South Africa: Armed forces

The latest value from 2020 is 89000 people, a decline from 90000 people in 2019. In comparison, the world average is 162240 people, based on data from 167 countries. Historically, the average for South Africa from 1985 to 2020 is 97466 people. The minimum value, 55000 people, was reached in 2004 while the maximum of 277900 people was recorded in 1996. See the global rankings for that indicator or use the country comparator to compare trends over time.

Definition: Armed forces personnel are active duty military personnel, including paramilitary forces if the training, organization, equipment, and control suggest they may be used to support or replace regular military forces.