekeeping.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Royal Thai Navy operates 293 active ships. While it does not include submarines, the fleet focuses on patrol and mine countermeasure operations.

Key Highlights

• The fleet includes Krabi-class patrol vessels, designed for coastal security and anti-smuggling operations.
• The navy actively engages in regional maritime exercises to enhance interoperability.
• Plans are underway to introduce a submarine capability in the future.

20. Sweden

The Swedish Navy is a technologically advanced force with a primary focus on defending Sweden’s coastline and maritime interests in the Baltic Sea.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Svenska Marinen operates 353 active ships, including 5 submarines. It emphasizes stealth and advanced combat systems.

Key Highlights

• The Gotland-class submarines are globally recognized for their stealth and air-independent propulsion systems.
• The Visby-class corvettes feature advanced radar-evading designs and multi-role capabilities.
• Sweden plays a significant role in ensuring Baltic Sea security through cooperation with NATO.

21. Norway

The Royal Norwegian Navy is a compact but highly capable force focusing on defending Norway’s maritime borders and Arctic interests.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Royal Norwegian Navy operates 25 active ships, including 6 submarines. Its fleet emphasizes stealth and versatility.

Key Highlights

• The Ula-class submarines are highly stealthy and optimized for operations in the Arctic and coastal waters.
• Fridtjof Nansen-class frigates provide multi-role capabilities for defense and international missions.
• The navy has invested in advanced patrol vessels to secure Arctic waters.

22. Netherlands

The Royal Netherlands Navy is a modern and versatile force that plays a key role in NATO and international maritime security operations.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Dutch Navy operates 112 active ships, including 4 submarines. Its fleet includes advanced surface vessels and amphibious capabilities.

Key Highlights

• Walrus-class submarines are known for their stealth and long-range missions.
• The De Zeven Provinciën-class frigates feature state-of-the-art radar and missile systems.
• The navy supports international peacekeeping and disaster relief missions.

23. Greece

The Hellenic Navy is a key maritime force in the Eastern Mediterranean, focusing on regional security and protecting Greece’s extensive coastline and islands.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Greek Navy operates 187 active ships, including 11 submarines. Its fleet is well-balanced and capable of multi-role missions.

Key Highlights

• The navy operates advanced Type 214 submarines, offering superior stealth and combat capabilities.
• Hydra-class frigates provide robust anti-air and anti-submarine capabilities.
• The navy plays a significant role in securing vital maritime trade routes.

24. Iran

The Iranian Navy focuses on protecting its coastline, securing the Persian Gulf, and projecting power in the region.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Iranian Navy operates 101 active ships, including 19 submarines. Its fleet is designed for asymmetric and coastal defense strategies.

Key Highlights

• The Ghadir-class submarines are optimized for operations in shallow waters.
• Moudge-class frigates are equipped with advanced radar and missile systems.
• The navy has been expanding its capabilities to include long-range operations.

25. Saudi Arabia

The Royal Saudi Navy is a growing naval power, focusing on protecting vital maritime trade routes and ensuring regional stability.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Saudi Navy operates 57 active ships, with a strong emphasis on modern frigates and corvettes.

Key Highlights

• Al Riyadh-class frigates provide advanced anti-air and anti-surface capabilities.
• The navy has invested in high-speed patrol boats for coastal security.
• A modernization program includes plans for acquiring new submarines and advanced vessels.

26. Israel

The Israeli Navy is a compact yet technologically advanced force, focusing on protecting Israel’s maritime borders and interests.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Israeli Navy operates 67 active ships, including 5 submarines. It emphasizes stealth and advanced weaponry.

Key Highlights

• Dolphin-class submarines are among the most advanced in the region, offering nuclear strike capability.
• Sa’ar 6-class corvettes provide advanced air defense and missile capabilities.
• The navy actively supports counter-terrorism and coastal security operations.

27. Malaysia

The Royal Malaysian Navy plays a critical role in safeguarding Malaysia’s maritime interests and securing vital trade routes in Southeast Asia.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Royal Malaysian Navy operates 101 active ships, including 2 submarines. It focuses on coastal defense and regional cooperation.

Key Highlights

• The Scorpène-class submarines provide stealth and advanced combat capabilities.
• The Maharaja Lela-class frigates are equipped with modern weapon systems for multi-role operations.
• The navy actively participates in joint maritime exercises to enhance regional security.

28. Argentina

The Argentine Navy is a prominent maritime force in South America, focusing on protecting Argentina’s coastline and contributing to peacekeeping missions. The strongest navies in southern America are led by Argentina and Brazil, and Argentina may get closer to reaching the top 10 spots in the future if they continue with the development.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Argentine Navy operates 41 active ships, including 3 submarines. Its modernization programs aim to enhance its capabilities.

Key Highlights

• TR-1700-class submarines provide strategic underwater capabilities.
• The Almirante Brown-class destroyers feature advanced radar and missile systems.
• The navy plays a significant role in search and rescue missions in the South Atlantic.

29. Mexico

The Mexican Navy is one of the strongest navies in Latin America, focusing on maritime security, counter-narcotics operations, and disaster response.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Mexican Navy operates 194 active ships, including 2 submarines. Its fleet includes a variety of patrol and amphibious vessels.

Key Highlights

• The Oaxaca-class patrol vessels are optimized for coastal security and surveillance.
• Amphibious assault ships support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions.
• The navy actively participates in international peacekeeping and anti-smuggling operations.

30. Vietnam

The Vietnam People’s Navy focuses on protecting Vietnam’s extensive maritime borders and asserting its presence in the South China Sea. If the country continues investing in new equipment, the list of strongest navies in 2025 may see Vietnam in a much higher position.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

The Vietnamese Navy operates 97 active ships, including 6 submarines. It emphasizes coastal defense and sovereignty.

Key Highlights

• Kilo-class submarines provide advanced stealth and combat capabilities.
• Gepard-class frigates are equipped with modern weapon systems for multi-role operations.
• The navy plays a vital role in securing shipping lanes and territorial waters.

Last Words

Naval power ensures national security and global stability. The strongest navies protect vital interests, support alliances, and maintain dominance across the seas. Their influence shapes the future of maritime operations and international peace.