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    Aircraft Weapons Market

    ID: MRFR/A&D/12470-HCR
    128 Pages
    Sejal Akre
    October 2025

    Aircraft Weapons Market Research Report Information By Guidance Systems (GPS-Guided Weapons, Laser-Guided Weapons, Inertial-Guided Weapons, Autonomous Weapons, and Others), By Aircraft Type (Fixed-Wing Aircraft, Rotary-Wing Aircraft, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVS)), By Range (Short-Range Weapons, Medium-Range Weapons, and Long-Range Weapons), By Weapon Type (Air-To-Air Weapons, Air-To-Ground Weapons, Anti-Ship Weapons, and Countermeasures), By End Use (Military, Army, Navy, Civilian, Law Enforcement, and Security Agencies), And By Regio...

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    Aircraft Weapons Market Infographic
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    Aircraft Weapons Market Summary

    The Global Aircraft Weapons Market is projected to grow significantly from 11.53 USD Billion in 2024 to 28.30 USD Billion by 2035.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    Aircraft Weapons Key Trends and Highlights

    • The market is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.51 percent from 2025 to 2035.
    • By 2035, the market valuation is anticipated to reach 28.3 USD Billion, indicating robust growth opportunities.
    • in 2024, the market is valued at 11.53 USD Billion, reflecting the increasing demand for advanced military capabilities.
    • Growing adoption of advanced weaponry due to rising geopolitical tensions is a major market driver.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size 11.53 (USD Billion)
    2035 Market Size 28.30 (USD Billion)
    CAGR (2025-2035) 8.50%

    Major Players

    Boeing Company, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, SAAB, Thales Group, Lockheed Martin, MDBA

    Aircraft Weapons Market Trends

    Increasing geopolitical tensions and military modernization are driving the market growth

    Market CAGR for aircraft weapons is being driven by surge in global geopolitical tensions. As nations face evolving security challenges and geopolitical uncertainties, there is a heightened demand for military capabilities to safeguard national interests. This demand triggers increased defense budgets, leading to the modernization of military forces, including the enhancement of airborne capabilities. Countries around the world seek to maintain or establish military superiority to protect their sovereignty and strategic interests, thereby driving the procurement of advanced aircraft weapons systems.

    Advancements in technology play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the aircraft weapons market. The ongoing development of sophisticated and precision-guided munitions (PGMs) represents a key driver fueling market growth. Precision-guided munitions offer unprecedented accuracy, minimizing collateral damage and increasing the effectiveness of military operations. The integration of advanced guidance systems, sensors, and artificial intelligence in munitions allows for precise targeting, enhancing the overall efficiency and success rates of aerial missions.

    Additionally, the perception of regional threats and the constant need for defense preparedness also serves as significant drivers for the aircraft weapons market. Nations often invest in strengthening their air power capabilities to deter potential adversaries and respond effectively to emerging security challenges. The presence of regional conflicts, territorial disputes, and the proliferation of non-state actors with access to advanced weaponry contribute to a sense of insecurity, prompting countries to enhance their aerial firepower.

    The ongoing advancements in precision-guided munitions and the increasing emphasis on unmanned aerial systems are reshaping the landscape of the global aircraft weapons market, indicating a shift towards more sophisticated and versatile military capabilities.

    U.S. Department of Defense

    Aircraft Weapons Market Drivers

    Market Charts Only

    Geopolitical Tensions

    Geopolitical tensions are a significant driver of the Global Aircraft Weapons Market Industry. Ongoing conflicts and territorial disputes compel nations to bolster their military capabilities, particularly in aerial warfare. For example, tensions in regions such as Eastern Europe and the South China Sea have led to increased military readiness and procurement of advanced aircraft weapons. This environment fosters a sense of urgency among governments to invest in their defense sectors, thereby stimulating market growth. As nations respond to perceived threats, the demand for sophisticated aircraft weapons is likely to rise, contributing to the overall expansion of the market.

    Increasing Defense Budgets

    The Global Aircraft Weapons Market Industry is experiencing growth due to increasing defense budgets across various nations. Countries are prioritizing military modernization and enhancing their aerial capabilities, leading to a surge in demand for advanced aircraft weapons. For instance, nations such as the United States and India have significantly increased their defense spending, with the U.S. projected to allocate approximately 11.5 USD Billion to aircraft weapons in 2024. This trend is expected to continue, as defense budgets are anticipated to rise, thereby driving the market towards an estimated value of 28.3 USD Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 8.51% from 2025 to 2035.

    Rise of Asymmetric Warfare

    The rise of asymmetric warfare is influencing the Global Aircraft Weapons Market Industry by necessitating the development of specialized aircraft weapons. Non-state actors and insurgent groups often employ unconventional tactics, prompting governments to adapt their military strategies. This adaptation includes the procurement of precision-guided munitions and unmanned aerial vehicles, which are effective in countering asymmetric threats. As military forces strive to address these challenges, the demand for tailored aircraft weapons is expected to increase. This shift not only impacts procurement decisions but also shapes the future landscape of aerial combat, driving innovation within the market.

    Technological Advancements

    Technological advancements play a pivotal role in shaping the Global Aircraft Weapons Market Industry. Innovations in weaponry, such as precision-guided munitions and smart bombs, enhance the effectiveness of aerial combat. The integration of artificial intelligence and advanced targeting systems into aircraft weapons systems is likely to improve operational efficiency and reduce collateral damage. As militaries seek to maintain a competitive edge, the demand for these advanced technologies is expected to rise. This shift towards modernization not only influences procurement strategies but also encourages collaboration between defense contractors and governments, further propelling market growth.

    Emerging Markets and Defense Collaborations

    Emerging markets are becoming increasingly relevant in the Global Aircraft Weapons Market Industry, as countries like Brazil, South Africa, and Indonesia seek to enhance their defense capabilities. These nations are investing in aircraft weapons to modernize their armed forces and participate in international defense collaborations. Joint ventures and partnerships between established defense contractors and emerging market governments are likely to facilitate technology transfer and local production. This trend not only supports the growth of the market but also fosters regional stability as nations enhance their military capabilities. The collaborative efforts are expected to contribute to the overall expansion of the market.

    Market Segment Insights

    Aircraft Weapons Guidance Systems Insights

    The Aircraft Weapons Market segmentation, based on Guidance Systems includes GPS-Guided Weapons, Laser-Guided Weapons, Inertial-Guided Weapons, Autonomous Weapons, and Others. The GPS-guided weapons segment dominated the market, accounting for a quarter of market revenue. This is linked to its widespread use and precision in targeting. GPS technology provides accurate and real-time location information, enhancing the effectiveness of weapons by ensuring precise navigation and target acquisition.

    Aircraft Weapons Aircraft Type Insights

    Aircraft Weapons Aircraft Type Insights

    The Aircraft Weapons Market segmentation, based on Aircraft Type includes Fixed-Wing Aircraft, Rotary-Wing Aircraft, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVS). The unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) segment dominated the market, accounting for more than one-third of market revenue. This is attributed to its increased demand for reconnaissance, surveillance, and combat missions.

    Aircraft Weapons Range Insights

    The Aircraft Weapons Market segmentation, based on Range includes Short-Range Weapons, Medium-Range Weapons, and Long-Range Weapons. The long-range weapons segment dominated the market, accounting for above one-third of market revenue. This is attributed to its strategic advantages in modern warfare scenarios. The ability to engage targets from a distance enhances the safety of aircraft and allows for preemptive strikes.

    Aircraft Weapons Weapon Type Insights

    The Aircraft Weapons Market segmentation, based on Weapon Types includes Air-To-Air Weapons, Air-To-Ground Weapons, Anti-Ship Weapons, and Countermeasures. The air-to-ground Weapons segment dominated the market, accounting for more than quarter of market revenue.  This is linked to the increasing focus on precision strikes against ground targets. Military operations often involve the need to engage and neutralize enemy positions, infrastructure, and threats on the ground.

    Figure 1: Aircraft Weapons Market, by Weapon Type, 2022 & 2032 (USD Billion)

    Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

    Aircraft Weapons End-Use Insights

    The Aircraft Weapons Market segmentation, based on End Use includes Military, Army, Navy, Civilian, Law Enforcement, and Security Agencies. The military segment dominated the market, accounting for more than one-third of the market share.  This is linked to the increasing focus on precision strikes against ground targets. Military operations often involve the need to engage and neutralize enemy positions, infrastructure, and threats on the ground.

    Get more detailed insights about Aircraft Weapons Market

    Regional Insights

    By region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World. The North American Aircraft Weapons market area will dominate this market. The region houses major defense contractors and aerospace companies that continuously innovate and develop cutting-edge aircraft weapons. The United States, with the largest defense budget globally, invests significantly in military modernization, driving the demand for advanced weapons systems.

    Further, the major countries studied in the market report are The US, Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

    Figure 2: AIRCRAFT WEAPONS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (USD Billion)

    AIRCRAFT WEAPONS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022

    Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

    Europe Aircraft Weapons market accounts for the second-largest market share. Europe, with its established defense industry and collaborative defense initiatives among European Union (EU) member states, plays a significant role in the aircraft weapons market. Further, the Germany Aircraft Weapons market held the largest market share, and the UK Aircraft Weapons market was the fastest-growing market in the European region

    The Asia-Pacific Aircraft Weapons Market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2023 to 2032. This is due to escalating regional tensions, territorial disputes, and the rapid modernization of military forces. Countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea are investing heavily in advanced aircraft and weapons systems to enhance their defense capabilities. Moreover, China’s Aircraft Weapons market held the largest market share, and the Indian Aircraft Weapons market was the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region.

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    Leading market players are investing heavily in research to stay at the forefront of technological advancements. Investing in the development of state-of-the-art guidance systems, materials, and manufacturing processes allows companies to offer cutting-edge products that meet the evolving demands of military and defense customers. Market participants are also Adopting a variety of strategic activities to expand their global presence, with important market developments including new product launches, Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, and investments. To expand and survive in a more competitive and rising market climate, Aircraft Weapons industry must offer modern innovative solutions.

    Portfolio Diversification is one of the key business moves used by manufacturers in the global Aircraft Weapons industry to increase the market share. In recent years, the Aircraft Weapons industry has offered some of the most significant innovation to Consumers. Major players in the Aircraft Weapons market, including Boeing Company, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, SAAB, and others, are attempting to increase market demand by investing in product development to increase their product line and cater to diverse consumer demand.

    Boeing, a premier global aerospace enterprise, specializes in the design, production, and maintenance of commercial aircraft, defense solutions, and space systems. With a robust presence in over 150 nations, Boeing stands as a leading U.S. exporter, harnessing a worldwide network of suppliers to promote economic growth, sustainability, and community development. Renowned for its innovation, Boeing's diverse workforce is dedicated to shaping the future, emphasizing sustainability, and upholding core values centered on safety, quality, and integrity. In November 2022, Boeing has implemented executive leadership changes and streamlined Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) divisions.

    The consolidation, effective immediately, reduces eight divisions to four—Vertical Lift, Mobility, Surveillance & Bombers, and Air Dominance, Space, Intelligence & Weapon Systems. This reorganization aims to enhance operational efficiency, first-time quality, and overall performance.

    Northrop Grumman is a global leader in defense and technology solutions, uniting big thinkers to innovate and enhance global security. Specializing in autonomous systems, cyber, space, and logistics, the company values diversity, offering a dynamic culture of innovation. With a commitment to excellence, employees receive world-class training, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities in engineering, IT, manufacturing, and cybersecurity. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, shaping the future of security worldwide. In September 2023, Northrop Grumman Corporation disclosed that the U.S.

    Air Force had granted the company an estimated $705 million contract to supply the Stand-in Attack Weapon (SiAW), an air-to-ground munition facilitating the transition to a new era of air power.

    Key Companies in the Aircraft Weapons Market market include

    Industry Developments

    January 2023: India has revealed intentions to allocate USD 552 million for the procurement of air defense and naval weapons. The plan involves integrating Halina missiles, launchers, and related support equipment into advanced light helicopters.

    November 2021: Turkish Aerospace Industries undertook the construction and integration of a directional infrared countermeasure system for the A400M multinational heavy transport aircraft.

    Future Outlook

    Aircraft Weapons Market Future Outlook

    The Aircraft Weapons Market is projected to grow at 8.50% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, driven by technological advancements, increasing defense budgets, and geopolitical tensions.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Invest in advanced precision-guided munitions to enhance targeting capabilities.
    • Develop unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) weapon systems for modern warfare.
    • Explore partnerships with defense contractors for innovative weapon technologies.

    By 2035, the Aircraft Weapons Market is expected to exhibit robust growth, reflecting evolving defense needs and technological innovations.

    Market Segmentation

    Aircraft Weapons Range Outlook

    • Short-Range Weapons
    • Medium-Range Weapons
    • Long-Range Weapons

    Aircraft Weapons End Use Outlook

    • Military
    • Army
    • Navy
    • Civilian
    • Law Enforcement
    • Security Agencies

    Aircraft Weapons Regional Outlook

    • US
    • Canada
    • Germany
    • France
    • UK
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Rest of Europe
    • China
    • Japan
    • India
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • Rest of Asia-Pacific
    • Middle East
    • Africa

    Aircraft Weapons Weapon Type Outlook

    • Air-to-Air Weapons
    • Air-to-Ground Weapons
    • Anti-Ship Weapons
    • Countermeasures

    Aircraft Weapons Aircraft Type Outlook

    • Fixed-Wing Aircraft
    • Rotary-Wing Aircraft
    • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

    Aircraft Weapons Guidance System Outlook

    • GPS-Guided Weapons
    • Laser-Guided Weapons
    • Inertial-Guided Weapons
    • Autonomous Weapons
    • Others

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric Details
    Market Size 2024 USD 11.53  Billion
    Market Size 2025 USD 12.5143  Billion
    Market Size 2035 28.30 (Value (USD Billion))
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 8.50% (2025 - 2035)
    Base Year 2024
    Market Forecast Period 2025 - 2035
    Historical Data 2018- 2022
    Market Forecast Units Value (USD Billion)
    Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Market Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Segments Covered Guidance Systems, Aircraft Type, Range, Weapon Type, End-Use, and Region
    Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World
    Countries Covered The US, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil
    Key Companies Profiled Boeing Company, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, SAAB, Thales Group, Lockheed Martin, and MDBA
    Key Market Opportunities ·       Technological Advancements and Precision-Guided Munitions are fostering market growth
    Key Market Dynamics ·       Rise in Geopolitical Tensions and Military Modernization are fueling the market growth

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Sejal Akre
    Senior Research Analyst

    She has over 5 years of rich experience, in market research and consulting providing valuable market insights to client. Hands on expertise in management consulting, and extensive knowledge in domain including ICT, Automotive & Transportation and Aerospace & Defense. She is skilled in Go-to market strategy, industry analysis, market sizing, in depth company profiling, competitive intelligence & benchmarking and value chain amongst others.

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    The Aircraft Weapons Market 11.53 Billion USD by 2024

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