France

It is difficult to exaggerate France's impact on the world, both historically and currently. France, one of the oldest nations in the world and one of the most influential in science, politics, economy, and maybe most importantly, culture, is a country in Western Europe. Despite being a relatively small force, the French military is well-equipped, competent, and able to project power.

The Charles de Gaulle, the nation's almost-new aircraft carrier, is frequently sent on military operations around Africa to support the stabilization of governments and the battle against terrorism.

France, the EU's largest military power, is actively participating in the defense of the union with a $62.3 billion budget and 208,700 men and women on active duty. With one aircraft carrier, 27 warships, and eight nuclear submarines, France's naval navy rules the Mediterranean.

French warships were dispatched to the Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) two years ago to defend a research vessel of French interest from Turkish Navy harassment.

Budget: $62.3 billion

Active frontline personnel: 208,700

Tanks: 423

Total aircraft: 1,264

Submarines: 10