The Most Difficult Country to Invade, Ranked

Choose the country you think is the most difficult!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 29, 2024 06:30
Historical conflicts and strategic defenses have often highlighted the resilience of nations against invasion. From natural barriers to technological advancements, some countries are notably fortified against external threats. This can lead to intriguing discussions about military strategy and geopolitical stability. By voting on which country you believe is the hardest to invade, you contribute to a broader conversation about global defense structures and international relations. Each vote helps shape a dynamic picture of public perception regarding the strength and impenetrability of nations worldwide.

What Is the Most Difficult Country to Invade?

  1. 1
    62
    votes

    Switzerland

    Switzerland's mountainous terrain, strong national defense policy including mandatory military service, and well-prepared infrastructure for resistance make it a formidable country to invade.
    • Terrain: Mountainous, with the Alps covering a significant portion
    • Defense policy: Mandatory military service
  2. 2
    36
    votes

    Afghanistan

    Often called the 'graveyard of empires,' Afghanistan's rugged terrain and history of successful resistance against invaders make it notoriously difficult to control.
    • Terrain: Mountainous and rugged
    • Historical resistance: Successfully resisted multiple empires
  3. 3
    18
    votes

    Iran

    Iran's mountainous terrain, large size, and significant military capabilities make it a difficult country for potential invaders to conquer.
    • Terrain: Mountainous
    • Military capabilities: Significant
  4. 4
    17
    votes

    Canada

    Canada's vast size, difficult terrain, and harsh climate conditions, especially in winter, make it a challenging country to invade.
    • Area: 9,984,670 square kilometers
    • Climate: Harsh winters
  5. 5
    17
    votes

    North Korea

    With one of the largest standing armies in the world, difficult terrain, and a regime that has heavily fortified its borders, North Korea poses a significant challenge to invaders.
    • Standing army: One of the largest in the world
    • Border fortifications: Heavily fortified
  6. 6
    15
    votes

    Russia

    Due to its vast size, harsh climate, and challenging terrain, Russia has historically been difficult to invade, as seen in the failed invasions by Napoleon and Hitler.
    • Area: 17,098,242 square kilometers
    • Notable failed invasion: Operation Barbarossa, 1941
  7. 7
    12
    votes

    Australia

    Australia's isolation, harsh deserts, and developed military make it a tough country to successfully invade.
    • Desert area: Over 1.4 million square kilometers
    • Isolation: Surrounded by ocean
  8. 8
    4
    votes

    United States

    Protected by vast oceans on both sides and possessing the world's most powerful military, the United States presents a formidable challenge to potential invaders.
    • Military expenditure: Largest in the world
    • Geographical advantage: Oceans on both the Eastern and Western fronts
  9. 9
    2
    votes

    China

    With its vast land area, large population, and significant military capabilities, China is extremely difficult to invade.
    • Population: Over 1.4 billion
    • Military personnel: Largest in the world
  10. 10
    2
    votes

    United Kingdom

    The United Kingdom's island geography has historically provided a natural defense against invaders, supported by a strong navy.
    • Geographical advantage: Island nation
    • Navy: Historically strong

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most difficult country to invade. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or nation is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

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  • 185 votes
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A participant may cast an up or down vote for each nation once every 24 hours. The rank of each nation is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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Additional Information

More about the Most Difficult Country to Invade

Switzerland
Rank #1 for the most difficult country to invade: Switzerland (Source)
A country’s ability to resist invasion depends on many factors. Geography often plays a key role. Natural barriers like mountains, deserts, and dense forests can make it hard for invading forces to advance. These features slow down movement, making it difficult for troops to maintain supply lines and communication.

Climate also matters. Harsh weather conditions can weaken invading armies. Extreme cold or heat, heavy rains, and strong winds can make it hard for troops to operate. Soldiers may face frostbite, heatstroke, or other weather-related issues. These challenges can reduce morale and effectiveness.

Strong military defenses are another key factor. A well-trained and well-equipped army can repel invaders. Modern technology, such as advanced weaponry and surveillance systems, can give defenders an edge. Effective use of these tools can disrupt enemy plans and reduce their chances of success.

Political stability and unity within the country can also deter invasions. A united population is more likely to support the military and resist occupation. Strong leadership can inspire citizens to defend their homeland. In contrast, internal conflicts and divisions can weaken a country’s ability to fend off invaders.

Economic strength supports military readiness. A robust economy can fund defense programs and maintain military infrastructure. It can also ensure that soldiers have the supplies and equipment they need. Economic resilience can sustain a country during prolonged conflicts, making it harder for invaders to achieve their goals.

Strategic alliances can provide additional support. Countries with strong allies can rely on external help in times of crisis. These alliances can deter potential invaders, knowing that an attack on one country might trigger a broader conflict. Military aid and reinforcements from allies can bolster a country’s defenses.

Cultural factors can influence resistance. A strong sense of national identity and pride can motivate citizens to defend their country. Historical experiences of past invasions can strengthen this resolve. Cultural unity can lead to widespread participation in defense efforts, making it difficult for invaders to gain a foothold.

In summary, the most difficult country to invade benefits from a combination of natural defenses, harsh climate, strong military, political unity, economic strength, strategic alliances, and cultural resolve. These factors create a formidable barrier to any potential invader, making it a challenging target.

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