Navy comparison: 
China vs 
United States
Fleet Profile
| China | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Official name | People's Liberation Army Navy | United States Navy |
| Total ships | 1,033 (2026) | 553 (2026) |
| Active ships | 1,005 | 234 |
| Naval ensign |  |
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Ship Categories Radar Comparison
Ships by Category
🇨🇳 Chinaas of 2026
🇺🇸 United Statesas of 2026
Overview
China operates a fleet of 1033 ships compared to 553 for United States. Of these, 1005 and 234 are in active service respectively.
The fleet breakdown includes 85 vs 85 submarines, 3 vs 16 aircraft carriers, 66 vs 102 destroyers, 59 vs 3 frigates, 50 vs 33 corvettes, 82 vs 52 amphibious ships, 94 vs 0 patrol boats, 37 vs 4 mine warfare ships, 34 vs 0 unmanned vessels (China vs United States).
China's navy is officially the People's Liberation Army Navy, while United States's is the United States Navy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has more naval ships, China or United States?
China has a larger navy with 1,033 ships compared to United States's 553 ships.
Which navy has more submarines, China or United States?
United States operates more submarines with 85 compared to China's 85.
Which country has more aircraft carriers, China or United States?
United States has 16 aircraft carrier(s) compared to China's 3.
Which navy has more destroyers, China or United States?
United States operates 102 destroyers compared to China's 66.
Which navy has more frigates, China or United States?
China operates 59 frigates compared to United States's 3.
How do the China and United States navies compare in size?
China's navy is 1.9 times larger than United States's in terms of total ships (1,033 vs 553).