The world is getting more armed! These are the countries that have increased military spending the most during 2024

In 2024, global military spending reached its highest level ever recorded, with a 9.4% increase compared to the previous year, reaching $2.718 trillion. This is the fastest rate of increase since 1988, the year before the Berlin Wall fell, according to the latest report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

According to the report, this increase reflects the direct impact of major conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and Gaza, but also increased tensions in other regions such as Europe and Asia. “Many countries have already pledged to further increase their defense budgets, which will further accelerate the global arms race,” the report said.

The United States remains the world’s top military spender, with a budget approaching $1 trillion. Major investments include F-35 fighter jets and their systems ($61.1 billion), new ships for the Navy ($48.1 billion), nuclear arsenal modernization ($37.7 billion), and missile defense ($29.8 billion). Aid to Ukraine was $48.4 billion—nearly 75% of Ukraine’s own defense budget.

China ranks second with a military budget of $314 billion, representing about a third of US spending. SIPRI notes that China has continued to rapidly expand its nuclear arsenal and has introduced new assets such as stealth aircraft and remotely piloted vehicles.

Countries involved in or threatened by regional conflicts have seen the biggest increases. Israel has increased spending by 65% ​​since its offensive in Gaza. Russia has increased its budget by at least 38%, although SIPRI suspects the real figure is higher. NATO member states have responded with significant budget increases: Germany (28%), Romania (43%), Sweden (34%) and Poland (31%) are just a few.

In Asia, China marked its 30th consecutive year of increased spending, while Japan had its biggest increase since 1952 (21%). The Philippines (19%) and Taiwan (1.8%) followed the same trend, while Myanmar increased spending by 66%, carrying the largest military burden in the region at 6.8% of GDP.

In Latin America, Mexico has seen a significant increase of 39%, reflecting the growing embrace of a more militarized strategy against organized crime.

SIPRI warns that the continued increase in military spending worldwide, especially in regions of high tension, could lead to an increasingly dangerous and uncontrolled arms race. (A2 Televizion)