Europe's Largest Military Is Bigger Than France, Germany, and the UK's Combined

"Europe has long been known for its military history, partly because it was the site of the largest war the world has ever seen. Since then, Europe's defense landscape has changed into a mix of NATO allies and nations with some of the strongest militaries globally. Here, 24/7 Wall St. looks at the largest military forces in Europe. Right now, Europe's military strength is even more important due to changes in U.S. foreign policy."

"With the United States focusing more on Asia and reducing involvement in European defense, European countries must take greater responsibility for their own security. Ongoing conflicts, like the war in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East, and rising global rivalries have made stronger militaries essential for European stability. As a result, many European nations are investing more in their militaries and working closely together. NATO countries, in particular, have increased spending to fill the gaps created by reduced U.S. support."

"To determine the countries with the largest military forces in Europe, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed Military Strength Ranking from Global Firepower, an annually updated defense-related statistics website covering 145 countries. Global Firepower ranks these countries by their PowerIndex, which considers over 60 factors, including military size, finances, logistics, and geography. Countries were ranked according to their total military personnel. A smaller PowerIndex indicates greater military strength. We included additional information on active personnel, aircraft, vehicles, and naval power. Russia is not included in this list."

European military importance has risen as the United States shifts focus toward Asia and reduces involvement in European defense. Ongoing conflicts such as the war in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East, and growing global rivalries are driving European nations to strengthen their forces. Many countries are increasing defense spending and enhancing cooperation, with NATO members boosting budgets to address gaps from decreased U.S. support. Military capabilities are evaluated using Global Firepower's PowerIndex, which weighs over 60 factors. Rankings prioritize total military personnel and include data on active personnel, aircraft, vehicles, and naval power, excluding Russia.

Read at 24/7 Wall St.