Saudi Arabia, known for its vast oil reserves and its significance in Islam, is also emerging as a formidable military power. The Global Firepower 2025 report places Saudi Arabia at 24th globally out of 145 nations in terms of military strength. The kingdom’s recent defense agreement with Pakistan is a key indicator of its growing geopolitical influence and military assertiveness.
The defense pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan is of particular interest due to the mutual defense clause, where an attack on one is considered an attack on the other. This agreement, including the potential for Pakistan’s nuclear weapons to be utilized, has prompted significant discussion across Asia. This agreement, signed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, may alter the security balance in the Gulf and South Asia.
For many years, Saudi Arabia leaned heavily on the United States for its defense. This dependency is lessening as Saudi Arabia builds a robust military. Along with buying advanced weaponry from America and Europe, the country has increased its defense partnerships with China. This dual engagement has made Saudi Arabia an important partner for both the United States and China in the volatile geopolitical environment of Western Asia.
Saudi Arabia has a sizable active military force, with approximately 257,000 soldiers. In addition, it has a paramilitary force of 150,000. With a strong presence in the army, air force, and navy, the country is prepared to address any external threats. It’s worth noting that, despite its huge active force, Saudi Arabia has no reserve force.
The Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) leads the air force, with over a thousand aircraft. This includes top-of-the-line fighter planes like the F-15E Strike Eagles (US), Tornado IDS (UK), and Eurofighter Typhoons (Europe). The air force also has a large number of helicopters (more than 185), in addition to training and transportation aircraft. This airpower makes Saudi Arabia a formidable Middle Eastern force, able to strike its enemies from the skies.
The Saudi Arabian army is also a strong presence on the ground. Its army, with over 22,860 pieces of military equipment, is regarded as the strongest in the Gulf region. This includes US-made Abrams tanks, Pattons, and Paladins. Saudi Arabia also recently bought 177 modern M109A6 tanks from the US, while its National Guard has 156 Caesar SPH trucks. The army’s ground strength is bolstered by infantry fighting vehicles, utility vehicles, and advanced air defense systems.
Saudi Arabia’s navy is currently growing, but it already has 62 warships, including frigates, corvettes, and patrol ships. It has also ordered four Freedom-class multi-mission warships from the US. This navy is crucial for controlling the strategic waterways in the Gulf.