Public trust in the military across Asia in 2025–2026 shows clear regional contrasts, with several countries placing exceptionally high confidence in their armed forces. Leading the ranking is Indonesia, which tops the list with an impressive 89% trust score.
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) are widely viewed as the most trusted institution in the country, driven not only by defense roles but also by their strong presence in disaster relief and community support.
In second place is China with 77% public trust, reflecting strong alignment between the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and national development objectives. The military is perceived as a key pillar of state strength and modernization. Close behind, India ranks third at 76%, where the armed forces command deep respect due to their role in border security, national defense, and their symbolic importance to national pride.
Beyond the top three, trust levels gradually decline but remain significant across much of Asia. Countries like Vietnam, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia show high confidence rooted in sovereignty protection and internal stability, while others such as Japan display more cautious public attitudes shaped by historical and constitutional constraints.
