Navy comparison: 
China vs 
United Kingdom
Fleet Profile
| China | United Kingdom | |
|---|---|---|
| Official name | People's Liberation Army Navy | Royal Navy |
| Total ships | 1,060 (2026) | 82 (2025) |
| Active ships | 1,042 | 65 |
| Naval ensign |  |
 |
Ship Categories Radar Comparison
Ships by Category
🇨🇳 Chinaas of 2026
🇬🇧 United Kingdomas of 2025
Overview
China's 1060-ship navy outnumbers United Kingdom's 82 vessels (13:1 advantage). Of these, 1042 and 65 are in active service respectively.
The fleet breakdown includes 81 vs 10 submarines, 3 vs 2 aircraft carriers, 62 vs 6 destroyers, 59 vs 8 frigates, 50 vs 0 corvettes, 80 vs 0 amphibious ships, 94 vs 26 patrol boats, 37 vs 10 mine warfare ships, 34 vs 11 unmanned vessels (China vs United Kingdom).
China's navy is officially the People's Liberation Army Navy, while United Kingdom's is the Royal Navy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has more naval ships, China or United Kingdom?
China has a larger navy with 1,060 ships compared to United Kingdom's 82 ships.
Which navy has more submarines, China or United Kingdom?
China operates more submarines with 81 compared to United Kingdom's 10.
Which country has more aircraft carriers, China or United Kingdom?
China has 3 aircraft carrier(s) compared to United Kingdom's 2.
Which navy has more destroyers, China or United Kingdom?
China operates 62 destroyers compared to United Kingdom's 6.
Which navy has more frigates, China or United Kingdom?
China operates 59 frigates compared to United Kingdom's 8.
How do the China and United Kingdom navies compare in size?
China's navy is 12.9 times larger than United Kingdom's in terms of total ships (1,060 vs 82).