China Military Power Ranking 2025
MPR Rank: 2nd
MPR SCORE: 2014
MPR Index: 0.9553 (1.0000 is perfect)
Reverse MPR Index: 0.0425 (0.000 is perfect)
Z Score = +4.122 (standard deviations above the mean)
Overview
China ranks 2nd in the 2025 Military Power Rankings (MPR), due to its massive ground forces including the Rocket Force, space capabilities, electronic and multi-domain warfare capability, rapidly expanding missile and nuclear arsenal, military production capacity, especially ship building, A2AD systems, and rapidly modernizing and expanding defense infrastructure. China excels in regional power projection, force mobilization, and military-industrial innovation. Its military doctrine prioritizes homeland defense, anti-access strategies, and dominance in the Asia-Pacific region.
China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has undergone massive transformation over the past two decades, shifting from a labor-heavy force to a modernized warfighting machine. It now leads the world in personnel, missile deployment, and naval shipbuilding. Through major investments in stand-off weapons, hypersonic weapons, cyber capabilities, anti-ship missiles, and space-based assets, China poses a formidable challenge to U.S. and regional forces.
Despite lacking combat experience in recent decades, the PLA has focused on doctrine modernization, joint operations, and building self-reliant defense industries. This focus on strategic denial, precision strikes, and multi-domain integration ensures China’s 2nd place in the 2025 Military Power Rankings.
Military Strengths and Why China is ranked 2nd.
1. Largest Standing Army and Ground Forces
Active troops: 2,000,000+ (largest globally)
Maintains 3,500+ Main Battle Tanks (MBTs), including Type 99 and Type 96A
Heavy mechanized infantry, rocket artillery, and mobile air defense units
2. Regional Power and A2/AD Mastery
Denies access to adversaries in South China Sea and Taiwan Strait
Deployed carrier-killer missiles: DF-21D, DF-26
Integrates air, naval, cyber, and missile assets into unified regional deterrence
2. Naval Expansion and Maritime Strategy
Operates 2 aircraft carriers (Liaoning, Shandong) with a 3rd (Fujian) undergoing sea trials
Fleet includes 50+ destroyers, 40+ frigates, and 70+ submarines, including nuclear-powered SSNs and SSBNs
Implements A2/AD doctrine (anti-access/area denial) using DF-21D and DF-26 anti-ship ballistic missiles
Leads in shipbuilding rate and coastal combat vessel deployment
Prioritizes regional sea control over expeditionary operations
3. Hypersonic Weapons and Missile Superiority
DF-17 hypersonic missile: operational and deployed
DF-41 ICBM: MIRV-capable with long-range global strike potential
Extensive SRBM/IRBM force, including DF-15, DF-16, DF-17 hypersonic glide vehicles
4. Cyber and Electronic Warfare Capabilities
World-class offensive cyber units under PLA Strategic Support Force
Jams, disrupts, and hacks adversary systems with advanced tools
Develops AI-enhanced EW systems and quantum-secure communications
5. Space and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance)
Robust satellite constellation for reconnaissance, early warning, and missile guidance
Co-orbiting ASAT (anti-satellite) technologies and hypersonic delivery vehicles
Conducts regular satellite launches via Long March rocket family
6. Defense Industry and Military Modernization
Produces its own tanks, jets, missiles, ships, and satellites
Indigenous defense giants: NORINCO, AVIC, CASC, CETC
Domestic production ensures resilience in long-term warfare
Short, interior lines of supply contrast with U.S. reliance on global networks
Strategic partnership with Russia enhances R&D and shared weapons platforms
Advances in quantum communication, 5G militarization, and space warfare
Heavy investments in AI-driven autonomous warfare platforms
7. Nuclear and Strategic Deterrence
Maintains a credible nuclear triad:
Land-based ICBMs: DF-41 (12,000–15,000 km, MIRV-capable), DF-5B (13,000+ km, silo-based)
Submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs): JL-2 and JL-3 (up to 10,000+ km range), deployed on Type 094 SSBNs
Strategic bombers: H-6N (nuclear-capable), and development of the stealth H-20
Estimated nuclear warheads: 410+ (SIPRI 2024)
Expanding MIRV capability ensures second-strike resilience
Hardened launch silos, mobile ICBM units, and SSBN patrols improve survivability
China’s meteoric rise in military capability is reshaping the global balance of power. It combines massive manpower with modernized force structure, cutting-edge missile technology, and a defense industry rivaling any in the world. While it still lags the U.S. in blue-water naval reach and Russia in combat-tested firepower, its regional dominance, strategic patience, and growing global influence justify its #2 MPR ranking.
China is now fully capable of deterring, denying, and countering any force in East Asia—and is increasingly extending its reach beyond. The U.S. may remain dominant in some areas, but China's integrated, well-resourced military architecture marks it as 2nd in the Military Power rankings.
From its earliest days to its decisive victories in World War II and successful defense of North Korea in the Korean War to its crushing defeat of India in 1962 and strategic assertion in Vietnam, China’s recorded military history of over 4000 years reflects an unparalleled legacy of resilience, strategic acumen, and restraint. The PLA’s modernization over recent decades has solidified China’s position as a dominant global power, capable of defending its interests and projecting strength across the globe. With a blend of historical resolve and modern innovation, China continues to shape the global military landscape.
Military Strength and Force Projection
Active Military Personnel: 2,035,000 (IISS 2023)
Reserve Personnel: 510,000 (SIPRI 2023)
Paramilitary Forces: 660,000 (CIA World Factbook)
Army Personnel: 975,000 (IISS 2023)
Navy Personnel: 320,000 (IISS 2023)
Air Force Personnel: 400,000 (Jane’s Defence 2023)
China fields the largest standing army in the world, with massive reserves and a strong paramilitary force. Its focus on regional force projection, particularly in the South China Sea, makes it a formidable opponent, although its global force projection capability remains limited compared to the United States.
Ground Forces
Main Battle Tanks (MBTs): 5,250+ (SIPRI 2023, IISS 2023)
Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs): 35,000+ (SIPRI 2023)
Artillery Pieces (Towed and Self-Propelled): 10,000+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS): 2,000+ (IISS 2023)
China’s ground forces are vast, with over 5,000 MBTs, including the advanced Type 99 tank. While China’s ground force firepower is substantial, it remains below Russia in terms of technological sophistication and sheer firepower. However, China’s vast number of AFVs and artillery systems ensures strong regional dominance.
Air Force
Combat Aircraft: 3,500+ (IISS 2023, SIPRI 2023)
Attack Helicopters: 300+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Strategic Bombers: 120+ (IISS 2023)
Transport Aircraft: 700+ (IISS 2023)
The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has grown in both size and sophistication. China’s fifth-generation fighter, the J-20, is the backbone of its modern air force, while the H-6 strategic bomber continues to evolve with upgrades like the ability to carry nuclear-capable cruise missiles. Despite this, China's air superiority is challenged by the U.S. and Russia, both of which field more advanced aircraft.
Aircraft Breakdown:
J-20 (Stealth Fighter): 150+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
J-16 (Multirole Fighter): 250+ (SIPRI 2023)
J-10C (Multirole Fighter): 400+ (IISS 2023)
J-11B (Air Superiority Fighter): 300+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
H-6 (Strategic Bomber): 120 (SIPRI 2023)
Y-20 (Transport Aircraft): 40+ (IISS 2023)
Naval Forces
Warships: 100+ major combat vessels (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Submarines: 70+ (SIPRI 2023)
Aircraft Carriers: 3 (IISS 2023)
Frigates and Destroyers: 60+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
China’s People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) is the second-largest navy in the world and continues to grow. With three operational aircraft carriers, including the Liaoning and Shandong, China is rapidly expanding its naval presence. While China’s naval power lags behind the U.S. in terms of global reach, its submarine fleet and growing number of destroyers make it a formidable force in the Asia-Pacific region.
Naval Vessel Breakdown:
Liaoning (Aircraft Carrier): 1 (IISS 2023)
Shandong (Aircraft Carrier): 1 (SIPRI 2023)
Type 003 (Aircraft Carrier): 1 (SIPRI 2023)
Type 093 Shang-Class Nuclear Submarines: 6 (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Type 055 Destroyers: 8 (SIPRI 2023)
Type 052D Destroyers: 25+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Missile Inventory
China’s missile technology is among the most advanced in the world, especially in terms of conventional missile capabilities and hypersonic weaponry. The DF (Dongfeng) missile family includes a range of nuclear and conventional missiles, giving China a robust strategic deterrence capability.
Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)
DF-41 (CSS-X-20)
Range: 15,000 km
Warhead: Multiple warheads (MIRV), nuclear
Quantity: 100+ (SIPRI 2023)
DF-5B
Range: 12,000 km
Warhead: MIRV, nuclear
Quantity: ~20 (IISS 2023)
Medium-Range Ballistic Missiles (MRBMs)
DF-26
Range: 4,000 km
Warhead: Conventional/Nuclear
Quantity: 200+ (SIPRI 2023)
Hypersonic Missiles
DF-17
Range: 2,500 km
Warhead: Hypersonic glide vehicle, conventional/nuclear
Quantity: Unknown (operational, SIPRI 2023)
Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs)
JL-3
Range: 9,000 km
Warhead: Nuclear
Quantity: Deployed on Type 094 SSBNs
Cruise Missiles
CJ-10
Range: 2,000 km
Warhead: Conventional
Quantity: Hundreds (SIPRI 2023)
Anti-Ship Missiles
YJ-18
Range: 500 km
Warhead: Conventional
Quantity: Widely deployed (on ships, submarines, and coastal batteries)
Strategic Partnerships and Alliances
China’s strategic alliances are primarily focused on regional partnerships, including the SCO, and those with Russia and Pakistan, and various Southeast Asian nations. While China lacks formal alliances like NATO, its economic influence and Belt and Road Initiative provide it with strategic leverage across multiple continents.
Military History & Combat Experience
China’s recorded military legacy spans over 4000 years, making it one of the oldest martial traditions in the world. From the Warring States period to the Mongol invasions, China has engaged in prolonged campaigns of both defense and conquest. Legendary military thinkers like Sun Tzu shaped doctrines still taught globally. Imperial dynasties such as the Han, Tang, Song, and Ming fielded massive armies, built defensive fortifications like the Great Wall, and defended vast frontiers across Central and Southeast Asia.
Following the 1949 Communist victory, China’s modern military trajectory became defined by a mixture of decisive engagements and strategic restraint.
World War II (1937–1945): China endured an 8-year war against Imperial Japan beginning with the Second Sino-Japanese War. Despite being outgunned, Chinese forces held their ground in major battles such as Taierzhuang and Changsha, tying down over 600,000 Japanese troops. Both Nationalist and Communist forces waged coordinated resistance and guerrilla campaigns, ultimately reclaiming territory with Allied help and emerging as a victorious power.
Korean War (1950–1953): Following the UN advance toward the Yalu River, China intervened with the People’s Volunteer Army, launching a winter counteroffensive that overwhelmed U.S. forces at Chosin Reservoir. Despite poor equipment, China’s maneuver warfare, local superiority, and use of terrain led to a strategic stalemate and elevated China’s military status worldwide.
Sino-Indian War (1962): Amid global distraction from the Cuban Missile Crisis, China launched a surprise offensive across the Himalayas, seizing NEFA (Arunachal Pradesh) and Aksai Chin in weeks. Indian defenses collapsed, and China withdrew voluntarily after declaring ceasefire. The war underscored China’s high-altitude warfare capability and exposed Indian vulnerabilities.
Vietnam War Support (1960s–1970s): China sent 170,000+ troops to support North Vietnam against U.S. and South Vietnamese forces. This far exceeded Soviet ground involvement and included engineering, logistics, and air defense units. China’s role in sustaining Hanoi’s war effort was crucial.
Sino-Soviet Clashes (1969): Border skirmishes on the Ussuri River were militarily limited but politically profound. China used the crisis to signal strength, gain strategic leverage, and ultimately initiate rapprochement with the U.S. These clashes demonstrated Beijing’s geopolitical risk tolerance.
Counterinsurgency in Tibet (1950s–1970s): China waged a prolonged campaign against Tibetan rebels backed by the U.S. and India. By the early 1970s, the PLA crushed resistance, consolidating central control. The campaign reflected China’s ability to conduct long-term internal security operations in harsh terrain.
Sino-Vietnamese War (1979–1988): China invaded northern Vietnam in 1979, capturing cities like Lang Son and Cao Bang. Despite heavy casualties and mixed results, the war served Beijing’s goal of punishing Vietnam and deterring further Soviet expansionism. The conflict evolved into a decade-long border war featuring artillery duels, raids, and naval skirmishes, culminating in China’s 1988 naval victory in the Spratly Islands.
Modern Era (1990s–Present): Since the 1990s, China has avoided major conflict, focusing instead on modernization, training, and force projection. Events like the 1995–96 Taiwan Strait Crisis showcased its willingness to use limited force to defend core interests. Today, the PLA is a highly capable force, defined by patience, calculated escalation, and readiness to act decisively when necessary.
Today, China’s military is recognized not just for its doctrine and discipline, but for its ability to shape geopolitics without immediate force. If it acts in the future, it will likely do so with precision, overwhelming preparation, and deliberate timing—hallmarks of its military tradition.
General Information
Demographics and Geography
Population: ~1.408 billion (2024 est.)
Population Available for Military Service: ~385 million (males and females aged 18–49)
Geographic Area: 9,596,961 km²
Land Boundaries: 22,457 km
Bordering Countries: Afghanistan, Bhutan, India, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Vietnam
Coastline: 14,500 km
Climate: Diverse; ranges from tropical in the south to subarctic in the north
Terrain: Mountains, plateaus, deserts, plains, and river basins
Natural Resources: Coal, iron ore, petroleum, natural gas, mercury, tin, tungsten, antimony, manganese, molybdenum, vanadium, magnetite, aluminum, lead, zinc, uranium, hydropower potential (world's largest)
Proven Oil Reserves: ~25 billion barrels
Proven Natural Gas Reserves: ~5.4 trillion cubic meters
Economic Indicators
Defense Budget (2025): $293 billion USD
Defense Budget as % of GDP: ~1.5%
GDP (PPP): ~$40.716 trillion USD
GDP per Capita (PPP): ~$28,978
External Debt: ~$2.7 trillion USD
Military Expenditure Trend (last 5 years): Consistent annual increases, focusing on modernization and technological advancement
Military Infrastructure and Readiness
Military Service Obligation: No mandatory conscription; registration required at age 18; PLA is all-volunteer, though conscription laws exist
Primary Defense Focus: Territorial integrity, regional influence, modernization of forces, cyber and space capabilities
Military Industry Base: Extensive state-owned defense sector; major entities include NORINCO, AVIC, and CSIC
Cyber/Electronic Warfare Capability: Advanced; significant investment in cyber warfare units and electronic warfare systems
Nuclear Warhead Inventory: ~600 warheads (2025 est.)
Major Military Districts / Commands: Eastern, Southern, Western, Northern, and Central Theater Commands
Missile Inventory Highlights: DF-5, DF-21, DF-26, DF-31, DF-41 ICBMs; JL-2 SLBMs; CJ-10 cruise missiles
Reservist Call-up Readiness / Timeline: Reservist system in place; mobilization timelines are classified
Reservist Force Size: Estimated several million; exact figures classified
Space, Intelligence, and Strategic Infrastructure
Space or Satellite Programs: BeiDou Navigation System, reconnaissance satellites, manned and unmanned missions, lunar and Mars exploration
Military Satellite Inventory: Dozens of military satellites; includes early warning, reconnaissance, ELINT, and secure communications
Intelligence Infrastructure: Led by the Ministry of State Security (MSS); includes HUMINT, SIGINT, and cyber intelligence capabilities
Intelligence Sharing Partnerships: Limited; bilateral coordination primarily with Pakistan, Russia, and select SCO members
Airports (Total): ~240 (civilian and military)
Major Military Airports: Beijing Nanyuan, Xi'an Xianyang, Chengdu Shuangliu, Guangzhou Baiyun, Shenyang Taoxian
Naval Power and Maritime Logistics
Merchant Marine Fleet: ~4,000 ships
Major Ports: Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo-Zhoushan, Guangzhou, Qingdao, Tianjin, Dalian
Naval Infrastructure: Comprehensive; includes multiple shipyards, dry docks, and submarine bases along the eastern seaboard
Naval Replenishment Capability: Strong; operates Type 903 and Type 901 replenishment ships for sustained blue-water operations
Domestic Mobility and Infrastructure
Railway Network: ~150,000 km (including high-speed rail)
Roadways: ~5 million km
Energy and Fuel Logistics
Oil Production: ~3.8 million barrels per day
Energy Imports: Largest importer of crude oil and significant natural gas imports
Strategic Petroleum Reserves: Estimated over 500 million barrels; part of national energy security strategy
Defense Production and Strategic Forces
Domestic Defense Production: Self-reliant; produces full-spectrum weapons systems including aircraft, warships, tanks, and missiles
Military Installations (Domestic): Hundreds of bases; includes missile silos, logistics hubs, underground storage, radar stations
Military Installations (Overseas): Confirmed base in Djibouti; access agreements or infrastructure projects in Pakistan, Cambodia, Equatorial Guinea
Foreign Military Personnel Presence: Limited; Chinese forces stationed in Djibouti and under UN missions
Defense Alliances: No formal alliances; strategic ties with Russia, Pakistan, North Korea, and select SCO states
Strategic Airlift Capability: Expanding Y-20 transport fleet; developing global reach capacity
Wartime Industrial Surge Capacity: High; robust dual-use industrial base with legal frameworks for rapid conversion during wartime
Research and Industry Support
Defense R&D Investment: Significant; focus on AI, hypersonics, quantum computing, electronic warfare, and drone swarms
Key Wartime Industries Beyond Defense: Baowu Steel, CRRC (transport), CNPC/Sinopec (energy), Huawei/ZTE (tech and cyber)
Political and Administrative Structure
Capital: Beijing
Founding Date: October 1, 1949 (Proclamation of the People's Republic of China)
System of Government: Unitary Marxist–Leninist one-party socialist republic
