The Most Militarized Economies in the World Calculating the level of "militarization" can vary significantly, resulting in diverse outcomes. When considering total military expenditures, the top 3 include the USA, China, and Russia – a fairly expected ranking. Looking at military spending per capita (PPP basis), North Korea, Qatar, and Singapore emerge as leaders (an unexpected mix of countries, right?). The USA drops to seventh place, with neither Russia nor China making it to the top 10. In terms of the share of military spending in GDP, once again North Korea ranks high (a staggering 34% of GDP allocated to defense), followed by Ukraine (17% – half as much as North Korea) and Afghanistan (15%). China and the USA don't make it to the top; Russia ranks 10th by this measure, behind Saudi Arabia and Israel.

Calculating the level of "militarization" can vary significantly, resulting in diverse outcomes.

When considering total military expenditures, the top 3 include the USA, China, and Russia – a fairly expected ranking.

Looking at military spending per capita (PPP basis), North Korea, Qatar, and Singapore emerge as leaders (an unexpected mix of countries, right?). The USA drops to seventh place, with neither Russia nor China making it to the top 10.

In terms of the share of military spending in GDP, once again North Korea ranks high (a staggering 34% of GDP allocated to defense), followed by Ukraine (17% – half as much as North Korea) and Afghanistan (15%). China and the USA don't make it to the top; Russia ranks 10th by this measure, behind Saudi Arabia and Israel.