The Indian Air Force (IAF) has achieved a major global milestone by overtaking China to become the third most powerful air force in the world, according to the World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA) 2025 rankings. The United States Air Force continues to hold the top position, followed by Russia in second place. China’s air force, previously ranked third, has now slipped to fourth place (India TV News).
How the Rankings Work
The WDMMA rankings are based on the “TruValue Rating (TVR),” which evaluates air forces not just by the number of aircraft but also by quality, readiness, and modernization. The parameters include combat efficiency, operational capability, logistics, and technological sophistication.
In the latest assessment, the IAF achieved a TVR of 69.4, surpassing China’s 63.8. Meanwhile, the U.S. Air Force leads with a commanding 242.9, and Russia stands at 114.2. This marks a major achievement for India, as the IAF’s modernization and balanced force structure have propelled it ahead of one of the world’s largest air arms (India Strategic).
Why India Moved Ahead of China
Several factors contributed to India’s rise in global air power rankings:
- Modernization Drive – The induction of advanced fighter jets like the Rafale, upgrades to the Su-30MKI fleet, and the progress of indigenous aircraft such as the HAL Tejas have improved India’s combat readiness.
- Balanced Fleet Composition – The IAF’s blend of multirole fighters, transport aircraft, drones, and aerial refuellers provides flexibility and rapid response capability unmatched in the region.
- Enhanced Training and Strategy – India’s consistent focus on high-level training exercises, including international collaborations, has significantly improved pilot efficiency and strategic planning.
- Technological Integration – The development of advanced radar systems, improved surveillance, and digital warfare readiness have boosted India’s defensive and offensive strength (Bharat Articles).
Strategic Implications
The IAF’s new global position strengthens India’s strategic deterrence in South Asia. It also enhances its influence in regional security partnerships such as QUAD and joint military drills with allies.
For China, slipping to fourth place serves as a wake-up call. Despite having a larger fleet, the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) faces challenges in operational efficiency, integration of new technologies, and pilot training programs.
Globally, this reshuffle also underscores a trend where technological quality and readiness now matter more than raw fleet size. Nations investing in modernization and digital warfare are likely to outperform those focusing solely on expansion.
Global Recognition and Response
The WDMMA report highlights that India’s steady modernization is gaining attention worldwide. Even countries like the United Kingdom are collaborating with Indian pilots for advanced combat training programs. According to The Times (UK), Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots will soon train alongside Indian “Top Guns,” marking a new level of defense cooperation between the two nations (The Times).
Meanwhile, Indian media outlets celebrated the ranking as a moment of national pride. Navbharat Times noted that India is now the only Asian nation in the top three, with China relegated to fourth and Pakistan failing to make the top ten (Navbharat Times).
The Road Ahead
While this achievement is commendable, defense analysts stress the need for India to sustain momentum. Challenges such as indigenizing aircraft production, strengthening drone warfare capabilities, and expanding air defense networks remain priorities for maintaining the lead.
As air combat evolves into domains like AI-assisted targeting, cyber defense, and space-based coordination, India’s ability to adapt will determine how long it retains its edge. The IAF’s success story is not just about ranking — it’s about proving that strategic investment, innovation, and discipline can outpace even larger adversaries.
