Global Military Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Market  Outlook

The global military unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) market was valued at USD 12.8 billion in 2022. It is projected to grow from USD 13.79 billion in 2023 to USD 25.163 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.80% during the forecast period (2023 - 2032). The growth of the market is driven by the increasing need for advanced surveillance systems and rising military expenditures across various countries.

Key Market Trends

Rising Defense Forces Procurement and Military Expenditure

The market for military UAVs is significantly influenced by the rising defense budgets and procurement activities of various countries. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), global military spending reached USD 1,981 billion in 2020, marking a 2.6% increase from 2019. The top five countries with the largest defense budgets in 2020 were the United States (USD 778 billion), China (USD 252 billion), India (USD 72.9 billion), Russia (USD 61.7 billion), and the United Kingdom (USD 59.2 billion). Significant investments have been made by these and other countries, such as Saudi Arabia, in the acquisition and modernization of defense systems, which is expected to drive the demand for military UAVs.

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For instance, in November 2021, India and the United States were set to finalize a contract for the purchase of thirty multi-mission MQ-9B long-endurance predator drones, valued at USD 3 billion. Additionally, the increasing acquisition of next-generation drones by the military is fueling market expansion.

Technological Advancements in UAVs

Unmanned aerial vehicles have become an integral part of armed forces worldwide, supporting tactical operations and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Advances in processing technology have significantly enhanced the performance of ISR systems. These advancements have led to a common system-level architecture, reducing the cost and complexity associated with the production and use of military UAVs.

Small UAVs are particularly valued for their ability to minimize casualties and facilitate the completion of critical, high-profile missions. Large UAVs, such as High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) and Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drones, are primarily used for combat missions requiring long-range capabilities. Recently, drone swarm technology has gained popularity, with several countries developing this technology. Drone swarms, which consist of multiple unmanned platforms working together to achieve a common goal, can independently adjust their behavior based on mutual communication.

Market Segmentation

• By Type

The military unmanned aerial vehicle market share is segmented based on type into fixed-wing and Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAVs. The fixed-wing segment dominated the market. Fixed-wing drones use their wings for lift, similar to airplanes, and require motors for forward propulsion. They offer greater endurance and payload capacity compared to rotary-wing drones, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

• By Application

The market is segmented by application into combat and non-combat UAVs. The combat category generated the most revenue, as combat drones have become critical strategic assets for armed forces across numerous countries. The emergence of numerous domestic Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) projects and the increasing efficiency of inexpensive armed drones have led to a new phase in the unmanned combat aerial vehicle market. Armed drones are becoming standard in military arsenals.

Regional Insights

• North America

North America dominates the military unmanned aerial vehicle market, driven by the demand for sophisticated ISR capabilities, increased funding for military modernization projects, and the growing use of UAVs for homeland security and law enforcement. Key advancements in drone technology within the US military and increased spending by regional players are fueling market growth.

• Europe

Europe holds the second-largest market share, with heightened awareness of the need to strengthen military forces, including the air force and navy. European countries such as the UK, Germany, and France are competing for small, tactical military UAVs to enhance their ISR capabilities. Germany holds the largest market share in the European region, while the UK market is the fastest growing.

• Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2023 to 2032, driven by the rapid acquisition of military drones by regional governments. The prolonged conflict between Russia and Ukraine has prioritized the acquisition of military UAVs, supporting market growth. China holds the largest market share in the Asia-Pacific region, with India being the fastest-growing market.

Competitive Landscape

Leading market players are heavily investing in research and development to expand their product lines and enhance market growth. Market participants are also undertaking strategic activities such as new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, higher investments, and collaborations. To remain competitive, military UAV manufacturers are focusing on offering cost-effective products and localizing manufacturing to minimize operational costs.

Key Market Players

• China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
• Aeronautics Ltd
• General Atomics
• BAYKAR
• Safran SA
• Leonardo SpA
• Textron Inc.
• Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)
• Elbit Systems Ltd
• AeroVironment Inc.
• The Boeing Company
• Lockheed Martin Corporation
• Northrop Grumman Corporation
• Saab AB

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)

Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI) supplies aerospace and defense technologies to the military and commercial sectors. The company designs, develops, produces, and supplies radar systems, hydraulic systems, business jets, fighter aircraft, helicopters, and their components. IAI also manufactures space components, communication systems, ground control systems, observation systems, and satellite launchers. Additionally, it provides marine radars, C4I systems, naval weapons systems, unmanned aircraft systems, and anti-ballistic defense systems.

Elbit Systems Ltd.

Elbit Systems Ltd. designs and develops systems and equipment for the aerospace industry, C4ISR (command, control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance), and computers. The company offers advanced electro-optics and countermeasures systems, military aircraft, airborne and helicopter systems, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned surface boats, aerostructures, helmet-mounted systems, and land and naval systems. Elbit Systems is also involved in modernizing military equipment and developing new technologies for the defense, homeland security, and commercial aviation industries.

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Future Outlook

The military unmanned aerial vehicle market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, driven by increasing defense budgets, technological advancements, and the rising need for advanced surveillance systems. The integration of next-generation technologies and the development of new UAV applications will continue to propel the market forward. Additionally, the focus on reducing the cost and complexity of UAV production will enhance the adoption of these systems by armed forces worldwide.

In conclusion, the military UAV market is evolving rapidly, with significant investments and technological advancements shaping its future. As countries continue to prioritize defense modernization and enhance their ISR capabilities, the demand for military UAVs will continue to grow, driving market expansion and innovation.

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