These four nations are the most prominent in Latin America in submarine fleets. Photo: composition by Fabrizio Oviedo/La República/Infodefensa
South America is not far behind in maritime security. These are four nations that stand out in 2024 by being included in the group of 25 countries with the largest number of submarine fleets in Latin America and the world. China, Russia and the United States continue to lead the top 3 of the ranking made by Global Fire Power (GFP).
The region, known for its wide coastlines and abundant marine resources, considers these submarines as essential tools for the surveillance and protection of its waters. Despite budgetary limitations, there is a country in South America that stands out for its construction of its own submarines and the development of a nuclear submarine.
What are the 4 South American countries with the most submarines in the world?
Brazil, Peru, Colombia and Chile are the regional leaders in number of submarines, each with fleets comprising at least four units, according to the most recent data from Global Fire Power (GFP).
These countries maintain a notable presence in the 2024 global ranking, but they also demonstrate a capacity for maintenance and modernization of their equipment. Peru, which previously stood out as the regional leader, now sees how Brazil overcomes it with valuable investments in underwater technology.
Brazil, the country with the most modern submarines in Latin America
Brazil, in a clear example of progress and innovation, has taken the lead in Latin America by expanding and modernizing its submarine fleet. The Brazilian Navy, in an effort to protect the so-called “Blue Amazon”has increased its capabilities with locally designed and manufactured submarines, in addition to including plans for conventional units and an innovative nuclear submarine.
This expansion highlights the ability of Brazil to develop first-class technology, but it also reflects a defense strategy adapted to the challenges of the 21st century.
Brazil has already begun the construction of its first nuclear submarine in the world. Photo: @periodistan_/X
What are the 10 countries with the most submarines in the world?
At a global level, powers such as China, the United States and Russia They lead the count with the largest fleets. China, which in 2023 topped the list, has seen a decline in its number, although it remains a dominant player.
This global panorama shows the importance of submarines in national security and deterrence strategies, in which even countries with lower economic and technological capabilities seek to maintain or increase their underwater presence.
| Countries with the most submarines | 2023 | 2024 |
| China | 78 | 61 |
| Russia | 70 | 65 |
| USA | 68 | 64 |
| North Korea | 35 | 35 |
| South Korea | 22 | 22 |
| Japan | twenty-one | 23 |
| Iran | 19 | 19 |
| India | 18 | 18 |
| Türkiye | 12 | 12 |
| Greece | eleven | eleven |
What are the 10 largest submarines in the world?
The size and capacity of submarines vary considerably, from gigantic Russian Typhoons to the advanced Ohio Americans.
These marine behemoths are central to nuclear deterrence strategies and represent the pinnacle of underwater technology, with capabilities including ballistic missile launches and prolonged underwater special operations.
- Typhoon class Russia/Project 941 Akula class
- Borei class Russia/Project 955 Borei
- Ohio class, United States
- Delta Class, Russia
- Oscar Class Russia/ Project 949 A Antey
- Vanguard class, United Kingdom
- Yasen/Graney class, Russia
- Triumphant Class, France
- Sierra class, Russia
- Akula class, Russia.
Which country has the most nuclear submarines?
In the race for nuclear submarine supremacy, USA and Russia They remain strong, but China has made significant advances with its Shang-class attack models.
These nuclear submarines are key to China’s military strategy, contributing to its position as an emerging naval power and reconfiguring the balance of power in international waters.
What is the country with the largest naval force in the world?
Russia has managed to surpass the United States and China as the country with the largest naval force in the world. According to the report of Global Fire Power (GFP), this is due to the strategic investment in defense and modernization of its navy. In this way, cutting-edge technology was incorporated, which, together with the capacity of its agents, has allowed its development and global leadership.
Top 5 countries with the greatest naval strength in the world. Photo: Global Fire Power (GFP)
Chile or Peru? Who has the most powerful army?
Although both countries have shown dedication to modernizing their armed forces, Chile surpasses Peru despite presenting a slight decrease in its power index, according to Global Fire Power.
In this way, Chile is ranked 52nd with a PwrIndx of 0.8128, where 0 is the best rating. For its part, Peru is one box lower, with a score of 0.8475. However, the latter presents a more stable scenario with respect to the nation governed by Gabriel Boric.
In this sense, Peru authorized, in April 2024, the acquisition of Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) and ammunition for a value of 230 million dollars. This purchasing process aims to replace equipment that has been used since the 1970s.
