Which countries have the largest submarine fleet?

Fleet of submarines

In 2025 Underwater Armed Forces The number of submarines in each country reflects their strategical priorities and military ambitions. Here is an overview of the largest submarine fleets according to data from GlobalFirepower.

Submarine ships are not only offensive weapons, but besides a pillar of modern deterrence strategy. They can work unnoticed for weeks, and their presence in a given area can completely alter the dynamics of the conflict. Especially nuclear-powered ships and ballistic missiles (the SSBN) are part of a atomic triad – a strategy that guarantees an atomic consequence even in the case of the first impact.

Top 10 countries with the highest number of submarines (2025)

The largest submarine fleet in the world; Development of interesting statistics.pl based on data globalfirepower.com

United States – 70 submarines

With 70 submarines, the US is an undisputed leader. It has both impact ships (SSN) and strategical SSBN with rockets Trident II. The latest units include class ships Virginia and powerful Ohio, as a platform for atomic deterrence. Americans besides invest in unmanned submarines and cyber defence.

Russia – 63 submarines

Russia has 63 submarines, many of which are russian heritage, but the fleet undergoes modernization. Class ships deserve attention Borei (SSBN) and Yasen (SSN/SSGN). Moscow besides focuses on innovation, specified as Poseidon – an autonomous torpedo atomic drone.

China – 61 submarines

With 61 ships, the Chinese fleet catches up with the world's leading. Chinese build their own types of units, e.g. classes Jin and Yuan, and plan to extend the scope of action to the full Indo-Pacific. Their ambitions extend beyond Taiwan and the South China Sea.

The Chinese submarine includes both atomic and diesel propulsion units. Despite intense modernisation efforts, China continues to face technological challenges, as confirmed by the sinking incidental of the fresh atomic vessel in 2024.

Iran – 25 submarines

Although this may surprise you, Iran has as many as 25 submarines, making it a regional leader in the Persian Gulf. Most of them are tiny units of kind Ghadircapable of action in shallow waters. They are perfect for asymmetric operations, specified as mines or amazing attacks on enemy ships. Iran is constantly developing its capabilities in the field of underwater combat despite sanctions and technological constraints.

Japan – 24 submarines

With 24 units, Japan has 1 of the most modern submarines in the world. Ships of kind Soryu and the latest Taigei are equipped with an AIP and advanced electronics. The nipponese strategy is based on defending islands and maritime routes, making the submarine a key component of the country's defence.

South Korea – 22 submarines

With 22 ships, South Korea actively invests in fresh technologies. Class ships KSS-III are designed for ballistic missiles and opportunities to operate outside the region. The Korean fleet is gaining importance in the context of tensions with North Korea and the expansion of China.

India – 18 submarines

India has 18 units, including the first native atomic ships of the kind Arihant. India's submarine is simply a key component of atomic deterrence in the region, especially in the context of its rivalry with China and Pakistan. India plans to importantly grow its fleet and make its own technologies.

North Korea – 13 submarines

North Korea has a fleet of mostly older diesel and electrical ships, which, despite technological limitations, are an essential part of its asymmetric strategy.

Turkey – 13 submarines

The Turkish fleet consists of class ships Gür, Preveze and Ay, with plans to introduce modern class units Reis, equipped with AIP systems, enhancing operational capacity.

Greece – 10 submarines

The Greek submarine is mainly class diesel-electric ships Papanicolis, equipped with AIP systems, providing long-term underwater operations in the Aegean region.

What do these numbers mean?

Number of submarines In a given country, it reflects not only its military capabilities but besides its strategical priorities and geopolitical ambitions. The United States and Russia keep dominance through advanced technology and global presence. China is intensifying modernisation efforts, although they face technological challenges. Countries specified as Iran and North Korea focus on asymmetrical strategies, utilizing smaller units to defend regionally.

Polish submarine fleet against a global background

Poland presently has only 1 submarine – Eagle ORP 1986. This is the last bastion of our submarine. After the PRL we had 2 more Soviets Foxtrotsbut their time passed with the end of the era. In the NATO era, they were replaced by 4 deployed Cobbenami from Norway. These besides had a pension – the last 1 left the deck in 2021. So all we have left is Eagle Alone in the depths. Discussions are ongoing on the acquisition of fresh units under the Orka programme, with the possible participation of Norway, Sweden and France. For Poland it is crucial to increase operational capacity in the Baltic.

Number of submarines in the world:

• United States 70
• Russia 63
• China 61
• Iran 25
• Japan 24
• South Korea 22
• India 18
• North Korea 13
• Turkey 13
• Greece 10
• France 9
• United Kingdom 9
• Vietnam 9
• Egypt 8
• Italy 8
• Pakistan 8
• Algeria 6
• Australia 6
• Germany 6
• Norway 6
• Singapore 6
• Israel 5
• Azerbaijan 4
• Brazil 4
• Canada 4
• Chile 4
• Colombia 4
• Indonesia 4
• Peru 4
• Sweden 4
• Taiwan 4
• Myanmar 3
• Netherlands 3
• South Africa 3
• Argentina 2
• Bangladesh 2
• Ecuador 2
• Malaysia 2
• Portugal 2
• Spain 2
• Poland 1
• Venezuela 1

Submarine is simply a key component of the modern armed forces. Whether they service as atomic deterrence, espionage or precision attacks, they stay 1 of the most mysterious but strategical tools of war. From year to year, they become quieter, more advanced and harder to detect.