First up, it’s the star-spangled nation that is no stranger to battle. It’s the United States of America! The U.S. spends so much on its military that its budget equals the next eight highest-spending countries’ combined.
But is money all it takes to win a war?
Our next military power is as proud as their country is cold. It’s the sinister Siberian nation, Russia! The Russians have gotten quite creative in using their naval forces. A pod of specially trained dolphins protects its Black Sea naval base. Move over, Sea World. There’s a new “World’s Most Hated Sea Attraction” in town.
Last but not least is the Eastern force with the most personnel. It’s China’s military force, the People’s Liberation Army! As one of the top manufacturing capitals, it’s no surprise they are building literal islands in the South China Sea to put military bases on them.
Let’s get down to business and see which world power would come out on top.
Round 1
When it comes to military might, size matters. But how much? We know China has over 2 million troops, but how about the other teams?
The U.S. comes next with approximately 1.4 million active soldiers and 500 good boys and girls. Russia has about 1,014,000 military personnel. (Hans, one million fourteen thousand) But this isn’t just a conflict between three countries folks. In a world war, allies matter.
The U.S. boasts many allies. With support from Germany, France, South Korea, Japan and more nations, the U.S. could easily overpower the other two countries’ armies. Russia has a few allies. But officially, China has none. So we’re giving this round to Team Popular, the U.S..
Round 2
I’ve got a need. A need for speed! Let’s see some fighter jets. The People’s Liberation Army’s Air Force has seen the biggest expansion over the last 20 years.
But even with that massive growth, China’s 2,250 aircraft are much fewer than Russia’s 4,200.
The U.S. seems to have taken a “go big or go home” tactic. It’s said that the U.S. Navy has the second largest air force on the planet, second only to the U.S. Air Force.
With over 5,200 aircraft, including fighter jets, attack helicopters and more, I think it’s fair to give this round to the Americans.
Round 3
When it comes to weapons, these three countries are the top producers of all things sharp and explosive. Russia’s military is known for its unconventional military tactics. We’ve mentioned its dolphin soldiers, but Russia has also developed new guns. Its underwater assault rifle can shoot up to 20 m (65′).
However, China is unrivaled when it comes to uncrewed aerial vehicles. Why send people into a battle when you can send machines? China has also developed the DF-41 intercontinental ballistic missile. It can attack any part of the world with 10 warheads weighing a total of 2,500 kg (5,500 lb).
But here, folks, is where the American’s massive military budget comes into play.
With a whopping $801 billion dollars to play with, let’s just say the U.S. military has everything and anything an army would want, from smart bullets that change course to follow their targets, to missile defense systems and even exoskeletons.
No, we’re not ripping these off from sci-fi films. It’s a complete knockout. Winning every round is Uncle Sam’s best friend, the United States military!
