15 Countries With Highest Defense Spending and Largest Military Budgets

13. Brazil

Military Spending: $23.7 Billion

Brazil’s defense budget represents around 1.3% of its GDP, but during 2016, its spending declined by 7.2%, according to SIPRI, as the country plunged into recession outlined by an economic and political crisis. Nevertheless, Brazil’s military expenditures are the government’s second-largest budget item, topping even education. Brazil’s high military spending can be justified by its intention to be the leading country on the South American continent and the ever-growing tensions in Venezuela, which might require military intervention from other countries.

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