India, US, China or Pakistan: Which country has the most combat tank fleet? List of top 10
What is a Combat Tank?
A combat tank is a heavily armoured vehicle that carries powerful weapons and moves on metal tracks instead of wheels. The design helps it move over rough land, making it useful in warzones. Tanks were first introduced during World War I, with Britain creating the world's first functional tank called Little Willie. Since then, tanks have become more advanced, faster, and stronger.
A Brief History of Tanks in Warfare
The idea of using vehicles in war is not new. Thousands of years ago, ancient Egyptians used horse-drawn chariots during battles. Later, in the Middle Ages, people used armoured wagons and battering rams. But the invention of the modern-day combat tank changed everything. It allowed armies to break through enemy lines and added a new level of power to ground forces.
Military Spending and the Rise of Combat Tanks
According to a report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), global military spending increased by 37% between 2015 and 2025. Many countries are now investing in air defence and land forces. Adding more combat tanks to their armies is one of the main strategies to strengthen their military power.
Top 10 Countries with the Most Combat Tanks in 2025
Here's a look at the top 10 countries with the largest combat tank fleets in 2025:
1. China – 6,800 Tanks
China tops the list with a massive fleet of 6,800 combat tanks. The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) owns the world's largest number of main battle tanks (MBTs) currently in service. This reflects China's focus on becoming a leading global military force.
2. Russia – 5,750 Tanks
Russia holds the second position with around 5,750 tanks. One of its most powerful tanks is the T-14 Armata, a fourth-generation main battle tank built on the Armata Universal Combat Platform. Despite economic challenges, Russia continues to invest in armoured strength.
3. United States – 4,640 Tanks
The United States ranks third with a total of 4,640 combat tanks. Most of these are M1A2 Abrams tanks, considered one of the most powerful MBTs in the world. The US also has a large number of reserve tanks ready for action.
4. North Korea – 4,344 Tanks
North Korea has surprised the world with its fleet of 4,344 tanks, securing the fourth spot. In 2024, North Korea introduced a new MBT that closely resembles Western tank models, strengthening its ground forces.
5. India – 4,201 Tanks
India is in the fifth spot with around 4,201 combat tanks. According to the website War Power India, its fleet includes the Ajeya Mk.2 (T-72 Ajeya), and Bhishma (T-90S (Bhishma)). These tanks boost India's ability to respond to threats from neighbouring countries and improve its defence capabilities.
6. Egypt – 3,620 Tanks
Egypt comes sixth with 3,620 tanks, including 1,130 US-made M1A1 Abrams. This makes Egypt one of the leading nations in terms of tank strength in the Middle East and Africa.
7. Pakistan – 2,627 Tanks
Pakistan ranks seventh with 2,627 tanks in its fleet. In 2024, the country launched an ambitious project through Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) to develop an Active Protection System (APS) for its main battle tanks, aiming to modernise and enhance tank performance.
8. Türkiye – 2,238 Tanks
Türkiye holds the eighth position with 2,238 tanks. The country uses a variety of tank models, including Leopard 1, Leopard 2, M60 Sabra, M60 Patton, and M48 Patton. Türkiye's defence industry has also been working on producing its own tank called Altay.
9. South Korea – 2,236 Tanks
With a total of 2,236 tanks, South Korea ranks ninth. Its advanced K2 Black Panther is considered one of the most modern and technologically superior combat tanks in the world today.
10. Iran – 1,713 Tanks
Iran rounds off the list with 1,713 combat tanks. It has developed home-grown models like the Karrar and Zulfiqar tanks. These domestic tanks show Iran's efforts to reduce reliance on foreign arms imports.
As military strategies continue to evolve, so does the race to build better, stronger, and faster combat tanks. These tanks will remain a key part of any country's defence system for years to come.
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