info@marketresearchfuture.com   📞  +1 (855) 661-4441(US)   📞  +44 1720 412 167(UK)
Certified Global Research Member
Isomar fd.webp Wcrc 57.webp
Key Questions Answered
  • Global Market Outlook
  • In-depth analysis of global and regional trends
  • Analyze and identify the major players in the market, their market share, key developments, etc.
  • To understand the capability of the major players based on products offered, financials, and strategies.
  • Identify disrupting products, companies, and trends.
  • To identify opportunities in the market.
  • Analyze the key challenges in the market.
  • Analyze the regional penetration of players, products, and services in the market.
  • Comparison of major players’ financial performance.
  • Evaluate strategies adopted by major players.
  • Recommendations
Why Choose Market Research Future?
  • Vigorous research methodologies for specific market.
  • Knowledge partners across the globe
  • Large network of partner consultants.
  • Ever-increasing/ Escalating data base with quarterly monitoring of various markets
  • Trusted by fortune 500 companies/startups/ universities/organizations
  • Large database of 5000+ markets reports.
  • Effective and prompt pre- and post-sales support.

Mid Wave Infrared MWIR Sensors Market Share

ID: MRFR//9935-CR | 188 Pages | Author: Garvit Vyas| March 2023

Medium-wave infrared thermal cameras, also known as cooled thermal cameras, are specialized devices that can spot small objects at significant distances, making them particularly useful for long-range applications, especially in challenging weather conditions. These cameras operate within the medium-wave infrared (MWIR) band of the electromagnetic spectrum, capturing infrared light in the 3 to 5 micrometer range.

The distinctive feature of cooled thermal imaging cameras, or MWIR cameras, is the use of an integrated cryogenic cooler. This cooler brings down the temperature of the thermal image core to extremely low levels, as low as -196°C (-321°F). The purpose of this cooling mechanism is to enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of the thermal image. These cameras are particularly effective in scenarios where precise thermal detection is crucial.

Compared to long-wave infrared (LWIR) systems, MWIR systems are less affected by humidity, making them well-suited for applications such as coastal surveillance, vessel traffic monitoring, or harbor protection. In various climates, MWIR exhibits better air transmission than LWIR, especially when it comes to detecting targets at very long ranges, such as 10 kilometers or more. This advantage makes MWIR a preferred choice for surveillance applications that require extended coverage.

One significant factor contributing to the preference for MWIR is the higher thermal contrast it offers. Thermal contrast refers to the ratio of the target's thermal flux (heat) to the background's thermal flux. In the MWIR band, this contrast is typically higher than in LWIR, contributing to clearer and more discernible thermal images. The enhanced thermal contrast is one of the key reasons why MWIR technology is favored when budget considerations allow.

Moreover, MWIR proves to be a superior option for detecting aircraft or missiles. This is because hot exhaust plumes, which are crucial indicators in such scenarios, are much more visible in the MWIR spectrum compared to LWIR. The ability to detect these thermal signatures accurately is essential for applications like military surveillance and defense systems.

In simpler terms, cooled thermal cameras operate in a specific part of the infrared spectrum, allowing them to see heat signatures from objects even in challenging conditions like bad weather. These cameras are equipped with a cooling mechanism that makes them highly sensitive and accurate. They excel in long-range applications, especially where spotting small objects at a considerable distance is crucial. Additionally, they are less affected by humidity, making them suitable for tasks like monitoring coastlines or protecting harbors.

The advantages of medium-wave infrared cameras become even more apparent when compared to long-wave infrared systems. They have better performance in various climates and are particularly effective in detecting targets over long distances. This makes them a preferred choice for surveillance applications that demand extensive coverage.

Furthermore, medium-wave infrared cameras provide clearer thermal images due to higher thermal contrast. This makes them a top choice when precise thermal detection is essential, especially in situations where budgets allow for this advanced technology. Additionally, in scenarios involving aircraft or missiles, medium-wave infrared proves to be superior, as it can more effectively capture the visible thermal signatures, like hot exhaust plumes.

The medium-wave infrared thermal cameras, with their cooling technology and specific infrared sensitivity, offer advanced capabilities for long-range applications, making them valuable tools in various fields, from surveillance to defense.

Covered Aspects:

Report Attribute/Metric Details
Base Year For Estimation 2021
Historical Data 2018-2020
Forecast Period 2022-2030
Growth Rate 11.1% (2022-2030)

Global Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Market Overview


The Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors market industry is projected to grow from USD 2.20 Billion in 2022 to USD 18.70 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.40% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032). Middle Wave cameras are used to detect gas leaks, which are sometimes completely invisible to the naked eye. The wavelength range of 3.0 - 5.0 m is commonly used to describe MWIR. Because of the strong spectrum absorption of the environment in this range, the MWIR wave band is completely useless for thermal imaging. The electromagnetic spectrum is frequently divided in the thermal imaging sector based on the response of various IR detectors. Hot plumes can be detected via mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR) detection.


Photodetectors, sensors, and imagers working in the MWIR range are gaining popularity due to their importance in a wide range of applications, including industrial processes, environmental monitoring, free-space communication, imaging systems, and light detection and ranging systems. Gas species concentration measurement is critical in many areas of modern life.


FIGURE 1 MID-WAVE INFRARED (MWIR) SENSORS MARKET 2018-2030


MID-WAVE INFRARED (MWIR) SENSORS MARKET


Source Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review


Covid-19 Analysis


As a result of COVID-19, the MWIR sensor industry has faced significant challenges. Sensor demand and consumption are influenced by pandemics' power to promote innovative behaviors and social formations. The number of sensors and sensor components has expanded throughout the industry. In recent years, MWIR sensors have experienced extensive application in the industrial market. For this reason, FLIR Systems has introduced a new mid-wave infrared (MWIR) thermal camera to its range. The camera, known as the FLIR RS8500 MWIR, combines a mid-wave infrared detector with a telescope. It is intended to aid in the collection of data on long-range and high-temperature targets in difficult situations. Also suitable for a variety of other applications. Teledyne FLIR, a division of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, has introduced the Neutrino LC CZ 15-300, the most recent Neutrino IS series type of mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR) camera modules with integrated continuous zoom (CZ) lenses. The ITAR-free Neutrino IS series, designed for integrated systems requiring crisp, long range, SD, or HD MWIR imaging, delivers size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP+C) benefits to original equipment manufacturers (OEM) and system integrators for airborne, unmanned, C-UAS, security, ISR, and targeting applications. Slower demand growth has almost occurred due to decreased economic activity caused by COVID-19. Reduced sensor creation was caused by falling industrial production. Consumers and businesses are adopting new technology and discovering its benefits as the world confronts the same threat. Sensor technologies for the Internet of Things have been crucial. Sensors helped people survive the pandemic's harshest phase. This pandemic has impacted the public view of IoT.


Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Market Driver



  • MWIR (Mid-Wave Infrared) Cooled Thermal Imaging Surveillance Longer Range Than LWIR (Long-Wave Infrared)


Medium-wave infrared thermal cameras, sometimes known as cooled thermal cameras, can identify small targets at great distances, making them ideal for long-range applications in inclement weather. The medium-wave infrared (MWIR) band of the electromagnetic spectrum catches infrared light in the 3 to 5 micrometre medium-wave infrared (LWIR) spectrum. Cooled thermal imaging cameras, also known as MWIR Mid-wave Infrared imaging, use an incorporated cryogenic cooler to chill the thermal image core to temperatures as low as -196°C (-321°F) to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of the thermal image. For most target ranges, MWIR systems are less impacted by humidity than LWIR systems, making them ideal for applications such as coastal surveillance, vessel traffic surveillance or harbour protection.



  • Advancement In Technology Such As Turbulence Mitigation, And Artificial Intelligence (AI)


Based solely on the image data, software-based turbulence mitigation technologies strive to stabilise and sharpen recorded image sequences. Although successful restoration of static scenes has been accomplished in the past, a fundamental problem remains in accounting for moving items so that they remain evident as moving objects in the output. The goal of software-based turbulence mitigation systems is to reconstruct recorded image sequences using only the image data. The purpose of these algorithms is to provide clear and steady imaging of the observed scene, allowing for visual detection, recognition, and identification at greater distances.


In the current public health crisis, having the technical means to detect probable cases of infection is critical. Infrared temperature measurement devices powered by AI algorithms have been created, boosting the effectiveness of temperature controls. AI can identify and quantify temperature on a person's face and other regions that best reflect core body temperature all without physical contact. These temperature controls are quick and easy to use, making screening easier.


Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Market Opportunity



  • High Performance MWIR for Deployment on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)


All objects with a temperature greater than absolute zero emit infrared radiation. Because the amount of radiation emitted by an item rises with its temperature, and so temperature variations can be detected by infrared sensors mounted on unmanned vehicles such as UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and utilised to create a picture. In order to record thermal and visual data during the same flight or journey, infrared (IR) cameras are mounted on the same autonomous vehicle payload. Typically, the cameras will be paired with a multi-axis gimbal to ensure optimal stability during image acquisition, decreasing the effect of vibrations, sudden impacts, and motions. Several drone manufacturers offer a whole thermal imaging system that includes a UAV, stabilising gimbal, and imaging payload. Unmanned infrared imaging systems can be used to search for and monitor humans for security, search and rescue, and law enforcement, as well as animals for wildlife conservation. IR imaging systems can also be used to detect gas leaks and insulation problems, as well as to monitor the flow of thermal energy in residences or industrial buildings. A UAV with an infrared imaging camera payload may also examine large banks of solar panels for flaws swiftly and efficiently.


As technology in this intriguing field evolves, drone pilots are discovering new opportunities to use thermal imaging sensors. Drones outfitted with thermal cameras are now commonly used to improve solar plant performance, monitor, and inspect livestock, identify thermal runaway switches on electrical supply lines, inspect mine infrastructure, maintain agricultural systems, and assist in search and rescue missions. As drone technology advances and new sectors discover applications for remotely operated drones, the use cases for drones outfitted with thermal cameras will only expand.


However, high cost associated with MWIR may hamper the growth of market in forecast period. Cooled thermal imaging cameras, also known as MWIR Mid-wave Infrared imaging, use an incorporated cryogenic cooler to chill the thermal image core to temperatures as low as -196°C (-321°F) to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of the thermal image. Uncooled cameras use a VoX infrared sensor and are frequently uncooled, operating on the LWIR long wave infrared wavelength. Cooled Thermal cameras have a broader range than uncooled cameras due to their higher sensitivity, which allows for larger, less efficient lenses than LWIR cameras. Based on DRI military requirements, the 801400mm cooled thermal cameras can detect vehicles up to 55km (34 miles) away, making them the ideal choice for long range night vision, but they are more expensive than ordinary uncooled LWIR cameras. There are MWIR Cooled and LWIR Uncooled infrared modules available in 640x512, 1024x720, 1280x1024, and 1920x1080 resolutions up to 5MP.


Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Market Segment Insights


Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Type Insights


The global Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensor’s market, in this report, has been segmented on the basis of Type into Cooled Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors and High Operating Temperature (HOT) Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors. During the projected period, the demand for High Operating Temperature (HOT) Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors is expected to grow rapidly.


Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Application Insights


The Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors market in this report has been segmented on the basis of Application into two types, namely Aerospace & Defense and Commercial. During the projected period, the commercial segment is expected to rise rapidly. The commercial segment further segmented into, Semiconductor Inspections, Industrial Inspections, Non-Destructive Testing, Gas Leak Detections and Others. Aerospace & Defense segment further segmented into Miniature Payloads, Surveillance Cameras, Enhanced Flight Vision Systems (EFVS), Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), Missile Warning Systems (MWS), Missile Seekers and Others


FIGURE 2 MID-WAVE INFRARED (MWIR) SENSORS MARKET SIZE (USD MILLION) BY APPLICATION 2021 VS 2030MID-WAVE INFRARED (MWIR) SENSORS MARKET SIZE (USD MILLION) BY APPLICATION 2021 VS 2030Source Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Regional Insights


Geographically, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa and South America region.


North America is expected to have a significant share of the Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Market during the projected period.


North America includes US, Canada, and Mexico. In 2021, the North American MWIR sensors market accounted for the biggest revenue share. The region's market is experiencing revenue growth as a result of growing applications for surveillance and security, as well as for sensing motion, particularly in the commercial, residential, and defence sectors. The presence of several manufacturers in the area and rising high-value investments in R&D projects are both significantly boosting the North American market's revenue growth. Moreover, the adoption of infrared sensors for unmanned aerial vehicles and drones is likely to drive the market growth in the European region. The US is at the forefront of UAV development and controls the overall market. In recent years, the US Department of Transportation (DOT) has prioritised the clearance of UAVs (UAVs) for commercial uses. AeroVironment Inc., Boeing, and Uber Technologies Inc. are all based in the country and are significantly engaged in the UAV business. Thousands of civilian UAV operators work for contractors in the US, operating and servicing UAVs. A single 24-hour combat air patrol (CAP) requires up to four UAVs and 400 to 500 pilots and ground support personnel. Therefore, the UAV market in the US is expected to drive MWIR in the North America. Additionally, Canada UAV market drive the demand for MWIR market in North America. For instance, Canadian UAVs (UAVs) are owned and controlled by licensed aircraft pilots with appropriate Transport Canada licenses. In Canada, Transport Canada had invested in the Canadian Centre for Unmanned Vehicle Systems (CCUVS) to conduct research and provide training related to the usage of UAVs. CCUVS is engaged in developing test and evaluation capabilities, in line with the growing market demand, which is optimized for unmanned systems. Meanwhile, Transport Canada had approved for the usage of UAVs for agriculture data collection and a variety of law enforcement activities.


FIGURE 3 MID-WAVE INFRARED (MWIR) SENSORS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2021 (%)MID-WAVE INFRARED (MWIR) SENSORS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2021Source Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Key Market Players & Competitive Insights


The Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Market has witnessed significant growth over the forecast period due to an increase in demand for low-cost mid-IR sensors for consumer products and rapidly growing space exploration activities. Prior to now, low-cost optical sensing technology was primarily restricted to near-infrared (IR) and visible wavelengths; however, there is a growing demand for mid-IR wavelengths (2.5–25 m) equipped with low-cost optical sensing technology for applications such as thermal imaging spectroscopy, air quality monitoring, and consumer goods The use of mid-IR sensors in consumer products is one of these applications that is anticipated to offer profitable growth prospects to the main players. The composition of edible oils can be analyzed, and sugar and salt content in food can be monitored, among other uses for mid-IR sensors. Consumer goods around the world has experienced significant growth which is driving the demand for MWIR sensors market.


Furthermore, there are several domestic, regional, and global players operating in the Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Market who continuously strive to gain a significant share of the overall market. During the study, MRFR has analyzed some of the major players in the Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Market who have contributed to the market growth. These include SemiConductor Devices, Teledyne FLIR LLC, Lynred, Leonardo S.p.A., GSTIR, Silent Sentinel, Ascendent Technology Group, Excelitas Technologies Corp., Opto Engineering, New Infrared Technologies (NIT), L3Harris Technologies, Inc., Sierra-Olympia Tech., InfraTec GmbH, Xenics NV, and Tech Imaging Services.


December 2022 Photonis, a global pioneer in highly distinctive technology for the defence and industrial markets, announced the signing of a formal agreement to acquire Xenics. With the addition of Xenics to Photonis, the merged firm will be able to supply distinctive high-end imaging goods to their Business-to-Business customers by mastering component production, having a vast geographical reach, and having superior technological capabilities.


Key Companies in the Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors market include




  • SemiConductor Devices




  • Teledyne 




  • FLIR LLC




  • Lynred




  • Leonardo S.p.A.




  • GSTIR




  • Silent Sentinel




  • Ascendent Technology Group




  • Excelitas Technologies Corp.




  • Opto Engineering




  • New Infrared Technologies (NIT)




  • L3Harris Technologies, Inc.




  • Sierra-Olympia Tech.




  • InfraTec GmbH




  • Xenics NV




  • Tech Imaging Services.




Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Industry Developments


August 2022 Teledyne FLIR released Neutrino LC CZ 15-300, the latest Neutrino IS series model of mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR) camera modules with integrated continuous zoom (CZ) lenses. Designed for integrated solutions requiring crisp, long range, SD or HD MWIR imaging, the ITAR-free Neutrino IS series offers size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP+C) benefits to original equipment manufacturers (OEM) and system integrators for airborne, unmanned, C-UAS, security, ISR, and targeting applications.


September 2021 Lynred launched Galatea MW, one of the compact and low power consumptioninfrared (IR) detectors on the market. Its SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power) design enhances the autonomy and performance of battery powered devices. This enhances company’s product portfolio in MWIR segment.


July 2022 Silent Sentinel announced the addition of new full High-Definition (HD) cooled Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) thermal lenses to its product portfolio. Silent Sentinel has expanded its standard-definition product line to include HD-cooled MWIR thermal lenses with 1280 x 1024 resolution and 10m pixel pitch as standard, significantly improving the range performance of its camera platform offering.


Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Market Segmentation


Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Product Outlook




  • Gamepads/ Joysticks/ Controllers




  • Gaming Keyboards




  • Gaming Mouse




  • Headsets




  • Surfaces




  • Virtual Reality (VR) Devices




  • Cooling Fans




  • Web Camera




  • Others




Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Device Type Outlook




  • PC (Desktop and Laptop)




  • Smartphones




  • Gaming Consoles




Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Distribution Channel Outlook




  • Online




  • Offline




Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors End-user Outlook




  • Casual Gaming




  • Professional Gaming




Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Sensors Regional Outlook





  • North America




    • US




    • Canada






  • Europe




    • Germany




    • France




    • UK




    • Italy




    • Spain




    • Rest of Europe






  • Asia-Pacific




    • China




    • Japan




    • India




    • Australia




    • South Korea




    • Australia




    • Rest of Asia-Pacific









  • Middle East & Africa




  • South America



Leading companies partner with us for data-driven Insights
client_1 client_2 client_3 client_4 client_5 client_6 client_7 client_8 client_9 client_10
Kindly complete the form below to receive a free sample of this Report
Please fill in Business Email for Quick Response

We do not share your information with anyone. However, we may send you emails based on your report interest from time to time. You may contact us at any time to opt-out.

Purchase Option
Single User $ 4,950
Multiuser License $ 5,950
Enterprise User $ 7,250
Compare Licenses
Tailored for You
  • Dedicated Research on any specifics segment or region.
  • Focused Research on specific players in the market.
  • Custom Report based only on your requirements.
  • Flexibility to add or subtract any chapter in the study.
  • Historic data from 2014 and forecasts outlook till 2040.
  • Flexibility of providing data/insights in formats (PDF, PPT, Excel).
  • Provide cross segmentation in applicable scenario/markets.