India has emerged as the fifth-largest defence spender globally in 2025, according to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. The country’s military expenditure reached $92.1 billion, accounting for 3.2% of global defence spending, placing it behind the United States, China, Russia, and Germany.
India’s defence spending increased by 8.9% compared to the previous year, reflecting a strong focus on military modernisation, border security, and operational readiness. The rise has been linked to emergency procurements and investments in advanced systems, including aircraft and combat technologies, amid ongoing regional tensions.
In comparison, Pakistan spent $11.9 billion on defence, ranking 31st globally. Despite an increase in its military budget, India’s expenditure remains significantly higher, highlighting the strategic gap between the two nations.
Globally, military spending reached a record $2.887 trillion in 2025, driven largely by geopolitical conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine War. Meanwhile, India is also diversifying its defence imports, reducing reliance on traditional suppliers and strengthening partnerships with countries like France, Israel, and the United States.
The report underscores India’s growing role in global security dynamics and its continued push towards strengthening defence capabilities.
