RNS: India has leapfrogged China to become the world’s third most powerful air force, according to the latest rankings by the World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA). The assessment marks a significant boost to India’s defence profile and reflects its growing aerial prowess showcased during recent operations.
As per the WDMMA’s TruVal Rating (TVR) — which evaluates not only fleet size but also combat capability, logistics, training, and modernisation — the United States retains the top spot with a TVR of 242.9, followed by Russia at 114.2. India ranks third at 69.4, while China trails closely behind at 63.8. Japan (58.1), Israel (56.3), and France (55.3) round out the top air forces globally.
India has the 3rd most powerful Air Force in the world after #US & #Russia, #China at 4th : WDMMA Rankings pic.twitter.com/9rF5i1VdYF
— News IADN (@NewsIADN) October 15, 2025
India’s Edge over China
Despite China’s larger fleet — about 3,733 aircraft compared to India’s 1,716 — the Indian Air Force (IAF) scored higher for operational balance, training, and technological integration. The IAF’s fleet composition includes 31.6% fighters, 29% helicopters, and 21.8% trainers. In contrast, over half of China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) assets are fighter jets, with fewer support and training units, giving India a more versatile air combat edge.
India currently operates a formidable mix of Rafale, Mirage 2000, Su-30MKI, MiG-29, and Tejas aircraft. The retirement of its last MiG-21 jets earlier this year closed a historic chapter, as these Soviet-era fighters served for six decades across multiple wars. Looking ahead, India plans to induct over 600 new aircraft in the next two decades, including LCA Mk1A, LCA Mk2, MRFA, and AMCA jets, underscoring its focus on self-reliance and modernization.
Operation Sindoor: Power in Action
India’s superior aerial capabilities were vividly demonstrated during Operation Sindoor, where the IAF decisively outperformed Pakistan’s Chinese-equipped forces. Despite Pakistan deploying Chinese-made J-10C fighters and HQ-9 missile systems, India’s airstrikes penetrated deep into enemy territory with precision.
Analyst Bilal Khan, founder of the Quwa Defence News & Analysis Group, noted that the Chinese air defence systems “did not perform as effectively as Pakistan had hoped.” Indian forces reportedly destroyed multiple targets, with Pakistan losing over 12 aircraft and more than 100 military personnel, according to the Indian Army’s DGMO Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai.
Strategic Shift in Asia
Defence experts say India’s rise in the WDMMA rankings reflects a strategic recalibration in Asia’s power dynamics. While China continues to pour resources into technology and fleet expansion, India’s emphasis on training, multi-role capability, and close-air support appears to have tipped the scales in its favour.
