Precision Guided Munitions

Precision Guided Munitions

Global Precision Guided Munitions Market to Reach US$56.8 Billion by 2030

The global market for Precision Guided Munitions estimated at US$37.8 Billion in the year 2023, is expected to reach US$56.8 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.0% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Tactical Missiles, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 6.6% CAGR and reach US$38.0 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Guided Rockets segment is estimated at 4.9% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$11.4 Billion While China is Forecast to Grow at 7.7% CAGR

The Precision Guided Munitions market in the U.S. is estimated at US$11.4 Billion in the year 2023. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$7.4 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 7.7% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% and 4.5% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 5.4% CAGR.

Global Precision Guided Munition Market - Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

How Is Precision Guided Munition Transforming Modern Warfare?

Precision guided munitions (PGMs) are transforming the landscape of modern warfare by enabling militaries to engage targets with extreme accuracy and efficiency, while minimizing collateral damage. PGMs, also known as smart weapons, are designed to hit specific targets with high precision, utilizing advanced guidance systems such as GPS, laser, or infrared technology. These munitions have become a cornerstone of military strategy, as they allow forces to strike high-value targets such as enemy infrastructure, vehicles, or personnel with minimal risk to civilian areas or friendly forces.

The shift from traditional, unguided munitions to precision-guided systems is driven by the need for more efficient, cost-effective, and scalable military operations. PGMs reduce the number of sorties required to complete a mission and minimize the amount of ammunition used, leading to lower operational costs and reduced wear on military equipment. Furthermore, the accuracy of PGMs limits the unintended destruction of non-military targets, aligning with the growing focus on minimizing civilian casualties in conflict zones. These weapons have become increasingly relevant in asymmetric warfare and counterterrorism operations, where precision and minimal collateral damage are critical for mission success. The integration of PGMs into military arsenals is reshaping how nations approach both strategic and tactical combat scenarios.

What Technological Innovations Are Driving The Precision Guided Munition Market?

Technological innovations are driving the rapid advancement of precision guided munitions, with significant developments in guidance systems, propulsion, and delivery platforms. One of the most transformative advancements is the integration of global positioning systems (GPS) and inertial navigation systems (INS) in PGMs. These technologies enable munitions to accurately locate and strike targets regardless of weather conditions or visibility. The introduction of laser guidance systems is also noteworthy, as these allow munitions to lock onto targets with pinpoint precision, guided by laser designators on the ground or from aircraft. Additionally, infrared and electro-optical guidance systems enhance the effectiveness of PGMs by providing real-time tracking and target identification capabilities.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are beginning to play a significant role in the development of next-generation PGMs. AI-enhanced munitions can autonomously identify and track targets, making real-time adjustments during flight to account for target movement or changes in environmental conditions. This level of autonomy reduces the reliance on human operators and increases the speed and accuracy of engagements. Moreover, advancements in data fusion are improving the ability of PGMs to integrate multiple streams of information from various sensors, providing a more complete and dynamic understanding of the battlefield.

Propulsion systems are also evolving, with the development of longer-range PGMs that can be deployed from greater distances, allowing forces to engage targets while remaining outside of enemy defenses. Hypersonic munitions, which travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, are emerging as a game-changer in this field. These weapons significantly reduce the time between launch and impact, making them harder to intercept. The growing use of loitering munitions, sometimes referred to as "kamikaze drones," also represents a key innovation. These munitions can hover over an area before engaging a target, offering the flexibility to adapt to changing battlefield conditions. These technological advancements are enhancing the capabilities and effectiveness of modern precision guided munitions, making them indispensable in contemporary military operations.

How Are Geopolitical Factors Shaping The Growth Of The Precision Guided Munition Market?

Geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts are playing a pivotal role in driving the demand for precision guided munitions across the globe. The growing instability in regions such as the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Asia-Pacific has led to increased military spending by both developed and developing nations as they seek to strengthen their defense capabilities. Nations are increasingly investing in PGMs as part of their broader efforts to modernize their military forces and enhance their ability to conduct precise, surgical strikes in conflict zones. This trend is particularly evident in countries like the United States, Russia, China, and Israel, which are leading the way in developing and deploying advanced PGM technologies.

The rise of asymmetric warfare, where state and non-state actors engage in unconventional tactics, is also driving demand for PGMs. Precision munitions are essential in counterterrorism operations, where the ability to target specific individuals or assets without causing widespread destruction is crucial. In addition, ongoing tensions between NATO and Russia, as well as territorial disputes in the South China Sea, have led to heightened military posturing and increased procurement of advanced weaponry, including precision guided munitions.

Defense budgets in many countries are reflecting this increased focus on precision warfare. The United States, for example, continues to allocate significant resources to the development of next-generation PGMs, including hypersonic missiles and long-range strike capabilities. Similarly, countries in the Asia-Pacific region, such as India and Japan, are bolstering their military arsenals with PGMs to counter growing security threats from regional rivals. In the Middle East, nations such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are investing heavily in precision guided munitions to enhance their defense against regional adversaries and non-state actors. As geopolitical tensions persist and new conflicts emerge, the demand for PGMs is expected to grow steadily in the coming years.

What Are The Key Growth Drivers In The Precision Guided Munition Market?

The growth in the precision guided munition market is driven by several key factors, including rising military expenditures, advancements in missile and guidance technologies, and the increasing need for precision in modern warfare. One of the primary growth drivers is the continuous rise in global defense budgets. As nations focus on modernizing their armed forces and developing more advanced weaponry, a significant portion of these budgets is being allocated to the development and procurement of PGMs. This trend is particularly prominent in regions experiencing geopolitical tensions or conflict, such as the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and the Asia-Pacific.

Another key driver is the increasing importance of minimizing collateral damage in military operations. Precision guided munitions allow for highly targeted strikes that reduce the risk of unintended civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. This capability is becoming more critical as global militaries engage in counterinsurgency, counterterrorism, and urban warfare, where precision is paramount. The growing importance of precision strikes is reflected in the increasing use of PGMs in high-profile military operations, such as those conducted by the United States in the Middle East and by coalition forces in various conflict zones.

Technological advancements are also playing a major role in driving market growth. The development of more accurate, long-range, and autonomous munitions is enabling militaries to engage targets with greater precision and flexibility. Hypersonic technology, AI integration, and enhanced guidance systems are all contributing to the increasing effectiveness of PGMs, making them a preferred choice for modern warfare. The ability to deploy PGMs from various platforms, including aircraft, drones, naval ships, and land-based systems, further enhances their appeal, as they provide a versatile solution for different combat scenarios.

Finally, the increasing reliance on unmanned systems in modern warfare is boosting the demand for precision guided munitions. As drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) become more common in military operations, the need for munitions that can be launched and guided remotely with precision is rising. Loitering munitions, for example, are becoming increasingly popular in both offensive and defensive roles, offering the ability to conduct surveillance and then strike once a target is identified. These factors, combined with the continued focus on military modernization and technological innovation, are expected to drive sustained growth in the precision guided munition market over the coming years.

SCOPE OF STUDY:

The report analyzes the Precision Guided Munitions market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries:

Segments:
Product Type (Tactical Missiles, Guided Rockets, Loitering Munitions, Guided Ammunitions); Operation Mode (Semi-Autonomous Mode, Autonomous Mode); Technology (Global Positioning System (GPS) Technology, Semi-Active Laser Technology, Infrared Technology, Inertial Navigation System (INS) Technology, Radar Homing Technology, Anti-Radiation Technology, Other Technologies)

Geographic Regions/Countries:
World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; Latin America; Middle East; Africa.

Select Competitors (Total 54 Featured) -

• ATLAS ELEKTRONIK GmbH
• BAE Systems plc
• Boeing Company
• Denel Dynamics
• Elbit Systems Ltd.
• General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc.
• Hanwha Aerospace
• Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) Ltd.
• L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
• Lockheed Martin Corporation
• Northrop Grumman Corporation
• RTX Corporation
• Textron Systems
• Thales Group

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