Europe Fuels Global Military Spending to a Record $2.9 Trillion in 2025

Global military expenditure rose to about $2.89 trillion in 2025, led by Europe’s 14% jump to $864 billion (with Germany up 24% to $114 billion and Spain up 50%), while U.S. spending declined about 7.5% to $954 billion; Asia-Pacific grew 8.1% to $681 billion, including Taiwan and Japan increases. SIPRI notes the global defense share of GDP rose to 2.5%, the highest since 2009, amid wars and geopolitical tensions. The EU eyeing up to €800 billion in defense mobilization by 2030, and defense stocks surged across Europe and Asia as spending accelerates.