The global arms trade is a significant aspect of geopolitics and international relations. As countries strive to maintain their security and assert their influence, the demand for military hardware remains high. In this article, we delve into the top 10 biggest arms importers in the world in 2024, analyzing the factors behind their substantial defense procurement. The 10 largest arms importers in the world in 2025 are Ukraine, India, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Japan, Australia, Egypt, United States and Kuwait.
List of the 10 largest arms importers in the world
The 10 biggest arms importers in the world in 2025 are Ukraine, India, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Japan, Australia, Egypt, United States and Kuwait.
Ukraine, the largest arms importer in the world
Ukraine became the world’s largest arms importer during 2020–2024, driven entirely by the massive military aid it received following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. It accounted for 8.8% of global imports, with 45% coming from the United States, followed by Germany and Poland. Most of the weapons were donated, including artillery, air defence systems, and combat aircraft, enabling Ukraine to sustain its defence and counter-offensives.
India, the second largest arms importer in the world
India has been a significant player in the global arms import market for several decades. Tensions with Pakistan and China, have been major drivers of India’s demand for arms.
India retained its position as a major arms importer, accounting for 8.3% of the global total. Its top suppliers were Russia (36%), France (33%), and Israel (13%). India has undertaken initiatives to replace imports with domestically designed and produced weapons systems. These efforts align with India’s broader objectives of strengthening its defense industrial base, achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing, and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Qatar, the 3rd biggest arms importer
Qatar’s rapid rise as a regional power in the Middle East has necessitated substantial defense procurement. The country has sought to bolster its military capabilities and security partnerships in the face of regional challenges and evolving geopolitical dynamics.
Qatar’s arms imports surged by 127% compared to the previous period, making it the third largest importer globally. The country sourced weapons primarily from the USA (48%), Italy (20%), and the UK (15%). It procured advanced combat aircraft, naval vessels, and missile systems, in part to boost its defence capabilities amid regional rivalries.
Saudi Arabia, the 4th largest arms importer
As a major regional power, Saudi Arabia relies heavily on arms imports to maintain its military dominance. The country’s defense needs are primarily driven by its concerns regarding regional stability and maintaining a strategic edge over its rivals.
Previously the world’s top arms importer, Saudi Arabia dropped to fourth place in 2020–24, with imports declining by 41%. Despite this, it still accounted for 6.8% of global arms imports. The United States (74%) remained its dominant supplier, followed by Spain and France. The drop reflects the cyclical nature of procurement and partially a shift in regional defence dynamics.
Pakistan, the 5th biggest arms importer in the world
Pakistan has faced long-standing security concerns that have fueled its demand for arms.
Pakistan significantly ramped up its arms imports—increasing by 61%—to support a major military modernisation effort. It accounted for 4.6% of global imports, with a heavy dependence on China, which supplied 81% of its imports. Key acquisitions included fighter jets, frigates, and long-range missiles as Pakistan focused on countering regional threats, particularly from India. This strategic partnership between Pakistan and China has deepened over the years. Shared geopolitical interest is the basis of the two countries’ strong defense relations.
Japan, the 6th biggest arms importer in the world
Japan’s pacifist constitution and its need to address regional security challenges make it a significant arms importer. It seeks to enhance its self-defense capabilities by procuring advanced military technology and equipment. Japan’s expansion of military capabilities is largely driven by the growing tension with China and North Korea. The country has seen 93% increase in its arms imports between 2015-19 and 2020 -24. With 97% of its arms coming from the United States, Japan imported advanced systems like F-35 fighter jets, missile defence systems, and maritime patrol aircraft. The surge reflects Tokyo’s shift toward a more assertive security posture.
Japan is currently investing heavily in long-range strike capabilities. On February 14, 2023, Japan’s Defense Minister announced plans to purchase all required Tomahawk cruise missiles in a single transaction in 2023. This consolidated approach highlights Japan’s commitment to enhancing its missile counterstrikes capabilities swiftly.
Australia
Australia’s arms import is largely driven by a perceived heightened threat from China. Australia imported 3.5% of global arms, down from previous periods, but remained a key buyer of advanced defence systems. Its top suppliers were the USA (81%), Spain, and Norway. Australia continued to build its naval strength and air capabilities, including deals for nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS partnership.
In March 2023, Australia announced a significant defense procurement deal. It involves the purchase of three nuclear-powered attack submarines from the United States. The deal is part of a multi-decade plan aimed at bolstering the allies’ presence in the Asia-Pacific region. It would cost Australia around $150 billion. The strategic move comes in response to China’s increasing assertiveness in military affairs.
Egypt
Egypt’s geographical location, regional instability, and counterterrorism efforts contribute to its status as one of the largest arms importers in Africa and the Middle East. The country focuses on modernizing its military forces and strengthening its defense capabilities.
Egypt’s arms imports declined by 44%, but it still ranked 8th globally. Germany (32%), Italy (27%), and France (19%) were its top suppliers. Cairo focused on strengthening its navy and air force with submarines, frigates, and fighter aircraft amid its regional security concerns in the Mediterranean and North Africa.
Amidst maritime disputes in the eastern Mediterranean, Egypt prioritized enhancing its naval capabilities from 2019 to 2023. During this period, Egypt acquired four submarines and received the first of four frigates ordered from Germany. Additionally, they obtained two out of three frigates ordered from France and two frigates from Italy. These acquisitions signify Egypt’s commitment to strengthening its naval fleet in response to regional challenges.
United States – 9th Largest Arms Importer
Though primarily known as the world’s leading arms exporter, the United States also ranked 9th among the top arms importers in 2020–2024, accounting for 3.1% of global imports. Much of this was driven by its efforts to modernise and diversify its military arsenal, often acquiring specialised equipment from allies like the United Kingdom, France, and Israel. These imports reflect America’s strategy of maintaining interoperability with partner forces and accessing niche capabilities not produced domestically.
Kuwait
Kuwait emerged as the 10th largest arms importer globally, with 2.9% of the world’s total imports. In response to regional security concerns, Kuwait significantly boosted its defence spending and procured advanced weaponry from key allies. The United States remained its top supplier, followed by Italy and France. Major acquisitions included fighter jets, air defence systems, and armoured vehicles, as the Gulf state continued to invest in modernising its military infrastructure.
Summary of the 10 largest arms importers in the world in 2025
The biggest arms importers in the world in 2025 are
- Ukraine
- India
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Pakistan
- Japan
- Australia
- Egypt
- United States
- Kuwait
In conclusion, the global arms trade continues to thrive, with several countries heavily relying on arms imports to address their security needs. The top 10 largest arms importers demonstrate the diverse range of factors that influence defense procurement. These countries’ efforts to strengthen their military capabilities reflect the complex and evolving nature of international security concerns.
FAQs
Who are the five largest arms importers in the world?
Ans: Between 2020 and 2024, the five largest arms importers were Ukraine, India, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan.
Who is the biggest arms importer in the world?
Ans: Ukraine was the world’s biggest arms importer from 2020 to 2024, accounting for 8.8% of global imports. Most of these arms were supplied as aid in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
