Several countries maintain tanks as a deterrent or ceremonial presence, but challenging terrains or underdeveloped infrastructure mean these weapons are rarely used in practical military operations. 

7 countries that have tanks but no roads to drive them

Most countries maintain a military for national defence. But a handful have chosen another path, relying on allies, treaties, or police forces instead of standing armies. Here are 20 countries that live without their own armies.


Are you a conqueror? List of 20 countries with 'no army' of their own to defend

Entering service in the late 1940s, the MiG-15 played a decisive role in the Korean War. Its swept-wing design and jet performance challenged Western aircraft like the F-86 Sabre, establishing the Soviet Union as a key player in jet fighter technology.

MiG-15, F-4 Phantom and more: 5 fighter jets that changed the course of modern warfare

WWII accelerated development. Propeller-driven fighters like the Spitfire and Messerschmitt defined the early years. By 1944, Germany introduced the Messerschmitt Me 262—the first operational jet fighter.

From planes to fighter jets! How the war machine was invented?

The Tejas Mk2 is a single‑engine, canard‑delta fighter developed as a medium‑weight upgrade over the Tejas Mk1A. It uses over 40 per cent composite materials to reduce weight and radar signature. The aircraft is approximately 14.6 m long and 8.5 m wide. 

Tejas Mk2 vs F-16: How India’s fighter jet compares with the US workhorse

Other countries such as Australia, the United States and others like Indonesia and the Philippines have reportedly expressed informal interest in Tejas jets for evaluation or training use. 

'Tejas Mk2 export potential': Which countries could buy India's next fighter jet?

In the event of a full-scale military escalation with Thailand, Cambodia may not match its neighbour’s aerial strength. However, modern warfare isn't solely won in the skies. Cambodia could still adopt asymmetric and cost-effective strategies to defend its territory.

5 military strategies Cambodia could use without fighter jets or bombers against Thailand

If tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalate into full-blown war, Indian travellers may face several travel-related disruptions though Bangkok itself is unlikely to become a direct conflict zone. Here's a breakdown:

Can Indians visit Bangkok if Thailand goes to war with Cambodia?

China has invested heavily in Cambodia's military infrastructure and supplied it with arms, including trucks, radars, and small aircraft. 

Thailand–Cambodia conflict: 7 countries that could get indirectly involved in escalation

India’s Act East policy includes stronger ties with ASEAN countries, especially Thailand. Any regional instability is of concern to India, particularly if it affects trade corridors or opens new opportunities for defence diplomacy and cooperation.

6 countries watching Cambodia-Thailand war escalation closely

Thailand currently operates around 112 combat aircraft, including 28 F‑16s and 11 Saab Gripen fighters aircraft capable of precision strikes and aerial defence. Thailand also integrates radar systems and aerial early-warning platforms, significantly enhancing its command and control in the air.

Can Cambodia defeat Thailand without fighter jets and air bombers?

The worst occurred on July 21, 2025, when a Bangladesh Air Force F‑7 BGI training jet crashed into the Milestone School campus in Dhaka. 

Falling from the sky: What’s really behind the deadly trend of fighter jet crashes in Asia?