Why I have half the amount of professional soldiers as my neighbours?

[memoric]

Hello

My military manpower allows me to have a standing army of about 3000-4000 soldiers.
My neighbours and in power ranking lower allies than me have armies of about 10000 troops. I'm in the age of discovery and haven't unlocked the pike & shot institution.

Someone knows more?

Thanks

Edit: I've build armories and sergeantry everywhere where it's possible.

[tonypa]

Maybe they have hired mercs.

[memoric]

Thanks for your answer! Can they hire mercs in peacetime? Where can I see if it's mercs or regular troops?

Thanks

[tonypa]

Anyone can hire mercs at peace and at war times. You can not raise levies at peace, but you can have both mercs and regulars.

Mercs should show up under regulars but I am not sure how you could distinguish between them.

[memoric]

ok, thank you!