The military strength of China vs. Japan has been a consideration for centuries, especially after World War II. As far as countries go, they aren’t exactly friendly towards each other. China’s growth as a country has led to the modernization of its military forces. Conversely, Japan, though constrained by its pacifist constitution, has been bolstering its defense capacities in response to evolving threats.

24/7 Wall St. Key Points

• China has a huge numerical advantage over Japan. However, Japan does have some strategic investments and alliances. 
• In many ways, China leads in sheer size. However, Japan’s advanced military serves its unique defensive posture.
• Also, read “The Next NVIDIA.”

In this article, we compare each country based on up-to-date metrics on their manpower, financial resources, and other important metrics. We’ll look at how these countries stack up in specific areas, providing insights into their strengths and weaknesses. 

Why We’re Covering This

Military strength has a big impact on the economy, which we cover a lot here at 24/7 Wall St. For instance, we’ve covered which countries are strengthening their military. Military spending can spur the economy in some areas, but it can also negatively impact the economy, as well. 

1. Total Population

• China: 1.41 billion
• Japan: 123.7 million

2. Available Manpower

• China: 763 million
• Japan: 53.2 million

3. Fit-for-Service

• China: 626 million
• Japan: 43 million

4. Military Aged Annually

• China: 19.78 million
• Japan: 1.11 million

5. Active Personnel

• China: 2.04 million
• Japan: 247,150

6. Reserve Personnel

• China: 510,000
• Japan: 56,000

7. Paramilitary Forces

• China: 625,000
• Japan: 25,000

8. Defense Budget

• China: $227 billion
• Japan: $53 billion

9. Foreign Reserves

• China: $3.43 trillion
• Japan: $1.41 trillion

10. Total Aircraft

• China: 3,302
• Japan: 1,459

11. Fighter Aircraft

• China: 1,207
• Japan: 217

12. Dedicated Attack Aircraft

• China: 371
• Japan: 36

13. Transports

• China: 289
• Japan: 56

14. Trainers

• China: 402
• Japan: 420

15. Tanks

• China: 5,000
• Japan: 518

16. Armored Vehicles

• China: 174,300
• Japan: 37,662

17. Self-Propelled Artillery

• China: 3,850
• Japan: 173

18. Rocket Projectors

• China: 3,180
• Japan: 54

19. Fleet Strength

• China: 730
• Japan: 155

20. Aircraft Carriers

• China: 2
• Japan: 0

21. Submarines

• China: 61
• Japan: 23

22. Frigates

• China: 42
• Japan: 4

23. Patrol Vessels

• China: 150
• Japan: 6

24. Airports

• China: 507
• Japan: 175

25. Merchant Marine Fleet

• China: 7,362
• Japan: 5,590

26. Labor Force

• China: 791
• Japan: 68.6 million

27. Oil Production

• China: 4.72 million bbl/day
• Japan: 10,200 bbl/day

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