Top 30 Navy Forces in 2024
Top 30 Navy Forces in 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

Country Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Personnel Strength Annual Budget (2024)
United States United States Navy (USN) 484 11 67 347,000 active-duty personnel $255.8 billion
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

A ship from the United States Navy
A ship from the United States Navy/YouTube Screenshot/Sam Eckholm

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.

Personnel Strength

Crew members of a U.S. Navy warship
The crew of a U.S. Navy ship/YouTube Screenshot/Sam Eckholm

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

A submarine of the Chinese Navy
A modern Chinese submarine/YouTube Screenshot/Eurasia Naval Insight
Country Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
China People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) 730 3 61 49 42 72 150 36
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

Chinas Type 055 Destroyer
Chinas Type 055 Destroyer warship/YouTube Screenshot/Eurasia Naval Insight
  • 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

A submarine and a ship of the Russian Navy
A submarine and a ship of the Russian Navy/YouTube Screenshot/The Military Show
Country Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Russia Russian Navy 781 1 49 15 11 86 0 0
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

Country Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
India Indian Navy 295 1 17 10 13 23 139 3
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

Trap Landing of MiG29K on aircraft carrier INS Vikrant
Landing of MiG29K on INS Vikrant/YouTube Screenshot/ThePrint
  • 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

Country Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
United Kingdom Royal Navy 117 2 10 6 13 0 18 13
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

HMS Queen Elizabeth Carrier - R08
HMS Queen Elizabeth Aircraft Carrier/YouTube Screenshot/Megaprojects
  • 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

Country Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
France Marine Nationale 128 1 10 11 11 0 15 17
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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) 155 0 21 36 6 0 10 12
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

ShinMaywa US-2 aircraft
ShinMaywa US-2 aircraft /YouTube Screenshot/Defense Now

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) 200 0 22 12 13 16 45 10
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

Warships of the Republic of Korea Navy
One of the more powerful in Asia/YouTube Screenshot/Eurasia Naval Insight

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Italian Navy (Marina Militare) 309 1 8 4 8 0 60 12
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

Aircraft carrier of the Italian Navy
Aircraft carrier of the Italian Navy/YouTube Screenshot/Diversus military

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Turkish Naval Forces 186 0 12 0 16 10 50 12
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

TCG Anadolu amphibious assault ship
TCG Anadolu amphibious assault ship/YouTube Screenshot/Interesting Engineering

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Brazilian Navy 134 0 5 2 6 2 70 8
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

Several ships of the Brazilian Navy on the open sea
Largest naval force in Latin America/YouTube Screenshot/MOTORIZADO

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) 333 0 4 0 8 12 260 4
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

Diesel electric attack submarine
Diesel-electric attack submarine/YouTube Screenshot/Behind Asia

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Pakistan Navy 114 0 5 0 7 2 90 6
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

Pakistan Navy Ship Babur-280
Pakistan Navy Ship Babur-280/YouTube Screenshot/Pakistan Navy

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Egyptian Navy 140 0 8 0 6 10 50 4
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

ENS Al Galala FREMM Frigate
ENS Al Galala FREMM Frigate/YouTube Screenshot/Naval News

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Royal Australian Navy (RAN) 43 0 6 3 9 0 20 5
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

Perth-class guided missile destroyer HMAS Hobart
HMAS Hobart/YouTube Screenshot/Defence Australia

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) 67 0 4 0 12 0 40 6
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

A ship of the Royal Canadian Navy sails through the ice
A ship of the Royal Canadian Navy sails through the ice/YouTube Screenshot/Royal Canadian Navy / Marine Royale Canadienne

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Spanish Navy (Armada Española) 168 0 3 0 12 0 120 15
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

Spanish frigate Cristóbal Colón
Spanish frigate Cristóbal Colón/YouTube Screenshot/Defence Capsule

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
German Navy (Deutsche Marine) 64 0 6 0 12 5 30 6
The German Navy is a highly advanced force focusing on maritime security in the Baltic Sea and global peacekeeping operations.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

German U32 submarine in the harbor
German U32 submarine/YouTube Screenshot/WELT Documentary

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Royal Thai Navy 293 0 0 0 10 5 260 18
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 fleet of the Royal Thai Navy
The fleet of the Royal Thai Navy/YouTube Screenshot/SOF Edit

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Swedish Navy (Svenska Marinen) 353 0 5 0 0 12 300 36
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

Swedish M76 warship
Swedish M76 warship/YouTube Screenshot/Nation Forces

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Royal Norwegian Navy 25 0 6 0 5 0 12 2
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

Ships of the Royal Norwegian Navy
Coast defenders of Norway/YouTube Screenshot/BFBS Forces News

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Royal Netherlands Navy (Koninklijke Marine) 112 0 4 0 6 0 40 10
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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Hellenic Navy 187 0 11 0 12 6 120 8
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

Super Vita-class missile boat
Super Vita-class missile boat/YouTube Screenshot/Weapon Detective

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Islamic Republic of Iran Navy 101 0 19 0 5 4 60 4
The Iranian Navy focuses on protecting its coastline, securing the Persian Gulf, and projecting power in the region.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

A warship of the Iranian Navy
A warship of the Iranian Navy/YouTube Screenshot/Eurasia Naval Insight

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Royal Saudi Navy 57 0 0 0 7 6 30 8
The Royal Saudi Navy is a growing naval power, focusing on protecting vital maritime trade routes and ensuring regional stability.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

A corvette of the Saudi Arabian Navy
Modern frigates and corvettes/YouTube Screenshot/Military Trends

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Israeli Navy 67 0 5 0 0 4 50 6
The Israeli Navy is a compact yet technologically advanced force, focusing on protecting Israel’s maritime borders and interests.

Fleet Composition and Capabilities

Sa'ar 4.5-class missile boat
Sa’ar 4.5-class missile boat/Binkov’s Battlegrounds

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Royal Malaysian Navy 101 0 2 0 6 4 70 8
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

A Kasturi-class corvette in front of a Keris-class littoral mission ship
Kasturi-Class Corvette/YouTube Screenshot/Behind Asia

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Argentine Navy (Armada Argentina) 41 0 3 2 4 0 25 5
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

ARA Drummond Lead ship of the Drummond-class
ARA Drummond Lead ship of the Drummond-class/YouTube Screenshot/Asian Defense | Dung Tran Military

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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Mexican Navy (Armada de México) 194 0 2 0 6 4 170 12
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

Four ships of the Mexican Navy
Patrolling the coast of Mexico/YouTube Screenshot/Ariete

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

Key Highlights

Members of the Mexican Navy disembark on the shore
A military exercise of the Mexican Navy/YouTube Screenshot/Ariete
  • 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

Naval Force Name Total Active Ships Aircraft Carriers Submarines Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Patrol Vessels Mine Warfare Ships
Vietnam People’s Navy 97 0 6 0 10 0 70 5
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

A warship of the Vietnamese Navy
A warship of the Vietnamese Navy/YouTube Screenshot/Behind Asia

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.

Luc Petersen
I’m Luc Petersen, a passionate news reporter for HurfPost Brazil, where I uncover and share the stories that shape our world. With a background in investigative journalism, I thrive on digging deep to reveal the truth and give a voice to the voiceless. My work often takes me to the heart of pressing social and political issues, aiming to bring about positive change through informed storytelling. Outside the newsroom, I’m an avid traveler and history buff, always seeking new perspectives and narratives.