Saudi Arabia, a nation often associated with oil and the holy sites of Islam, is rapidly evolving beyond these traditional identifiers. According to the Global Firepower 2025 report, Saudi Arabia holds the 24th position out of 145 military powers worldwide, signifying its growing prominence in military strength alongside its oil reserves. Recent developments, including a crucial defense agreement with Pakistan, highlight Saudi Arabia’s increasing strategic importance.
The defense pact with Pakistan, which includes a clause stating that an attack on either nation will be considered an attack on both, has sent ripples across Asia. The agreement’s openness to the potential use of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons has further amplified its significance. This deal between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is seen as a pivotal move, likely to reshape the security dynamics of the Gulf and South Asia.
For decades, Saudi Arabia’s security was largely reliant on the United States. However, this is changing as the nation builds its own robust military and acquires advanced weaponry. Alongside fighter jets and tanks purchased from the US and Europe, Saudi Arabia has significantly expanded its defense cooperation with China. This has positioned the country as a key partner for both the US and China in the geopolitical landscape of West Asia.
Saudi Arabia boasts a substantial military force, with approximately 257,000 active soldiers and an additional 150,000 paramilitary personnel. Its military branches, including the army, air force, and navy, are well-equipped, ready to deal with any external threats. Notably, despite this large active force, Saudi Arabia does not maintain a reserve force, indicating its continuous operational readiness.
The Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) is a dominant force, with over a thousand aircraft, including advanced F-15E Strike Eagles, UK-made Tornado IDS, and European Eurofighter Typhoons. The air force also has a substantial fleet of over 185 helicopters. This aerial prowess has positioned Saudi Arabia as a formidable force in the Middle East, capable of quickly overpowering adversaries from the air.
On the ground, Saudi Arabia’s army possesses a formidable presence, considered the strongest in the Gulf region, with over 22,860 pieces of military hardware. Its arsenal includes US-made Abrams tanks, Pattons, and Paladins. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has ordered 177 modern M109A6 tanks from the US, while its National Guard already operates 156 Caesar SPH trucks. Infantry fighting vehicles, utility vehicles, and advanced air defense systems further strengthen this ground force.
Though Saudi Arabia’s navy is still developing, it currently operates 62 warships, including frigates, corvettes, and patrol ships. The country has also ordered four Freedom-class multi-mission warships from the US. This navy plays a vital role in maintaining control over strategic waterways in the Gulf.
