India Rises to Third in Global Air Force Rankings, Overtaking China

India has ascended to the position of the third most powerful air force in the world, surpassing China, according to the latest assessment by the World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA). Although the United States continues to lead globally, followed by Russia, India's ascent represents a significant shift in air power within Asia.

The WDMMA evaluates 103 countries and 129 air services, encompassing army, navy, and marine aviation divisions. The rankings take into account factors such as fleet size, combat capability, logistics, modernization, and operational training. India's air force has achieved a TruVal Rating (TVR) of 69.4 and operates a fleet of 1,716 aircraft. This fleet includes a balanced composition of fighters (31.6%), helicopters (29%), and trainers (21.8%), sourced from both the U.S. and Russia.

India's operational prowess was recently showcased during Operation Sindoor, a series of targeted strikes in May 2025 aimed at infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. This operation was conducted in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, demonstrating the Indian Air Force's precision, coordination, and strategic capability, underscoring its growing air superiority in the region.

China, which previously held the third position, now ranks fourth globally with a TVR of 58.1. Despite Beijing's ongoing fleet modernization and technology investments, aspects such as training, close-air support, and specialized bomber capabilities have impacted its ranking in comparison to India.

The United States Air Force remains at the top with a TVR of 242.9, supported by strategic bombers, multi-role fighters, transport aircraft, tankers, and special-mission platforms. Russia retains the third position, with capabilities approximately a third of those of the U.S., while India's air power exceeds that of any other nation, reinforcing its strategic influence in Asia.

Other leading air forces include U.S. Army Aviation (4th), U.S. Marine Corps Aviation (5th), the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, Israel Air Force, and France's Air and Space Force.

Experts indicate that India's improved air capabilities represent a shift in regional power dynamics, particularly in South Asia, and are expected to influence future strategic planning, defense posture, and deterrence strategies globally.