Global military spending reached nearly $2,900 billion in 2025, according to a report published on Monday, April 27, by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). This marks the eleventh consecutive year of increase, amidst persistent conflicts and heightened geopolitical tensions, as reported by BFM. Unsurprisingly, the United States, China, and Russia dominate the rankings by a large margin. Together, they account for over half of the global military expenditures, approximately $1,480 billion.
As the leading global military power, the United States remains the country that spends the most on defense, with $954 billion in 2025. However, this represents a 7.5% decrease from the previous year. This decline can be attributed to the absence of massive military aid to Ukraine, unlike in previous years. But this decrease may be temporary: the U.S. defense budget could surpass $1,000 billion by 2026 and even reach $1,500 billion in 2027 if Donald Trump’s budget proposal is adopted.
Europe significantly increases its spending
The primary driver of the global increase now comes from Europe, where military expenditures have increased by 14% to reach $864 billion. The war in Ukraine and the gradual disengagement of the United States are pushing European countries to strengthen their strategic autonomy. This trend is exemplified by Germany, which saw a 24% increase, bringing its defense budget to $114 billion.
On the other hand, France ranks ninth globally with $68 billion in military spending, showing significant growth. Spain has also increased its spending significantly, by 50%, exceeding 2% of the GDP dedicated to defense for the first time since 1994. Russia allocated approximately $190 billion to its defense efforts in 2025, representing 7.5% of its GDP, an increase of 5.9%. Ukraine, on the other hand, shows even more significant growth with $84.1 billion in expenses, nearly 40% of its GDP.
Asia and China continue to rise
In Asia-Pacific, military spending reached $681 billion, an 8.5% increase from the previous year, the highest growth rate in over a decade. China confirms its position as the second-largest military power globally with about $336 billion in expenditures in 2025. Beijing has been increasing its military budgets every year for three decades, solidifying its strategic influence in the region.
Overall, the global “military burden” – the share of wealth allocated to defense – has reached its highest level since 2009. According to SIPRI researchers, this trend reflects a growing global sense of insecurity. “Everything indicates that the world feels less secure and is thinking more about its armed forces,” summarizes one of the experts in the report, highlighting a lasting dynamic fueled by conflicts and international tensions.
