United Kingdom: Armed forces

The latest value from 2020 is 153000 people, an increase from 149000 people in 2019. In comparison, the world average is 162240 people, based on data from 167 countries. Historically, the average for the United Kingdom from 1985 to 2020 is 207942 people. The minimum value, 148000 people, was reached in 2017 while the maximum of 334000 people was recorded in 1985. See the global rankings for that indicator or use the country comparator to compare trends over time.

Definition: Armed forces personnel are active duty military personnel, including paramilitary forces if the training, organization, equipment, and control suggest they may be used to support or replace regular military forces.