List of World's Top Ten Arms Exporters

The United States maintained its dominant position as the world’s largest arms exporter during the 2021/25 period, accounting for 42% of total global weapons exports, according to newly compiled international defense data based on figures from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and Reuters.

Percentage of total global arms exports:

USA 42%

France 9.8%

Russia 6.8%

Germany 5.7%

China 5.6%

Italy 5.1%

Israel 4.4%

UK 3.4%

South Korea 3.0%

Spain 2.3%

The latest assessment highlights widening disparities in global defense manufacturing while underscoring how geopolitical tensions, particularly the war in Ukraine, continue to reshape international arms trade flows.

France ranked as the world’s second-largest arms exporter, capturing 9.8% of global exports, followed by Russia with 6.8%, despite ongoing sanctions and shifting defense alliances affecting its export capacity.

Germany and China held closely matched positions, contributing 5.7% and 5.6% respectively to global arms sales. Italy followed with 5.1%, reinforcing Europe’s strong presence among the world’s leading defense suppliers.

Israel accounted for 4.4% of global exports, reflecting sustained demand for advanced defense technologies, while the United Kingdom secured 3.4% of the global market.

South Korea continued its rapid ascent as an emerging defense exporter, reaching 3.0%, supported by competitive pricing and expanding partnerships in Asia and Eastern Europe. Spain completed the top exporters list with 2.3%.

While Europe remains home to several major defense manufacturers, it simultaneously emerged as the largest arms-importing region globally, representing 33% of worldwide weapons imports during the same period.

Analysts attribute the surge primarily to heightened security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which triggered a wave of military modernization programs and emergency procurement across European NATO members.

The conflict has accelerated defense spending commitments, reshaped procurement priorities, and strengthened transatlantic defense ties, particularly benefiting U.S. manufacturers.

The evolving arms trade landscape reflects a broader shift toward regional security realignments. Countries are increasingly prioritizing supply reliability, interoperability with allies, and rapid delivery capabilities amid rising geopolitical uncertainty.