SWITZERLAND
The Swiss Armed Forces are a well-trained and disciplined military service. It is composed of both professional and volunteer soldiers. The volunteers are aged 19 to 34 and can choose to serve for one to three years. In total, there are around 21,000 people in the armed forces.
As a landlocked nation, there's a limited need for naval vessels. However, the combatants have long been involved in peacekeeping missions and humanitarian activities worldwide due to their long-standing neutrality. Want to know how a Swiss Army Knife came about? It was invented by a soldier looking for ways to make his life easier in the military.
NORWAY
The Norwegian Armed Forces consist of five branches: the Royal Navy, the Army, the Home Guard, the Royal Air Force, and the Norwegian Cyber Defense force. Together they have active duty personnel of 265,000, plus 46,000 in the reserve.
What sets them apart from other countries is the fact that its personnel is all volunteers. This means that the military troops have the most dedicated personnel, who are willing to put their lives on the line to protect their country. On top of all that, they are also known for their rigorous training program, designed to prepare their personnel for the challenges.
AUSTRALIA
The Australian Defense Force, comprising the Royal Navy, Army, and Air Force, is the official representative of the Australian Commonwealth. It comprises more than 85,000 personnel, 58,000 active soldiers, 52 ships, 59 tanks, and 408 aircraft. It is a testament to the nation's commitment to its military strength, as the country provides significant resources to ensure its forces are adequately equipped.
This army is also known for its high level of innovation. They've recently developed a new type of stealth submarine, which is incredibly hard to detect in the water. With their innovative technology and hilarious traditions, they are truly in a league of their own!
THAILAND
Known to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, the Royal Thai Armed Forces have a long-standing tradition of defending the nation and its people. The Commander in Chief of the troop is the King of Thailand, although the Minister of Defense is responsible for the day-to-day command of the unit. They have 81 ships in the region, making them a formidable force.
Additionally, this military is known for its unique training techniques that involve martial arts, such as Muay Thai. Every 18th of January, the victory of King Naresuan the Great in the battle against the Viceroy of Burma in 1593 is commemorated.
MEXICO
The Mexican Armed Forces are composed of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with a total of over 352,000 active personnel and 99,000 reserves. These forces have played an essential role in the nation's growth through their service.
They also have a strong presence in disaster relief efforts, assisting in areas affected by natural disasters. Additionally, they are actively engaged in international peacekeeping missions in countries such as Haiti. All in all, this troop is a unique and powerful institution that sets them apart from other countries in the world. If only these troops could teach us how to make the best tacos, they'd be the best companion!
PERU
The Peruvian military comprises the Army, Navy, and Air Force representing the nation's ideals of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. The 120,000 active members are bolstered by a reserve of 386,000 personnel as of 2019.
The troop is also known for its modernization and technology. They have invested heavily in modernizing their military systems and weaponry, including the introduction of more advanced systems such as the MiG-29 fighter jets. One unique thing about the Peruvian Armed Forces is they have a strong presence in the Amazon Rainforest. Having a large jungle warfare school and training enables them to be prepared for any hostile activity in the region.
THE NETHERLANDS
The Netherlands Armed Forces comprise four services: the Royal Army, Air Force, Navy, and the Marechaussee. This country, though small in size, has committed large amounts of money to fund its military needs at around $13.7 billion a year. The results are evident in the quality of its aircraft and other military equipment.
The Dutch troops belong to one of the oldest in the world, established in 1572. They are participating in the international coalition against the terrorist group ISIS in Syria and Iraq. They have also been active in the fight against terrorism, participating in various international operations.
TAIWAN
Taiwan is aware of its proximity to China and acts accordingly to maintain a strong military. It has an estimated 300,000 active personnel and over 1.6 million reserves. The army is divided into frontline and backline combat and support services, with infantry divisions and airborne and special operations commands. This shows their commitment to ensuring their armed forces remain capable of meeting any threat from China.
Taiwan's armed forces are also well-equipped with modern technology and weaponry. They have an extensive stockpile of advanced missiles, artillery, and other advanced weapons. It also has a strong network of military bases, allowing them to respond quickly to any potential threats.
MALAYSIA
Established in 1933, Malaysia has large personnel, comprising the Royal Malaysian Air Force, Navy, and Army. In February 2021, they have 113,000 active soldiers and 52,000 are in reserve. The country has a wide range of armaments, including tanks and rocket launchers. The King of Malaysia is the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces.
The army is one of the most powerful in the region, and it's no wonder they are equipped with an impressive array of firepower, including tanks, artillery, and jet fighters! Soldiers are also responsible for protecting the country's rich natural resources, like its vast jungles, coral reefs, and wildlife.
THE CZECH REPUBLIC
The Czech Republic's Armed Forces are composed of the troops, the Military Office of the President of the Republic, and the Castle Guard. The President of the Republic is the ultimate commander, but the country only has 27K active and 4,000 reserve personnel. Those who wish to volunteer must either have already completed their compulsory military service or attend a six-week training program.
In May 2022, the Czech Ministry of Defense announced it would acquire 15 Leopard 2A4 tanks from Germany in exchange for Czech tanks that were to be given to Ukraine to assist in the defense against the Russian invasion.
MYANMAR
The Tatmadaw is the official name of Myanmar's military. The Ministry of Defense consists of the army, navy, and air force. It also includes various auxiliary forces such as the border guard, police, coast guard, and people's militia with 406,000 active soldiers. All reports are sent to the National Defense and Security Council, headed by the country's president.
The army has been a key participant in the country's fight against insurgent groups since 1948 and has garnered the status of being a tough and capable military force. In 1981, it was even referred to as "probably the best army in Southeast Asia, apart from Vietnam's."
UKRAINE
The Armed Forces of Ukraine commonly referred to as ZSU is the military group of the country. The President of Ukraine holds command over all military and security troops, including the Armed Forces, while they are also subject to oversight by a permanent Verkhovna Rada parliamentary commission.
In 2022, there are 700,000 active personnel and one million in reserve. In an act of aggression on February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, reigniting the Russo-Ukrainian War, which had been ongoing since 2014. By June of the same year, eight million Ukrainians had been internally displaced, and by February 2023, this number had risen to more than 16 million.
SWEDEN
The Swedish Armed Forces, referred to as Försvarsmakten, is the government agency in charge of the defense of Sweden. It is made up of the Swedish Army, Air Force, Navy, and the Home Guard, a military reserve force. In addition, the soldiers also work to promote the country's interests abroad, support international peacekeeping, and provide humanitarian aid.
As of 2022, the Swedish Armed Forces is composed of 23,600 active personnel, 11,200 military reserves, 24,000 Home Guard, and 5,200 conscripts annually that are added to the reserves. This number is expected to rise to 8,000 conscripts per year by 2024.
GREECE
The Greek Armed Forces, comprised of the Hellenic Army, Navy, and Air Force, are under the management of the Ministry of National Defense. All male citizens in Greece aged 18 and over are required by law to serve for nine to twelve months. Women may choose to serve in the military but are not required to do so.
Greece has a total of 231,000 reserve military personnel and 142,700 active members, and 11 submarines are kept in a state of readiness to protect the nation's coastline. The navy is equipped with a modern fleet of strike units including frigates, gunboats, submarines, and fast-attack guided-missile vessels.
SPAIN
Spain's armed forces serve to protect the nation's independence and constitutional order. The Army, Air and Space Force, Royal Guard, Common Corps, and Emergency Unit all have specific roles as outlined in the 1978 Constitution. Preserving the country's sovereignty, the armed forces remain a proud symbol of patriotism.
In 2017, the Spanish soldiers had a total of 121,900 active personnel and 4,770 reserve personnel. Spain is a major military force in both the European Union (EUFOR) and Eurocorps and has been a member of NATO since 1982. It boasts the oldest Marine Infantry and permanent military units in the world, making it one of the most powerful nations.
CANADA
The Navy, Army, and Air Force are the unified military personnel of Canada, known collectively as the Canadian Armed Forces. These include sea, land, and air elements. The full-dress uniform consists of a scarlet tunic and midnight blue trousers with a scarlet trouser stripe.
The army is comprised of 68,000 active personnel and 27,000 reserve personnel, including 5,000 Canadian Rangers. Over 3,000 members of the armed forces are deployed in multiple combats such as Operation "Snowgoose" in Cyprus, "Unifier" in Ukraine, "Caribbe" in the Caribbean Sea, and "Impact" as part of military action and defense against ISIL.
ALGERIA
The Algerian People’s National Army is defending the nation against outside threats and protecting its sovereignty. They are well-equipped and have a wide array of different systems and armaments. It is well-trained and highly capable and has a wide range of ground, air, and naval forces. It is an important factor in maintaining regional stability and security.
The Algerian army has a domestic military industry that manufactures AK-47 and AKM-47 assault rifles, licensed from Russia and China, and rocket-type RPGs from the construction company Mechanical Khenchela. France has been a long-standing weapons supplier for Algeria, with ties going back to the French Algeria colonial era.
SAUDI ARABIA
The Royal Saudi Armed Forces are known for their quick response to any threat and their commitment to defending the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its allies. They have participated in several campaigns and peacekeeping operations worldwide, including in Iraq and Yemen.
This army is ranked among the world's best-funded, with the sixth-largest defense budget globally. With 480,000 personnel on active duty, the country is the tenth largest in terms of the number of operating forces. In 2019, the government announced that women were now permitted to serve in the military, whereas previously they were only allowed to work in police roles.
NORTH KOREA
The North Korean military, officially known as the Korean People's Army, is led by the Worker's Party of Korea (WPK) General Secretary Kim Jong-un, who serves as Supreme Commander and chairman of the WPK Central Military Commission.
The country has tested missiles ranging from short to intercontinental range and submarine-launched ballistic missiles. Experts estimate that the nation's nuclear weapon arsenal may consist of between fifteen and twenty warheads which makes them a strong army. On September 3, 2017, the North Korean leadership declared a terrifying announcement that it had detonated its first hydrogen bomb, which it claimed was part of a nuclear test.
IRAN
The military troops of Iran, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Iran Armed Forces, is the largest in the Middle East with 610,000 active-duty soldiers and 350,000 reserves and trained combatants, totaling 960,000 personnel. The General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces is in command of all branches of the armed groups.
Reports indicate that Iran is one of the five nations with a cyber army capable of conducting cyber warfare operations. Iran is said to have significantly increased its cyber warfare capability since the post-presidential election unrest. In early 2010, two new garrisons for cyberwarfare were reportedly established in Zanjan and Isfahan.
POLAND
The Republic of Poland's Armed Forces is the country's defense force. Poland was one of the nine NATO member states keeping their military spending above 2% of their annual GDP. In response to the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the country has announced plans to spend US$30.7 billion in 2023. The troops are equipped with some of the most advanced weapons and technology in the world. This includes state-of-the-art tanks, planes, ships, and artillery.
The long-term modernization program will acquire approximately 1,200 unmanned aerial vehicles, of which at least 1,000 will have combat capabilities, which is a major feature.
BRAZIL
The armed troops of Brazil stand as the second largest in the Americas after the United States, and the largest in Latin America and the Southern Hemisphere in terms of military equipment. This includes a total of 334,500 active-duty troops and officers. Women are currently only permitted to serve in the Navy and Air Force through the Women's Reserve Corps.
Messing with the Brazilian Armed Forces is a big no-no. Not only are they a formidable army to be reckoned with, but they are also highly trained professionals who take their job seriously. So if you value your life and freedom, it's best to leave them alone.
VIETNAM
The Vietnam People's Army is the official military of Vietnam. In 2016, President Barack Obama announced the end of the lethal weapons embargo on Vietnam, opening up the possibility of the country purchasing military equipment from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other Western countries.
They are well-trained and highly experienced in both conventional and guerilla warfare, making them a formidable force. Provoking them is a bad idea for many reasons, including the fact that they could be armed to the teeth and ready to fight back. So, unless you want to end up in a war zone, staying away from the People's Army of Vietnam is probably best.
INDONESIA
The President of Indonesia serves as the commander-in-chief of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, which comprises roughly 395,500 military personnel, including the Indonesian Marine Corps, Army, Navy, and Air Force. Under the 1945 Constitution, all citizens are both legally obligated and entitled to defend the nation.
The Indonesian army is the largest defense troop in Southeast Asia and has the world's most significant number of female military personnel. They are highly trained professionals and are well-equipped to protect the nation. This is the only combatant team in the world that does not accept conscripts. It is wise to stay on their good side by not provoking them.
PAKISTAN
The Pakistan Armed Forces, which consist of six branches and boast a total of active personnel, are the sixth-largest military in the world. The army is highly trained and equipped with a vast array of weaponry. Several constitutionally-sanctioned paramilitary formations also support them. Established in 1947, the armed forces have grown to become one of the most powerful in the Middle East. Global Firepower ranks the army of Pakistan as the world's ninth most potent.
The country is a nuclear-armed nation and any provocation could lead to a full-scale conflict. This would be disastrous for the region and could have long-lasting implications for the entire world.
SOUTH KOREA
The Republic of Korea Armed Forces is one of the most influential and important military forces in the world. Boasting a strong 500,000 active personnel and 3,100,000 reserve members, it is the sixth most powerful in terms of size and weaponry. Now, that's quite a challenge before waging war against them.
The military personnel was founded in 1948 and the Korean Liberation Army was established. In addition to its impressive capabilities, South Korea is such a great package for being home to some of the most handsome actors such as Lee Min Ho, Park Seo Joon, and Song Joong Ki who were also required to enlist.
ITALY
Italy is tenth out of 145 countries ranked in the Global Firepower (GFP) annual review. Since the end of World War II, the Italian armed forces have become increasingly involved in international peace support operations, mainly under the auspices of the United Nations. They are participating in 26 missions in 21 countries around the globe.
It has the world's fourth-largest military force, and the largest in the European Union. Whether it's the Italian Army, Navy, Air Force, Carabinieri, or Esercito Territoriale, these soldiers are trained to take down enemies. They have a reputation for being some of the toughest military members in Europe.
EGYPT
The Egyptian Armed Forces are equipped with modern hardware, including tanks, aircraft, ships, and artillery. They have a strong air force and navy, as well as a large number of special powers. The army has been involved in several major wars, including the Yom Kippur War.
Egypt was ranked 14th out of 145 countries evaluated in the GFP review for 2023, with a PwrIndx score of 0.2224. Egypt is the only Arab state in the Middle East with a reconnaissance satellite, having launched EgyptSat 1 in 2007. Additionally, it is one of the few countries in the region with such a satellite.
GERMANY
The armed forces of the Federal Republic of Germany are known as the Bundeswehr, literally meaning "Federal Defense." In the annual Global Firepower review of 145 countries, Germany is ranked 25th for the year 2023.
The Bundeswehr is one of the world's most advanced militaries and is well-equipped with the latest technology and weapons. Germany spends 1.2% of its GDP on defense and has a total of around 183,000 personnel serving in its forces. The military force has various capabilities, including infantry, armor, helicopters, and fighter aircraft. Germany also has a large number of tanks and armored personnel carriers, as well as a large number of artillery pieces.
TURKEY
Turkey has seen significant growth in its defense capabilities over the past year, moving up two spots to 11th place in the 2023 Global Fire Power Military Strength Rankings. This makes it the most powerful army in the Middle East and North Africa region.
The army is a formidable force, boasting the second-largest standing military in the NATO alliance. Boasting a highly trained and well-equipped force, the Turkish Armed Forces are well-prepared for any engagement. No matter the situation, they strive to maintain their strength. With a combination of power and lightheartedness, they are sure to be a force to be reckoned with for years to come.
JAPAN
The Self-Defense Forces of Japan, officially known as the Japanese Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and also referred to as the Japanese Armed Forces, are unified military personnel under the nation's command. Japan was ranked eighth out of 145 countries in the Global Firepower review for the year 2023.
The JSDF has a total strength of about 247,400 personnel, which is relatively small compared to other major military powers. However, the JSDF has some of the most advanced and best-trained armies in the world. They are well-equipped with high-tech weapons and equipment, making them a formidable force, and also have a strong reputation for their professionalism and discipline.
THE UNITED KINGDOM
From a technological standpoint, the British Armed Forces are armed with some of the most advanced military hardware in the world. The Royal Navy is outfitted with some of the most advanced warships, with a range of capabilities that include anti-air, anti-ship, and anti-submarine warfare. They are equipped with the latest in cutting-edge technology and weaponry, and one of the largest arsenals of nuclear weapons in the world. The annual GFP review ranks the United Kingdom fifth out of 145 countries considered.
The army has a long and distinguished history of defending the United Kingdom and its interests around the world. The British Armed Forces have a long-standing tradition of excellence and integrity, and they are respected by their allies and feared by their enemies.
INDIA
The Indian Armed Forces are the world's second-largest military force, boasting the world's largest volunteer army and the third-largest defense budget. According to the Global Firepower Index report, India is the fourth most-powerful defense.
For thousands of years, the country's military history has been an integral part of its culture. The Indian Armed Forces are highly respected for their professionalism, their commitment to the nation, and their impressive soldier strength. They have a wide range of weapons, including tanks, fighter jets, ships, artillery, and missiles. They are also well known for their innovative use of technology, such as the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and satellites.
CHINA
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is the largest military force in the world with over 2 million active personnel and has the second-largest defense budget worldwide. It is undergoing rapid modernization and has been labeled a potential army superpower with strong regional defense capabilities and an increasing ability to project power globally.
The PLA's defense strength is nothing to joke about. It's one of the most powerful militaries in the world, boasting advanced technology, sophisticated weapons systems, and an expanding naval presence. The PLA's strength is not only a source of pride for the people of China but a reminder of the importance of peace and stability in the region.