Russia

Without a doubt, the Russian military is one of the most powerful militaries in the world. After World War II, of course, the Soviet Union's communism was the US's arch nemesis. Despite being a capitalist nation today, Russia still possesses the military power of the ancient red empire.

The military budget of the Kremlin has grown by over a third since 2008 and is predicted to climb by 44% more during the following three years. By sending troops to Syria, Russia has also proven its capacity to project force internationally.

Russia now maintains an army with one million male and female soldiers and an annual budget of $84.5 billion. It has one fewer aircraft carrier but twice as many tanks (15,398) as the US and almost the same amount of nuclear weapons (6,500). In addition, it possesses 3,429 aircraft, 55 nuclear submarines, and 70 warships.

Budget: $84.5 billion

Active frontline personnel: 766,055

Tanks: 15,398

Total aircraft: 3,429

Submarines: 55