Aircraft Carriers By Country

Last updated February 23, 2026

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A Look at Aircraft Carriers by Country

When it comes to the subject of naval power, aircraft carriers hold a top position. These massive maritime vessels act as floating airbases, capable of projecting air power anywhere in the world without the need for local landing rights. Countries are investing heavily in these titans of the seas to fortify their naval strength, safeguard their interests, and assert influence beyond their shores.

Looking at the overall global status, the United States comfortably leads the pack with 20 operational aircraft carriers—almost quadruple the number possessed by any other country. This colossal naval arsenal plays a key role in America's military doctrine of power projection across the globe.

Key findings from the data include:

  • The United States boasts the largest fleet of aircraft carriers globally, with a total of 20 operational carriers, epitomizing its status as a superpower.
  • Nations traditionally known for their navy like France, Japan, and the UK, trail behind with 4, 4, and 2 aircraft carriers, respectively.
  • Emerging powers like China and India have been steadily beefing up their naval capacities. China currently fields 3 aircraft carriers, while India operates one.
  • Countries like Egypt, South Korea, and Australia each sustain a fleet of 2 aircraft carriers, marking their growing emphasis on maritime security.
  • Smaller countries, including Thailand, Spain, and Brazil, each operate a single aircraft carrier, highlighting the prestige associated with owning such a vessel.

Aircraft Carriers By Country

Region ↕# of Aircraft Carriers 2024↕Navy Aircraft 2024↕Total Naval Assets 2024↕Submarines 2024↕
United States202,43847264
Japan429915523
France41661289
China343573061
Egypt21408
South Korea27220022
Italy21223098
United Kingdom28811710
Australia223436
Russia130378165
Spain1471683
Thailand139293
Brazil1591344
India125329418

Countries with Most Aircraft Carriers

The list below outlines the top ten countries with the most aircraft carriers. The United States overwhelmingly leads the globe with a total of 20 aircraft carriers. There is a significant decrease in the count for the following countries, with Japan and France tying for the second place, each possessing four aircraft carriers.

China has made a name for itself in the military field with a total of 3 aircraft carriers. Egypt, the United Kingdom, Italy, South Korea, and Australia all share the same number of total aircraft carriers - each boasting two under their flag. Lastly, India concludes our list with one aircraft carrier.

Countries with the Most Aircraft Carriers:

  1. United States - 20
  2. Japan - 4
  3. France - 4
  4. China - 3
  5. Egypt - 2
  6. United Kingdom - 2
  7. Italy - 2
  8. South Korea - 2
  9. Australia - 2
  10. India - 1
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