According to the latest report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Morocco and Algeria together account for nearly 55% of total military spending in Africa. The data, covering the year 2025, highlights the continued dominance of these two North African nations in defense budgets amid longstanding regional tensions.
The report indicates that Algeria's military expenditure reached approximately $10.4 billion in 2025, making it the top spender on the continent. Morocco followed with an estimated $7.2 billion. Combined, these figures represent over half of Africa's total military spending, which SIPRI estimates at around $32 billion for the year.
The increase in defense budgets is attributed to ongoing disputes, including the Western Sahara conflict and broader geopolitical rivalries. Both countries have been modernizing their armed forces, with significant investments in advanced aircraft, naval vessels, and missile systems.
SIPRI's data is widely regarded as a reliable source for global military expenditure trends. The report underscores how regional tensions continue to drive defense spending, even as other parts of Africa focus on development and security challenges.
