North African countries command the highest military budgets on the continent, though several sub-Saharan nations maintain substantial defence investments to address their own security imperatives.
1. Algeria — $25+ billion
Algeria maintains Africa’s largest defence budget, channelling resources into air defence, ground forces, and border surveillance infrastructure. The spending supports operational readiness and counter-terrorism campaigns across extensive desert borders.
2. Morocco — $13.4 billion
Morocco ranks second with major investments in military modernisation, including air capabilities and maritime defence. The budget reflects decades of strategic planning and international defence cooperation.