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Navy comparison: Flag of Australia Australia vs Flag of China China

China's 1033-ship navy outnumbers Australia's 59 vessels (18:1 advantage). Of these, 44 and 1005 are in active service respectively.

Fleet Profile
Australia China
Official name Royal Australian Navy People's Liberation Army Navy
Total ships 59 (2026) 1,033 (2026)
Active ships 44 1,005
Naval ensign Ensign of Australia navy Ensign of China navy
Ship Categories Radar Comparison

Ships by Category

🇦🇺 Australiaas of 2026
  • Submarines 6
  • Destroyers 3
  • Frigates 10
  • Patrol boats 32
  • Amphibious ships 3
  • Mine Warfare ships 2
  • Support ships 2
  • Other ships 1
🇨🇳 Chinaas of 2026
  • Submarines 85
  • Aircraft carriers 3
  • Destroyers 66
  • Frigates 59
  • Corvettes 50
  • Patrol boats 94
  • Amphibious ships 82
  • Mine Warfare ships 37
  • Cargo ships 27
  • Support ships 442
  • Unmanned vessels 34
  • Other ships 54
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Frequently Asked Questions

Which country has more naval ships, Australia or China?
China has a larger navy with 1,033 ships compared to Australia's 59 ships.
Which navy has more submarines, Australia or China?
China operates more submarines with 85 compared to Australia's 6.
Which country has more aircraft carriers, Australia or China?
China has 3 aircraft carrier(s) compared to Australia's 0.
Which navy has more destroyers, Australia or China?
China operates 66 destroyers compared to Australia's 3.
Which navy has more frigates, Australia or China?
China operates 59 frigates compared to Australia's 10.
How do the Australia and China navies compare in size?
China's navy is 17.5 times larger than Australia's in terms of total ships (1,033 vs 59).