Over-the-beach capability

A primary measure of a nation's power projection is its over-the-beach capability. This consists of the number of soldiers, tanks, vehicles, and helicopters that a nation can stage over an adversary's defended coast in a time of war. Generally, these elements only count if they can be projected across hundreds of miles of open ocean. Over-the-beach capability determines a nation's power projection together with forward airpower (strength of aircraft carriers and/or overseas airbases), alliances, and nuclear options.

Leading Nations of the World

US

India

3,370 men (from 14 ships); 65 tanks; 30 Harrier jets; 10 helicopters

Australia

1,760 men (from 9 ships); 36 Leopard tanks; 8 helicopters

EU total

13,384 men (from 18 ships); 234 tanks; 40 Rafale jets; 72 Harrier jets; 92 helicopters; 42 Tiger helicopters

France

4,450 men; 70 Leclerc tanks; 88 light tanks; 40 Rafale jets; 42 Tiger helicopters

UK

3,034 men; 108 Challenger tanks; 44 Harrier jets

Spain

3,000 men; 36 Leopard 2 tanks; 12 Harrier jets; 42 helicopters

Netherlands-

1,400 men; 20 Leopard 2 tanks; 30 helicopters

Italy-

1,500 men; 16 Harrier jets; 20 helicopters

China

^{[1] [2] [3]}

References

1. ^ John Pike. "Reliable Security Information". GlobalSecurity.org. http://www.globalsecurity.org. Retrieved 2011-08-17. 
2. ^ [1]^{[dead link]}
3. ^ "Institute for Defense & Disarmament Studies". Idds.org. http://www.idds.org. Retrieved 2011-08-17.