Context : India’s Military Expenditure
- In 2024, India spent $86.1 billion on its military.
- This marked a 1.6% increase from the previous year.
- India ranked as the 5th largest military spender globally.
- Its spending was almost 9 times higher than Pakistan’s.
Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security , Defence)
Pakistan’s Military Expenditure
- Pakistan’s military spending stood at $10.2 billion.
- Despite regional tensions, Pakistan’s defence budget remained far below India’s.
- Highlights the asymmetry in military capability and funding between the two nations.
Global Trends (as per SIPRI)
- Top 5 spenders: United States, China, Russia, Germany, and India — together accounting for 60% of global military spending.
- Total spending by these countries: $1,635 billion.
China’s Position
- China’s military spending reached $314 billion (7% increase).
- 30th consecutive year of increase.
- Makes up 50% of all military expenditure in Asia and Oceania.
- Focus: Military modernisation, cyberwarfare, and nuclear arsenal expansion.
Russia and Ukraine
- Russia: $149 billion (↑38% from 2023), 7.1% of GDP, 19% of government spending.
- Ukraine: $64.7 billion (↑2.9%), equivalent to 34% of GDP, the highest military burden globally.
- Reflects the sustained and escalating nature of the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
European Military Spending
- Military expenditure in Europe (incl. Russia): $693 billion (↑17%).
- Driven by the war in Ukraine and regional insecurity.
- Surpassed Cold War levels of spending.
Strategic Implications for India
- India remains focused on military parity with regional powers like China.
- Growing defence budget indicates concern over regional instability, including:
- Border tensions with China.
- Terror threats from across the Pakistan border (e.g., Pahalgam attack).
- Despite being 5th globally, India faces dual-front threats, necessitating sustained investment.
