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    Infrared Search Track System Market Analysis

    ID: MRFR/A&D/8668-HCR
    174 Pages
    Sejal Akre
    October 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 2035

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    Market Analysis

    In-depth Analysis of Infrared Search Track System Market Industry Landscape

    The market of Infrared Search and Track (IRST) Systems is influenced by a number of factors that collectively shape its dynamics, reflecting the importance placed on these systems in current military operations. The need to continuously improve the performance of infrared sensing technology constitutes one of the main drivers of this market. As countries strive to enhance their defense capabilities, they create demand for IRST systems and therefore market dynamics marked by an ongoing race towards improved detection ranges, accuracy and target identification capabilities. This factor has been met by the market through encouraging innovation to meet changing needs among armed forces worldwide.

    Geopolitical considerations are crucial in shaping the dynamics of IRST System Market. The requirement for IRST systems differs from country to country depending on prevailing security challenges and other geopolitical tensions. Consequently, as a result of adjusting to these demands, the marketplace provides IRST solutions specifically designed for different operating conditions and regional security challenges experienced by national militaries globally. Hence responding differently under diverse geopolitical situations calls for adaptability in designing IRST.

    Thus, changes in military doctrine and evolving nature of warfare have great impact on the IRST System Market. Military organizations require having IRST systems with advanced threat detection and tracking capabilities that can enhance situational awareness as a whole. Thus, developments in this area involve new concepts such as multi-target tracking or wide dynamic range sensors which are highly sensitive and can defeat emerging threats like UAV’s . Indeed the driving force behind this fact is reflected by necessity of creating versatile solutions capable to protect against various airborne threats.

    This paper identifies technological integration as central factor influencing dynamics of IRST Systems’ markets. In order to develop all-rounded defense architectures it is important to have seamless integration between infrared sensors with other sensor technologies as well as communication systems. Therefore emphasis must be put on development of modern ISTRs that would operate within integrated military networks thus leading to a more holistic defense infrastructure that is interconnected.

    Interoperability and collaboration among sensor systems are critical factors shaping the IRST System Market dynamics. The military’s need for IRST solutions that can be integrated with other sensor platforms like radar and electronic warfare systems to enhance detection at large dictates market dynamics. This has led to the production of IRST systems that are interoperable, thus allowing sensors within a military force to operate together better, hence a more robust defense system that is in sync.

    Market dynamics are shaped by the demand of having small-sized and light-weighted IRSTs. As such, modern military platforms tend to be more concerned about agility and multipurpose hence necessitating development of lightweight as well as space-efficient IRSTs. Consequently, advanced materials and miniaturization technologies have been fused into the market in order to ensure that ISTRs can be easily incorporated into different types of platforms without adding on weight or compromising their performance.

    This gives an insight into how global arms trade and defense budgets influence developments in the IRST System Market substantially. For instance, resources set aside for military upgrading determine whether countries will purchase this solution or not. This shifts in defence budgeting that occurs over time have been seen with firms manufacturing ISRTs aligning themselves with different nations according to their strategic goals and financial capabilities. Hence one may assume that wider trends in global defense expenditure overlap with specific requirements related to modernizing national sensing capabilities concerning the necessity for purchases involving this particular technology.

    The dynamics of the IRST system market are shaped by regulatory frameworks and ethical considerations. Complying with international regulations on arms trade, manufacturing ethics, and legal requirements governing the use of sensor systems is a must. The market dynamics ensure responsible production and trade that corresponds to global rules in accordance to the law for selling or making the IRST systems."

    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
    Key Growth Driver Increased defense expenditures.

    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)

    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 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 Overview

    Market Segmentation

    Report Scope

    {"0"=>{"market_size"=>"USD 7.03 Billion"}, "1"=>{"cagr"=>"5.6% (2020-2030)"}, "2"=>{"base_year"=>"2019"}, "3"=>{"forecast_period"=>"2020-2030"}, "4"=>{"historical_data"=>"2018"}, "5"=>{"forecast_units"=>"Value (USD Million)"}, "6"=>{"report_coverage"=>"Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends"}, "7"=>{"segments_covered"=>"Component, Platform and End User"}, "8"=>{"geographies_covered"=>"North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World (RoW)"}, "9"=>{"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)\r\n"}, "10"=>{"key_market_opportunities"=>"Increasing need to upgrade situational awareness systems"}, "11"=>{"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 holds an experience of about 6+ years in market research and business consulting, working under the spectrum of information communication technology, telecommunications and semiconductor domains. aarti conceptualizes and implements a scalable business strategy and provides strategic leadership to the clients. her expertise lies in market estimation, competitive intelligence, pipeline analysis, customer assessment, etc.

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    This is a great article! Really helped me understand the topic better.

    Posted on July 23, 2025, 10:15 AM
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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. 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
      2. Market Definition
      3. Scope of the Study
      4. Market Structure
      5. Key Buying Criteria
      6. Market Factor Indicator
    2. Research Methodology
      1. Research Process
      2. Primary
      3. Secondary Research
      4. Market Size Estimation
      5. List of Assumptions
    3. Market Insights
    4. Market
      1. Introduction
      2. Drivers
        1. Increasing Need for
        2. Increasing Defense Expenditure
        3. Drivers Impact Analysis
      3. Restraint
        1. Limited Operational Range of IRST System
        2. Increased Focus on Military Modernization
      4. Market/Technological
      5. Patent Trends
      6. Regulatory Landscape/Standards
      7. Value Chain/Supply Chain Analysis
        1. R&D
        2. Manufacturing
        3. Distribution & Sales
        4. Post-Sales
      8. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
        1. Threat of New
        2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
        3. Threat of Substitutes
        4. Segment Rivalry
        5. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    5. Global
      1. Introduction
      2. Scanning Head
      3. Processing & Control Electronics
      4. Display
    6. Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market, by Platform
      1. Land
      2. Maritime
      3. Airborne
      4. Space
    7. Global Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market, by End User
      1. Civil
      2. Defense
    8. Global Infrared Search &
      1. Introduction
      2. North America
        1. US
        2. Canada
      3. Europe
        1. UK
        2. France
        3. Italy
        4. Rest of Europe
        5. China
        6. Japan
        7. India
        8. Rest of Asia-Pacific
      4. Middle East & Africa
        1. Saudi Arabia
        2. UAE
        3. Rest of Middle East & Africa
      5. Latin America
        1. Brazil
        2. Rest of Latin America
    9. Competitive Landscape
      1. Competitive Overview
      2. Competitor
      3. Major Growth Key Strategies in the Global Infrared Search &
      4. Competitive Benchmarking
      5. Market
      6. Leading Player in terms of the Number of Developments
      7. Key Developments
        1. New Product Launch/Service Platform
        2. Joint Ventures
    10. Company Profiles
      1. Key Market Players
        1. Aselsan AS
        2. HGH Systèmes
        3. Leonardo Spa
        4. Lockheed Martin Corporation
        5. Northrop Grumman Corporation
        6. Raytheon Company
        7. Safran SA
        8. Thales Group
        9. Tonbo
    11. Appendix
      1. References
      2. Related
      3. List of Abbreviation 
    12. UK: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM, 2020-2030
    13. REST OF EUROPE: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM,
    14. SAUDI ARABIA: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET, BY PLATFORM,
    15. REST OF THE MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA: INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM
    16. VS 2030
    17. VS 2030
    18. GLOBAL INFRARED SEARCH & TRACK (IRST) SYSTEM MARKET SHARE, BY REGION, 2020
    19. (% SHARE)

    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
    Infographic

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