Air Forces comparison: 
China vs 
India
Aircraft by Type
🇨🇳 Chinaas of 2026
🇮🇳 Indiaas of 2026
Fleet Evolution
🇨🇳 China
🇮🇳 India
Overview
China operates 3,731 active military aircraft vs 2,217 for India.
The breakdown includes 2,043 vs 588 combat aircraft, 234 vs 0 bombers, 1,019 vs 993 helicopters, 413 vs 340 transport aircraft, 16 vs 290 trainers (China vs India). China has 130 aircraft on order vs 587 for India.
The China air force is officially the People's Liberation Army Air Force.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has more military aircraft, China or India?
China has more military aircraft with 3,731 active aircraft compared to India's 2,217, a difference of 1,514 aircraft.
Which air force has more combat aircraft, China or India?
China has more combat aircraft with 2,043 fighters and attack aircraft compared to India's 588.
Which country has more military helicopters, China or India?
China operates more military helicopters with 1,019 compared to India's 993.
Which air force has more transport aircraft, China or India?
China has more transport aircraft with 413 compared to India's 340.
Which country has more aircraft on order, China or India?
India has 587 aircraft on order compared to China's 130.