Global military expenditure has surged to record levels, underscoring a world increasingly defined by strategic rivalry and persistent conflict.
Fresh data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute shows total defence spending reached $2.887 trillion in 2025, marking an 11th straight year of growth and pushing the global defence burden to its highest share of GDP since 2009.
A small group of countries continues to dominate global military spending. The United States remains far ahead despite a decline in outlays, while China has extended its decades-long expansion in defence budgets.
Russia and Germany have also ramped up spending significantly, driven largely by the ongoing war in Ukraine and Europe's renewed security concerns.
India has retained its position as the world's fifth-largest military spender, with defence expenditure rising to $92.1 billion.
The increase reflects a steady and strategic approach focused on modernisation, infrastructure, and technological advancement, particularly in response to ongoing tensions along its borders. In contrast, Pakistan's military spending rose to $11.9 billion, a modest figure in comparison.
While the growth rate appears notable, its limited fiscal capacity restricts long-term capability building, leaving a substantial and widening gap between the two South Asian neighbours.
Europe has witnessed the sharpest rise in defence budgets, as countries accelerate rearmament amid the Ukraine conflict.
Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific nations are also increasing military investments, with China's expansion influencing regional dynamics and prompting countries like Japan and Taiwan to boost spending. Overall, the data points to a sustained global trend rather than a short-term spike.
With conflicts ongoing and geopolitical tensions unresolved, defence expenditure is expected to remain on an upward trajectory, further reshaping global power balances-particularly in regions like South Asia, where disparities in military capability continue to grow.
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