Loitering Munition System Market Forecasts to 2030 – Global Analysis By Type (Fixed-Wing and Rotary-Wing), By Functionality (Autonomous Identification and Positioning and Manual Positioning), Range, Payload, Application and By Geography

Loitering Munition System Market Forecasts to 2030 – Global Analysis By Type (Fixed-Wing and Rotary-Wing), By Functionality (Autonomous Identification and Positioning and Manual Positioning), Range, Payload, Application and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Loitering Munition System Market is accounted for $1.19 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $3.42 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 16.2% during the forecast period. A loitering munition system is an autonomous, unmanned aerial vehicle designed for prolonged surveillance and engagement capabilities. Combining reconnaissance and strike capabilities, it loiters in the target area, providing real-time intelligence. When a high-value target is identified, the system can be directed to engage, serving as both a sensor and a precision-guided munition for dynamic and time-sensitive scenarios.

According to the US Department of Defense (DoD), the 2023 Fiscal Year President's Budget Request projects spending on unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to reach $11.5 billion, which includes allocations for loitering munitions.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Increasing demand for loitering munition systems in special forces

The rising demand for Loitering Munition Systems in special forces can be attributed to their unique capabilities. These systems offer special forces the advantage of persistent surveillance, rapid response and precision strike capabilities in dynamic operational environments. Their autonomous loitering ability allows for extended situational awareness, aiding in target identification and engagement. Moreover, special forces benefit from the versatility and agility of loitering munitions, enhancing their operational effectiveness and responsiveness to emerging threats on the battlefield.

Restraint:

Cost and complexity

The adoption of loitering munition systems is constrained by cost and complexity. The intricate technologies involved in creating autonomous, precision-guided platforms contribute to high development and manufacturing expenses. Additionally, the complexity of integrating advanced sensors, communication systems and artificial intelligence increases operational and maintenance challenges. These factors limit widespread implementation, particularly for budget-constrained entities.

Opportunity:

Rising defense spending in emerging markets

Rising defense spending in emerging markets presents a significant opportunity for the loitering munition system industry. As these nations invest in modernizing their military capabilities, there is an increased demand for advanced and cost-effective defense solutions. Loitering munition systems, offering versatile surveillance and engagement capabilities, align with the evolving defense requirements. The growing budgets in emerging markets create a favorable environment for the development, deployment and export of these autonomous and precision-guided munition systems.

Threat:

Stringent regulations and legal concerns

These advanced autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles raise ethical and legal challenges, including issues related to targeted killings, collateral damage and violations of international laws. Governments and regulatory bodies may impose restrictions to address concerns about accountability, transparency and adherence to humanitarian principles. Navigating complex legal frameworks, ensuring compliance with international laws and addressing public apprehension are critical challenges.

Covid-19 Impact:

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains, affecting the production and delivery of defense systems, including loitering munition systems. Defense budgets were reassessed as governments focused resources on healthcare and economic recovery. Deployment delays, budget constraints and shifting priorities within the defense sector impacted the market. Additionally, travel restrictions hindered international collaboration and defense trade. The pandemic-induced challenges slowed market growth, prompting reassessments and adaptations within the loitering munition system industry.

The rotary-wing segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The rotary-wing segment is anticipated to dominate the market throughout the forecast period due to its versatility and suitability for various mission profiles. Rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer agility, maneuverability and the ability to hover, making them ideal for applications such as surveillance, reconnaissance and targeted strikes. The demand is driven by military and defense requirements, including border surveillance, urban warfare and intelligence gathering. Furthermore, their adaptability to different operational scenarios contributes to the segment's sustained growth.

The navy segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The navy segment is projected to experience the highest growth rate during the forecast period due to increasing maritime security concerns globally. Naval forces are increasingly adopting unmanned systems for surveillance, reconnaissance and mine countermeasure operations. The use of unmanned maritime vehicles enhances naval capabilities, ensuring effective patrolling and safeguarding maritime borders. The rising emphasis on naval modernization and the integration of advanced technologies contribute to the segment's rapid growth.

Region with largest share:

North America is poised to lead the loitering munition system market with the largest market share during the forecast period. This dominance can be attributed to the region's robust defense budget, technological advancements and a strong focus on military modernization. Additionally, strategic partnerships between defense contractors and government agencies fuel the development and deployment of loitering munition systems. The region's emphasis on maintaining a technological edge in defense capabilities contributes to its prominent position in the market.

Region with highest CAGR:

The Asia-Pacific region is positioned for rapid growth in the loitering munition system market during the forecast period. This growth is fueled by escalating geopolitical tensions, increasing defense spending and a focus on enhancing military capabilities. Countries in the region are investing in modernizing their defense forces, with a particular emphasis on unmanned systems. The rising threat landscape and the need for advanced defense technologies contribute to the significant growth potential for loitering munition systems in the Asia-Pacific market.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players in Loitering Munition System Market include Adcom Systems, AeroVironment, Inc., Baykar Defense, BlueBird Aero Systems, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), Denel Dynamics, Elbit Systems Ltd., Harpy Aviation, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., Lockheed Martin Corporation, MBDA, Northrop Grumman Corporation, QinetiQ Group plc, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd., Roketsan, Textron Inc., Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) and UVision Air Ltd.

Key Developments:

In September 2023, Elbit Systems Ltd. announced that it was awarded a $95 million contract to supply SkyStriker loitering munitions (LM) to a European country. The contract will be carried out over a period of two years.

In August 2023, Israeli manufacturer UVision tested its Hero-120 loitering munition for the first time in the Arctic, as company officials say they are looking to expand their footprint in the region. Earlier this year, in a location the company did not disclose, where temperatures reached below -20 degrees Celsius, UVision conducted a series of flight missions to assess the capabilities of the Hero-120 loitering munition under extreme weather conditions.

In June 2023, UVision and Axxeum recently launched a loitering munition from an airborne helicopter. The trial saw a Bell 412EP helicopter launching a Hero 120 loitering munition to strike a land target during the EDGE 23 event in May at the Yuma Proving Ground. The Hero 120 has a communication range of 40 kilometers (25 miles) and a warhead of 4.5 kilograms (10 pounds).

Types Covered:
• Fixed-Wing
• Rotary-Wing

Functionalities Covered:
• Autonomous Identification and Positioning
• Manual Positioning

Ranges Covered:
• Short-Range
• Medium-Range
• Long-Range

Payloads Covered:
• Explosive Payload
• Non-Explosive Payload

Applications Covered:
• Navy
• Army
• Air Force

Regions Covered:
• North America
US
Canada
Mexico
• Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
France
Spain
Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
Australia
New Zealand
South Korea
Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Qatar
South Africa
Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2026, and 2030
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements