Countries in the world with the largest military submarine fleets
Submarines are a foundation of naval power, providing strategic deterrence, intelligence gathering, and offensive capabilities.
As of 2024, several countries have invested heavily in expanding and modernising their submarine fleets, reflecting their strategic priorities and geopolitical ambitions.
According to the Global Firepower Index 2024, here are 10 countries in the world with the largest fleet:
Russia: Russia leads the world with a formidable fleet of 65 submarines. This includes a mix of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs), and diesel-electric attack submarines (SSKs).
United States: The United States follows with 64 submarines. The U.S. Navy's fleet includes Ohio-class SSBNs and Virginia-class SSNs, which are known for their advanced technology and strategic importance.
China: China's People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) boasts 61 submarines. This fleet comprises both nuclear-powered and diesel-electric submarines, with ongoing developments to enhance its nuclear-powered capabilities.
North Korea: North Korea has a surprising 35 submarines. While many of these are older and smaller vessels, they still pose a significant threat in regional waters due to their sheer numbers and strategic deployment.
Japan: Japan operates a fleet of 23 submarines. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) focuses on advanced diesel-electric submarines, known for their stealth and efficiency.
South Korea: South Korea's fleet consists of 22 submarines. The Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) has been expanding its submarine capabilities, including the development of indigenous designs.
Iran: Iran maintains a fleet of 19 submarines. These include a mix of smaller, coastal submarines and a few larger vessels, reflecting Iran's strategic focus on asymmetric naval warfare.
India: India's fleet includes 18 submarines. The Indian Navy operates a combination of nuclear-powered and diesel-electric submarines, with ongoing projects to expand and modernise its underwater force.
Turkey: Turkey has 12 submarines. The Turkish Navy's fleet primarily consists of diesel-electric submarines, with plans to introduce more advanced models in the future.
Greece: Greece rounds out the top ten with 11 submarines. The Hellenic Navy's fleet is composed of modern diesel-electric submarines, emphasising regional maritime security.
