5 Most Powerful Countries in Asia in 2023

3. India

GDP Ranking: 3

Global Firepower Index Ranking: 3

CEO World Index Ranking: 4

Average Ranking: 3.3

India is the third most powerful country in Asia, going by a combination of military, economic and political power. As of 2023, the Indian military operates 2,210 aircraft, including 577 fighter jets, nearly 5,000 tanks and 200 naval vessels, including 2 aircraft carriers, that allow the country to project power in the Indian ocean.

In terms of political power, India is an important member in BRICS and QUAD. India also has a highly developed services sector, accounting for 47.5% of the country’s GDP. India received 3% of China’s lost share to US exports back in 2019, as noted by the Rabo Bank.