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    Infrared Search Track System Market

    ID: MRFR/A&D/8668-HCR
    174 Pages
    Sejal Akre
    September 2025

    Infrared Search Track (IRST) System Market Research Report Information By Component (Scanning Head, Processing Control Electronics and Display), Platform (Land, Maritime, Airborne and Space), End User (Civil and Defense) and Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East Africa and Latin America) - Forecast till 2030

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    Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Research Report - Global Forecast till 2030 Infographic
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    Table of Contents

    Infrared Search Track System Market Summary

    As per Market Research Future Analysis, the Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market is projected to reach USD 7.03 Billion, with a CAGR of 5.6% from 2020 to 2030. The market is driven by advancements in technology and increasing military operations, particularly in response to rising terrorist threats. The IRST systems are crucial for detecting and tracking objects emitting infrared radiation, including aircraft and UAVs. The demand for enhanced security and defense capabilities is propelling market growth, with significant investments in defense activities worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges, but government support for IRST adoption has stabilized growth. Key market segments include land, maritime, airborne, and space platforms, with the defense sector being the largest end-user. North America leads the market, followed by Europe and the Asia Pacific, where defense expenditures are increasing.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    The Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market is witnessing significant growth driven by technological advancements and defense needs.

    • Market projected to reach USD 7.03 Billion by 2030; CAGR of 5.6% from 2020 to 2030.
    • North America dominates the market due to prominent players and high defense spending.
    • Defense segment accounted for the largest market share, driven by military demand for IRST solutions.
    • Land segment expected to project highest CAGR due to military surveillance needs.

    Market Size & Forecast

    Market Size USD 7.03 Billion
    CAGR 5.6% (2020-2030)
    Largest Regional Market North America

    Major Players

    Aselsan AS (Turkey), HGH Systèmes Infrarouges (France), Leonardo Spa (Italy), Lockheed Martin Corporation (US), Northrop Grumman Corporation (US), Raytheon Company (US), Rheinmetall AG (Germany), Safran SA (France), Thales Group (France), Tonbo Imaging Private Limited (India)

    Infrared Search Track System Market Trends

    The ongoing advancements in infrared search and track systems are poised to enhance situational awareness and target acquisition capabilities across various military platforms, reflecting a broader trend towards integrated defense technologies.

    U.S. Department of Defense

    Infrared Search Track System Market Drivers

    Geopolitical Tensions

    Geopolitical tensions across various regions are significantly influencing the Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Industry. Heightened security concerns and regional conflicts prompt nations to bolster their defense capabilities, particularly in surveillance and reconnaissance. Countries in Eastern Europe and the Asia-Pacific region are increasingly investing in IRST systems to counter perceived threats. This strategic focus on enhancing military readiness is expected to drive market growth, as nations seek to acquire advanced technologies that provide a tactical edge. The ongoing geopolitical landscape suggests a sustained demand for IRST systems in the coming years.

    Rising Defense Budgets

    The Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Industry is experiencing growth driven by increasing defense budgets across various nations. Countries are prioritizing advanced surveillance and tracking systems to enhance their military capabilities. For instance, the United States has allocated substantial funds for modernizing its defense systems, which includes investments in IRST technologies. This trend is mirrored in nations such as India and China, which are also ramping up their military expenditures. The anticipated market value of the Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market is projected to reach 5.02 USD Billion in 2024, indicating a robust demand for these systems.

    Market Growth Projections

    The Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Industry is projected to experience substantial growth over the next decade. With a market value expected to reach 5.02 USD Billion in 2024 and 9.23 USD Billion by 2035, the industry is poised for a robust expansion. The anticipated compound annual growth rate of 5.69% from 2025 to 2035 reflects the increasing investments in advanced military technologies and the growing demand for enhanced surveillance capabilities. This growth is indicative of the broader trends in defense spending and technological innovation, positioning the IRST market as a critical component of future military strategies.

    Technological Advancements

    Technological advancements play a pivotal role in shaping the Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Industry. Innovations in sensor technology, data processing, and integration capabilities are enhancing the effectiveness of IRST systems. For example, the development of advanced infrared sensors allows for improved target detection and tracking in diverse environments. These advancements not only increase operational efficiency but also reduce the likelihood of detection by adversaries. As a result, the market is expected to grow significantly, with projections indicating a value of 9.23 USD Billion by 2035, reflecting the ongoing evolution of military technologies.

    Growing Demand for Airborne Systems

    The Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Industry is witnessing a surge in demand for airborne systems, particularly in military aviation. The need for enhanced situational awareness and threat detection in aerial operations is driving this trend. Modern fighter jets and unmanned aerial vehicles are increasingly equipped with IRST systems to improve their combat effectiveness. For instance, the integration of IRST capabilities in platforms such as the F-35 Lightning II has demonstrated the strategic advantages of these systems. This growing emphasis on airborne applications is likely to contribute to a compound annual growth rate of 5.69% from 2025 to 2035.

    Increased Focus on Asymmetric Warfare

    The Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Industry is also shaped by an increased focus on asymmetric warfare tactics. As military engagements evolve, there is a growing recognition of the need for advanced surveillance systems that can operate effectively in unconventional combat scenarios. IRST systems provide critical capabilities for detecting and tracking low-observable targets, which are often employed in asymmetric warfare. This shift in military strategy is likely to drive demand for IRST technologies, as armed forces seek to enhance their operational effectiveness against non-traditional threats. The market's growth trajectory appears promising as these systems become integral to modern military operations.

    Market Segment Insights

    Regional Insights

    Key Companies in the Infrared Search Track System Market market include

    Industry Developments

    Swedish Defense and Aerospace Company (Saab) will release the new E-Series Gripen Fighter Jets to the Czech Air Force as a lease for the C/D Series is expiring soon.

    India’s new super fighter Tejas Mk-2 has become one of the top 4 Light Combat Aircraft worldwide along with ‘IDOL’ Saab Gripen.

    According to recent reports, the Air Force is demanding up to 400 advanced fighter trainers aircraft to train the pilots.

    Report Overview

    The overview of the Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Analysis report states that the market has shown a consistent growth rate since recent years, and it will continue its growth consistency in the upcoming years to reach a good CAGR. The various segments of the market are accelerating the growth of the  Market through its services worldwide. The key drivers in different geographical regions are boosting the regional market, helping the Industry Outlook emerge in the global competition.

    Key Industrial Segments

    By Component

      • Scanning Head
      • Processing & Control Electronics 
      • Display

    By Platform

      • Land
      • Maritime
      • Airborne
      • Space

    By End-User

      • Civil
      • Defense

    Future Outlook

    Infrared Search Track System Market Future Outlook

    The Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market is projected to grow at a 5.69% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by advancements in military technology and increasing defense budgets.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Develop next-generation IRST systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to enhance surveillance capabilities.
    • Invest in AI integration for real-time data processing and threat assessment in IRST applications.
    • Expand partnerships with defense contractors to secure government contracts for advanced IRST solutions.

    By 2035, the Infrared Search & Track System Market is poised for robust growth, reflecting evolving defense needs and technological advancements.

    Market Segmentation

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric Details
      Market Size   USD 7.03 Billion
      CAGR   5.6% (2020-2030)
      Base Year   2019
      Forecast Period   2020-2030
      Historical Data   2018
      Forecast Units   Value (USD Million)
      Report Coverage   Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
      Segments Covered   Component, Platform and End User
      Geographies Covered   North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World (RoW)
      Key Vendors   Aselsan AS (Turkey), HGH Systèmes Infrarouges (France), Leonardo Spa (Italy), Lockheed Martin Corporation (US), Northrop Grumman Corporation (US), Raytheon Company (US), Rheinmetall AG (Germany), Safran SA (France), Thales Group (France) and Tonbo Imaging Private Limited (India)
      Key Market Opportunities   Increasing need to upgrade situational awareness systems
      Key Market Drivers

  • Increasing Defense Expenditures
  • Increasing Need for Enhanced Situational Awareness
  • Enhanced Security and Immunity Over Radars
  • 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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    FAQs

    What is the projected market value of the Global IRST Market?

    Global IRST Market is expected to record a substantial market valuation of USD 7.03 billion by 2030.

    What is the estimated growth rate of the Global IRST Market?

    Global IRST Market is projected to register a moderate 5.6% CAGR in the forecast period.

    Who are the significant players operative in the Global IRST Market?

    A few eminent market players operating in the global IRST market are Rheinmetall AG (Germany), Safran SA (France), Thales Group (France), among others.

    What is the end-users segment of the Global IRST Market expected to witness the highest growth?

    The civil segment is slated to expand as the fastest-growing segment.

    1. 'Table of Contents
    2. Executive Summary
      1. Market Attractiveness Analysis
        1. Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market, by Component
        2. Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market, by Platform
        3. Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market, by End User
        4. Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market, by Region
    3. Market Introduction
      1. Market Definition
      2. Scope of the Study
      3. Market Structure
      4. Key Buying Criteria
      5. Market Factor Indicator
    4. Analysis
    5. Research Methodology
      1. Research Process
      2. Primary
    6. Research
      1. Secondary Research
      2. Market Size Estimation
    7. Forecast Model
      1. List of Assumptions
    8. Market Insights
    9. Market
    10. Dynamics
      1. Introduction
      2. Drivers
        1. Increasing Need for
    11. Enhanced Situational Awareness
      1. Increasing Defense Expenditure
    12. Enhanced Security and Immunity Over Radars
      1. Drivers Impact Analysis
      2. Restraint
        1. Limited Operational Range of IRST System
    13. Opportunities
      1. Increased Focus on Military Modernization
      2. Market/Technological
    14. Trends
      1. Patent Trends
      2. Regulatory Landscape/Standards
    15. Market Factor Analysis
      1. Value Chain/Supply Chain Analysis
        1. R&D
        2. Manufacturing
        3. Distribution & Sales
        4. Post-Sales
    16. Monitoring
      1. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
        1. Threat of New
    17. Entrants
      1. Bargaining Power of Buyers
        1. Threat of Substitutes
        2. Segment Rivalry
        3. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    18. Global
    19. Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market, by Component
      1. Introduction
      2. Scanning Head
      3. Processing & Control Electronics
      4. Display
    20. Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market, by Platform
    21. Introduction
      1. Land
      2. Maritime
      3. Airborne
      4. Space
    22. Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market, by End User
    23. Introduction
      1. Civil
      2. Defense
    24. Global Infrared Search &
    25. Track (IRST) System Market, by Region
      1. Introduction
      2. North America
        1. US
        2. Canada
      3. Europe
        1. UK
    26. Germany
      1. France
        1. Italy
        2. Rest of Europe
    27. Asia-Pacific
      1. China
        1. Japan
        2. India
    28. Australia
      1. Rest of Asia-Pacific
      2. Middle East & Africa
        1. Saudi Arabia
        2. UAE
        3. Rest of Middle East & Africa
      3. Latin America
        1. Brazil
        2. Rest of Latin America
    29. Competitive Landscape
      1. Competitive Overview
      2. Competitor
    30. Dashboard
      1. Major Growth Key Strategies in the Global Infrared Search &
    31. Track (IRST) System Market
      1. Competitive Benchmarking
      2. Market
    32. Share Analysis
      1. Leading Player in terms of the Number of Developments
    33. in the Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market
      1. Key Developments
    34. & Growth Strategies
      1. New Product Launch/Service Platform
    35. Merger & Acquisition
      1. Joint Ventures
    36. Company Profiles
      1. Key Market Players
    37. (Company overview, financial updates, products &
    38. service offered, key developments, SWOT analysis, and key strategies to be provided
    39. for all the listed companies)
      1. Aselsan AS
        1. HGH Systèmes
    40. Infrarouges
      1. Leonardo Spa
        1. Lockheed Martin Corporation
        2. Northrop Grumman Corporation
        3. Raytheon Company
    41. Rheinmetall AG
      1. Safran SA
        1. Thales Group
        2. Tonbo
    42. Imaging Private Limited
    43. Appendix
      1. References
      2. Related
    44. Reports
      1. List of Abbreviation 
    45. OF ASSUMPTIONS
    46. (IRST) SYSTEM (2020-2030)
    47. (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    48. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    49. USER: GLOBAL INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    50. (USD MILLION)
    51. MARKET, BY COUNTRY, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    52. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    53. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    54. (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    55. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    56. (USD MILLION)
    57. BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    58. TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    59. CANADA: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030
    60. (USD MILLION)
    61. BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    62. TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COUNTRY, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    63. INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    64. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    65. SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    66. & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    67. UK: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030
    68. (USD MILLION)
    69. BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    70. TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    71. GERMANY: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030
    72. (USD MILLION)
    73. BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    74. TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    75. FRANCE: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030
    76. (USD MILLION)
    77. BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    78. TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    79. ITALY: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030
    80. (USD MILLION)
    81. BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    82. & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    83. REST OF EUROPE: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM,
    84. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    85. (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    86. INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COUNTRY, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    87. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    88. (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    89. INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    90. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    91. SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    92. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    93. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    94. SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    95. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    96. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    97. SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    98. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    99. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    100. SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    101. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    102. BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    103. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    104. BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    105. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COUNTRY, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    106. BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    107. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    108. BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    109. & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    110. SAUDI ARABIA: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM,
    111. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    112. (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    113. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    114. (USD MILLION)
    115. BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    116. AFRICA: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030
    117. (USD MILLION)
    118. & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    119. REST OF THE MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM
    120. MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    121. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY COUNTRY, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    122. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    123. (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    124. INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    125. 2030 (USD MILLION)
    126. SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    127. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY END USER, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    128. BY COMPONENT, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    129. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    130. BY FREQUENCY- BAND, 2020-2030 (USD MILLION)
    131. IN THE GLOBAL INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET
    132. AND AGREEMENTS
    133. INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET: MARKET ATTRACTIVENESS ANALYSIS
    134. COMPONENT
    135. ANALYSIS, BY PLATFORM
    136. MARKET ANALYSIS, BY END USER
    137. SYSTEM MARKET ANALYSIS, BY REGION
    138. (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET: MARKET STRUCTURE
    139. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM COMPONENTS
    140. VS 2030
    141. VS 2030
    142. ANALYSIS: GLOBAL INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET
    143. CHALLENGES IMPACT ANALYSIS: GLOBAL INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET
    144. TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET
    145. TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET
    146. SYSTEM MARKET SHARE, BY COMPONENT, 2020 (% SHARE)
    147. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET SHARE, BY END USER, 2020 (% SHARE)
    148. GLOBAL INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET SHARE, BY REGION, 2020
    149. (% SHARE)
    150. MARKET SHARE, BY COUNTRY, 2020 (% SHARE)
    151. & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET SHARE, BY COUNTRY, 2020 (% SHARE)
    152. ASIA-PACIFIC: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET SHARE, BY COUNTRY,
    153. (% SHARE)
    154. (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET SHARE, BY COUNTRY, 2020 (% SHARE)
    155. INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET SHARE, BY COUNTRY, 2020 (% SHARE)
    156. MARKET
    157. & AGREEMENTS: THE MAJOR STRATEGY ADOPTED BY KEY PLAYERS IN THE GLOBAL INFRARED
    158. SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET

    Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Segmentation

    Market Segmentation Overview

    • Detailed segmentation data will be available in the full report
    • Comprehensive analysis by multiple parameters
    • Regional and country-level breakdowns
    • Market size forecasts by segment
    Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Research Report - Global Forecast till 2030 Infographic
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