The world powers with aircraft carriers, ranked by the number of large carriers in service as of 2025, are: the United States (11), China (3), the United Kingdom (2), and India (2). Other nations with large or smaller carriers include France, Italy, Japan, and Spain, with France being the only other nation with a nuclear-powered carrier.
1. United States
- Number: 11 large, nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.
- Significance: The US operates the world’s largest and most powerful carrier fleet, providing unmatched global power projection and reach.
2. China
- Number: 3 large aircraft carriers, with some smaller helicopter carriers as well.
- Significance: China’s fleet is second in size and is growing. Their most advanced carrier, the Fujian, is a significant technological advancement for China’s naval capabilities.
3. United Kingdom
- Number: 2 large carriers.
- Significance: The UK’s carriers, like the Queen Elizabeth-class, were designed for global power projection.
4. India
- Number: 2 carriers, including a domestically built ship.
- Significance: India has recently commissioned its first indigenous carrier and is increasing its naval power in the region.
Other Significant Nations:
- France: Operates one nuclear-powered carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, the only other nuclear carrier besides the US.
- Italy: Operates two light carriers.
- Japan: Operates two smaller “helicopter carriers,” which are being converted to operate VSTOL fighters.
- Spain: Operates one light carrier
