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Defence Market Research Reports

"Understanding Dynamics in the Defense Industry: Regulations, Challenges, and Compliance (2024 Market Size: USD 2.2 trillion)"!

Defence Industry Overview

The years 2023 and 2024 are characterized by substantial investments and technological advancements in the defense market, which continues to be a critical component of global economic and political stability. Global defense spending has increased by 3.1% from the previous year to USD 2.1 trillion in 2023. This trend is persist in 2024, with market size USD 2.2 trillion and USD 3.6 trillion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate(CAGR) of 6.5%. The United States continues to be the largest defense spender, with an allocation of over USD 800 billion in 2023. This figure is increase by 4% in 2024 as a result of increased geopolitical tensions and modernization initiatives. In 2023, China, the second-largest spender, allocated USD 290 billion, which represents a 6.5% increase from 2022. This upward trajectory is persist, with 2024 reaching USD 310 billion. In the same vein, India has experienced a substantial increase in its defense budget, which amounted to USD 80 billion in 2023, a 10% increase from the previous year. This increase was primarily due to regional security challenges and a renewed emphasis on the indigenization of defense production.

Technological advancements significantly influence the defense market. The development and deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in military applications have been a substantial trend. AI is being incorporated into autonomous weapons, surveillance systems, and decision-making processes to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness. In 2023, the global market for AI in defense was nine billion dollars, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.1% through 2024. Cybersecurity has also become a critical area, as defense markets worldwide are increasing their investments to safeguard against cyber threats. In 2023, the cybersecurity market within the defense market was worth USD 29 billion, with a increase to USD 33 billion in 2024. This expansion is fueled by the necessity for comprehensive defense mechanisms to safeguard sensitive information and critical infrastructure, as well as the growing sophistication of cyber-attacks.

The utilization of uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones is also increasing in the defense market. The global UAV market in defense was valued at USD 12 billion in 2023, and USD 14 billion in 2024. These drones are employed for a variety of purposes, such as targeted strikes, surveillance, and reconnaissance, which results in increased capabilities and reduced hazards for human personnel. Space defense is an additional emerging field, with nations such as the United States, China, and Russia making substantial investments in space-based defense systems. In 2023, the global space defense market was worth USD 30 billion, with a increase to USD 34 billion in 2024. The following are essential components of contemporary warfare: missile detection, satellite-based communication systems, and defense systems.

Top Countries Contributing in Defence Industry

United States

According to cognitive market research, The United States defense market maintained its status as the world's largest in 2023, with a defense budget of USD 842 billion for the fiscal year 2024. This figure is indicative of a consistent increase in response to the increasing global threats, particularly those emanating from China and Russia. The budget allocation includes substantial investments in procurement (USD 170 billion) and research, development, testing, and evaluation (USD 145 billion), which are essential for the preservation of a combat-credible force in all domains. The primary investment areas are air power with USD 61.1 billion, sea power with USD 48.1 billion, land power with USD 13.9 billion, and nuclear enterprise modernization with USD 37.7 billion. Aerospace, cybersecurity, advanced electronics, and robotics are among the industries that the defense market in the United States supports, making significant contributions. Key participants in the market include Boeing, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and RTX Corporation. These organizations are engaged in the development of cutting-edge military technologies and equipment, securing long-term contracts to provide the U.S. military with state-of-the-art capabilities. The United States is the dominant participant in the global defense market, with an 39% market share. This market share is bolstered by the country's ongoing investment in the modernization and innovation of military capabilities, as well as its extensive defense manufacturing base.

China 

China allocated USD 224.79 billion to its defense market in 2023, a 7.2% increase from the previous year. This upward trend persists in 2024, as the defense budget reaches USD 236.1 billion. This increase is in support of China's military modernization initiatives, which involve the modernization of legacy weapons and the improvement of personnel training to operate advanced equipment, including the J-20 stealth fighter aircraft and the HQ-19 missile defense systems. Submarines, military fixed-wing aircraft, and missile and missile defense systems are the primary drivers of China's defense market. The market's development is primarily driven by the missile defense segment, which encompasses systems such as the HQ-19. Surface combatants, naval vessels, and tactical communications systems are additional noteworthy domains. Various industries, including aerospace and manufacturing, are supported by the defense market in China. Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, China Precision Machinery Import-Export Corp, and China Shipbuilding Industry Co Ltd are among the most significant participants in the industry.

India

India was one of the top global spenders on military capabilities in 2023, allocating USD 74 billion to its defense market. The budget is increase slightly in 2024 as a result of India's ongoing dedication to the modernization of its military and the resolution of regional security challenges, particularly those associated with its neighbors, China and Pakistan. The Indian Armed Forces were the primary focus of the 2023-24 budget when it came to modernization. The Air Force received the largest share of the capital budget at 35%, followed by the Navy and the Army at 32.5% and 23%, respectively. This allocation underscores India's strategic emphasis on the improvement of its naval and air capabilities. Artillery, electronic warfare, military land vehicles, missiles and missile defense systems, naval vessels and submarines, and military fixed-wing and rotorcraft are among the main segments that the defense market in India serves. India has been emphasizing the promotion of indigenous production through the 'Make in India' initiative in order to decrease its reliance on foreign defense imports. This has resulted in a substantial increase in defense exports, which increased by 240% over five years to USD 1.9 billion in FY23. The country now exports to more than 85 countries. India holds 4% of the global defense market, making it a substantial participant in terms of global share.

Russia

As per cognitive market research, Russia, which remains one of the world's largest military spenders, allocated USD 86.4 billion to its defense market in 2023. The strategic priorities of Russia, which include the modernization of its armed forces and the improvement of its military capabilities, are reflected in this budget. The 2024 budget will maintain or slightly increase the allocation, thereby guaranteeing continued investment in defense technology and infrastructure. The development and procurement of advanced weaponry, such as hypersonic missiles, stealth aircraft, and contemporary naval vessels, are the primary objectives of the Russian defense budget. With substantial investments in electronic warfare, missile systems, naval platforms, and aerospace, Russia's defense market serves numerous critical segments. The nation continues to export military equipment to a variety of countries. It is recognized for its advanced defense manufacturing capabilities, which account for a significant portion of the global arms market. Russia was the second-largest arms exporter in 2023, with its defense exports comprising 20% of the global market, following the United States. Aerospace and aviation, naval forces, and ground-based military operations are among the primary markets that employ Russia's defense capabilities. Almaz-Antey, United Aircraft Corporation, and United Shipbuilding Corporation are the primary state-owned enterprises in the Russian defense industry.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia was among the top global military spenders in 2023, with a defense budget of USD 75 billion. This level of expenditure is maintained or slightly increased in the 2024 budget, which is indicative of the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities in response to regional security concerns. The budget is predominantly allocated to the modernization of the existing military infrastructure and the procurement of advanced military hardware, such as fighter jets, missile defense systems, and naval vessels. Key segments, including cybersecurity, missile defense, naval platforms, and aerospace, are served by the Saudi Arabian defense market. The Kingdom's strategic defense requirements are predominantly satisfied through defense imports from the United States and Europe. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been undertaking initiatives such as Vision 2030 to improve its domestic defense manufacturing capabilities. The objective of this initiative is to localize 50% of military expenditure by 2030. This has resulted in the formation of numerous partnerships and joint ventures with international defense enterprises.  Saudi Arabia is one of the largest importers of military equipment in terms of global share, accounting for 11% of global arms imports.

United Kingdom

In 2023, the United Kingdom allocated USD 68 billion to its defense budget, with a modest increase expected in 2024. This budget is indicative of the United Kingdom's dedication to preserving a strong defense posture in the face of changing global security challenges and threats. The United Kingdom's defense expenditure is concentrated on modernization initiatives, which encompass the procurement of advanced defense systems, the development of next-generation military technologies, and the enhancement of cyber capabilities. These initiatives include the procurement of new-generation submarines and F-35 fighter aircraft. Aerospace, naval systems, land defense, and cyber warfare comprise the United Kingdom's defense market. The nation is a substantial participant in the global defense market, placing a high value on research and development to preserve its technological superiority. The United Kingdom's defense exports are substantial, comprising 4% of the global defense market. The British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force are among the primary markets that capitalize on the United Kingdom's defense capabilities. These markets are the beneficiaries of ongoing investments in capability enhancement and modernization.

Germany

In 2023, the United Kingdom allocated USD 68 billion to its defense budget, with a modest increase in 2024. This budget is indicative of the United Kingdom's dedication to preserving a strong defense posture in the face of changing global security challenges and threats. The United Kingdom's defense expenditure is concentrated on modernization initiatives, which encompass the procurement of advanced defense systems, the development of next-generation military technologies, and the enhancement of cyber capabilities. These initiatives include the procurement of new-generation submarines and F-35 fighter aircraft. Aerospace, naval systems, land defense, and cyber warfare comprise the United Kingdom's defense market. The nation is a substantial participant in the global defense market, placing a high value on research and development to preserve its technological superiority. The United Kingdom's defense exports are substantial, comprising approximately 4% of the global defense market. The British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force are among the primary sectors that capitalize on the United Kingdom's defense capabilities. These sectors are the beneficiaries of ongoing investments in capability enhancement and modernization.

France

According to CMR, France allocated a substantial portion of its budget to defense in 2023, and in 2024 with substantial increases. The French Parliament has approved a defense budget of €413 billion for the 2024-2030 period. This funding is used to facilitate the modernization and improvement of a variety of military sectors. €5 billion has been allocated for air defense and surface-to-air missiles, €4 billion for cybersecurity, and €2 billion for special forces. These are notable amounts. The budget also prioritizes the modernization of naval capabilities through the acquisition of frigates, nuclear-powered submarines, and other naval vessels. The Air Force will also benefit from the ongoing financing of Rafale fighter jets and transport aircraft. Several critical areas are served by France's defense market, which has made substantial investments in autonomous defense technologies and advanced cyber capabilities. In order to guarantee sovereignty and mitigate dependence on foreign suppliers, the defense industrial and technological base (BITD) is being fortified. Cybersecurity continues to be a top priority, with a greater allocation of resources to the defense market's support of companies that handle sensitive materials and combat cyber threats.

Japan

In response to regional security challenges, Japan has substantially increased its defense expenditure, with a budget increase of ¥6.82 trillion (USD 47 billion) for 2023 and ¥7.18 trillion (USD 49 billion) for 2024. Driving this increase is the necessity to fortify defenses against potential threats from neighboring countries, which accounts for a 10% increase from previous years. Upgrades to missile defense systems, the expansion of cyber defense capabilities, and the enhancement of maritime security are among the most significant investments. Furthermore, Japan is emphasizing the integration of advanced technologies into its defense infrastructure by collaborating on joint defense development projects with allies, including the United States. Aerospace, manufacturing, and cybersecurity are among the markets that capitalize on Japan's defense capabilities. In the maritime domain, Japan is also improving the operational capabilities and readiness of its self-defense forces by increasing funding for new destroyers, submarines, and patrol aircraft. Japan holds 2.5% of the global defense market, which is indicative of its expanding defense exports and strategic investments.

South Korea

South Korea has consistently increased its defense budget, with a USD 52.4 billion for 2024 and an allocation of USD 50.2 billion for 2023. This increase is motivated by the necessity to improve South Korea's defense capabilities and to mitigate North Korean threats. The budget facilitates the procurement and development of sophisticated military technologies, such as stealth aircraft, missile defense systems, and naval vessels. Additionally, substantial investments are allocated to the advancement of cybersecurity and the creation of autonomous defense systems. Aerospace, shipbuilding, and information technology are among the critical sectors that the defense market in South Korea supports. South Korea's defense industry is a significant contributor to the global defense market, with an 2.8% market share. K9 howitzers, T-50 trainer aircraft, and a variety of naval vessels are among the defense equipment that the nation exports in significant quantities. Substantial investments in new technologies and systems have been made in South Korea's defense market for 2023 and 2024. This encompasses the acquisition of additional F-35 fighter aircraft, the development of indigenous KF-21 Boramae fighters, and the enhancement of existing military hardware.

PESTEL Analysis of Defence Market

Political

Political factors significantly impact the defense market, as national governments are the primary influencers of defense policies and military strategies. Political stability, international relations, and government policies have a direct impact on defense budgets and procurement processes. Major powers, including the United States, China, and Russia, made substantial contributions to the USD 2.24 trillion global defense expenditure in 2023. The U.S. alone was responsible for USD 877 billion of this expenditure, which was influenced by its strategic priorities and global military presence. Increased defense expenditure and modernization programs have been precipitated by geopolitical tensions, including those between the United States and China, NATO and Russia, and regional conflicts in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific. For instance, the Ukraine conflict has incited European nations to increase their defense expenditures. Germany intends to allocate more than €100 billion to defense in 2024. In the same vein, the increasing assertiveness of China in the South China Sea has resulted in a rise in defense allocations among neighboring countries. Defense procurement policies and regulations, such as arms export controls, international defense agreements, and military alliances, such as NATO, substantially influence the defense market.

Economical

The defense market is significantly influenced by economic factors, which affect the overall market dynamics, procurement strategies, and defense budgets. The health of the global economy substantially determines government expenditures on defense. The substantial economic commitment to defense was underscored by the global defense expenditure of USD 2.24 trillion in 2023, which accounted for 2.2% of the global GDP. Defense expenditures may fluctuate as a result of economic expansion or recession. For instance, during economic downturns, governments may prioritize social and economic programs over defense expenditures, resulting in budget reductions. In contrast, higher defense investments may be facilitated by economic expansion. In response to the escalating geopolitical tensions, numerous nations have reallocated funds to enhance their defense capabilities during the post-COVID-19 economic recovery. Defense expenditure is a substantial portion of the national budgets of numerous countries. For example, Saudi Arabia allocated 8.4% of its GDP to defense in 2023, while the United States allocated 3.5% of its GDP to defense. 

Social

Social factors influence the defense market through public perception, societal requirements, and workforce dynamics. Government defense policies and expenditure priorities are influenced by public opinion and societal values. In democratic societies, political decisions can be influenced by public support or opposition to military interventions, defense expenditure, and specific defense programs. For example, the United States' defense strategies and budget allocations have been influenced by public opposition to extended military engagements, such as the Afghan and Iraq conflicts. The societal necessity for security and protection drives the demand for defense capabilities. The increasing apprehensions regarding terrorism, cyber threats, and geopolitical conflicts have compelled governments to allocate resources to defense in order to guarantee national security. For instance, the rise in the frequency of cyber-attacks has resulted in increased investments in cybersecurity and cyber defense capabilities. Demographic changes also impact the defense market. The senior population jeopardizes the military recruitment and workforce sustainability of numerous developed countries. 

Technological

The defense market is fundamentally influenced by technological advancements, which drive innovation, enhance capabilities, and influence military strategies. In order to preserve a competitive advantage, it is imperative to continue investing in research and development (R&D) due to the rapid tempo of technological advancement. In 2023, the most prominent defense companies collectively allocated billions to research and development (R&D), with an emphasis on the development of state-of-the-art technologies, including autonomous systems, hypersonic weapons, cyber warfare, and artificial intelligence (AI). The defense sector is being transformed by AI and machine learning, which are facilitating the development of autonomous systems, advanced data analytics, and decision-making processes. Autonomous drones, predictive maintenance for military equipment, and improved cybersecurity measures are among the applications of AI. For example, AI-powered drones are currently being developed for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat missions, which offer substantial tactical advantages. Another critical area of technological focus is cybersecurity. Robust cybersecurity measures are required due to the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure and defense systems.

Environmental

The defense market is being increasingly impacted by environmental factors as governments and defense organizations acknowledge the significance of environmental responsibility and sustainability. Key considerations that influence defense policies and operations include resource management, environmental regulations, and climate change. The defense market is confronted with substantial challenges as a result of climate change, which affects military infrastructure, operations, and strategic planning. Military bases, training facilities, and operational readiness are all impacted by altering climate patterns, extreme weather events, and rising sea levels. For example, investments in resilient infrastructure and disaster response capabilities are necessary due to the risk of inundation and storm damage for coastal military installations. Additionally, the defense market is a significant consumer of natural resources and energy. Defense operations have resulted in an increased emphasis on sustainable practices due to their environmental impact, which encompasses fuel consumption, emissions, and refuse generation. 

Legal

The defense market is subject to a multifaceted legal framework that regulates both domestic and international operations. At the national level, defense operations are subject to a variety of laws and regulations that guarantee adherence to government policies and national security interests. Export controls, procurement laws, and contract regulations are among the most significant legal considerations. In order to guarantee transparency, impartiality, and competition, defense procurement is subject to rigorous regulatory frameworks. For instance, the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) governs defense contracts in the United States. At the same time, the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) offers supplementary regulations that are specifically tailored to the defense market. In other countries, comparable regulations exist, which necessitate strict adherence to statutory requirements and rigorous tendering processes. Defense contracts are subject to specific legal standards that are designed to address issues such as intellectual property rights, compliance with safety standards, and performance obligations. Arbitration or litigation under specialized legal frameworks are frequently necessary to resolve disputes that arise from defense contracts. Various international legal obligations, such as humanitarian law and conflict-related treaties, must be navigated by the defense market. 

Key Players of Defence Market

Lockheed Martin Corporation 

Lockheed Martin reported net sales of USD 67.6 billion in 2023, a modest increase from USD 66.0 billion in 2022. The company's net earnings increased from USD 5.7 billion, or USD 21.66 per share, in the previous year to USD 6.9 billion, or USD 27.55 per share. Lockheed Martin's net sales for the first quarter of 2024 were USD 17.2 billion, which represents an increase from USD 15.1 billion in the same period of 2023. The net earnings for Q1 2024 were USD 1.5 billion, or USD 6.39 per share. The company's ongoing development of advanced defense technologies and capabilities was significantly influenced by its substantial investment in research and development, with over USD 700 million allocated in the first quarter of 2024. Aeronautics, Missiles and Fire Control, Rotary and Mission Systems, and Space comprise Lockheed Martin's primary business segments. The biggest contributor to the company's revenue is the Aeronautics segment, which encompasses the F-35 Lightning II. The missile defense systems and precision strike armaments are the primary focus of the Missiles and Fire Control segment. The Space segment encompasses satellite development and launch services, while Rotary and Mission Systems concentrate on maritime systems and sensors. Lockheed Martin occupies an immense portion of the worldwide defense market. The company holds 20% of the global defense market, as evidenced by its considerable annual revenue and extensive portfolio.

Northrop Grumman

In 2023, Northrop Grumman reported revenues of USD 36.6 billion, a substantial increase from USD 34.1 billion in 2022. The company's revenue in Q1 2024 was USD 9.3 billion, a substantial increase from USD 8.7 billion in the same period in 2023. Northrop Grumman's emphasis on state-of-the-art defense technologies was underscored by its R&D expenditures of USD 1.6 billion in 2023. Northrop Grumman is organized into four primary segments: Aeronautics Systems, Defense Systems, Mission Systems, and Space Systems. Unmanned aircraft systems and piloted aircraft are included in the category of Aeronautics Systems, which are intended for both commercial and defense purposes. Logistics services, missile defense, and battle management systems are all provided by Defense Systems. Mission Systems concentrate on radar, cybersecurity, and C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance). Systems of space include strategic missile systems and satellite systems. The Defense Systems and Mission Systems segments are the most prominent representations of the defense market. Northrop Grumman holds 10% of the global defense market. This proportion is a result of its substantial contributions to space and missile defense programs, its leadership in aerospace and defense technologies, and its strong presence in cybersecurity solutions.

BAE Systems

In 2023, BAE Systems' revenue increased from £20.1 billion (USD 25.2 billion) in 2022 to £21.3 billion (USD 26.7 billion). In 2023, the company allocated £1.2 billion (USD 1.5 billion) to research and development, which is indicative of its dedication to the advancement of military technology. BAE Systems reported revenues of £5.4 billion (USD 6.8 billion) in the first quarter of 2024. BAE Systems is organized into five primary segments: Air, Maritime, Platforms & Services (US), Cyber & Intelligence, and Electronic Systems. Advanced electronics and intelligence systems are the primary focus of the Electronic Systems segment. Cyber & Intelligence offers cybersecurity solutions and services. The Air segment encompasses military aircraft and support services, while Platforms & Services (US) encompasses land and armament systems. Naval vessels and submarines comprise the maritime market. The defense market is essential to all of these segments, with substantial contributions from Maritime, Air, and Electronic Systems. BAE Systems holds 8% of the global defense market.

Boeing Defense

In 2023, Boeing's Defense, Space & Security (BDS) division reported revenues of USD 26.6 billion, a modest decrease from USD 27.5 billion in 2022. BDS reported revenues of USD 6.7 billion in the first quarter of 2024. In 2023, Boeing's R&D expenditure for the BDS segment was USD 2.2 billion, suggesting a significant emphasis on innovation. Boeing's BDS division is organized into three principal segments: Vertical Lift, Space and Launch, and Autonomous Systems. Uncrewed vehicles and maritime systems comprise autonomous systems. Space and Launch concentrates on the provision of defense launch services, satellite systems, and space exploration. Vertical Lift encompasses military helicopters and associated services. The Autonomous Systems and Vertical Lift segments are the primary providers of services to the defense market, with significant contributions from Space and Launch. Boeing's BDS division holds a 6% of the global defense market. This share is indicative of its leadership in aerospace and defense technologies, its substantial contributions to space exploration, and its involvement in the development of sophisticated military aircraft and systems.

Raytheon Technologies

Revenues of USD 67.1 billion in 2023 represents an increase from USD 64.4 billion in 2022, according to Raytheon Technologies. In 2023, the organization's expenditures on research and development (R&D) were USD 3.7 billion, which underscores its dedication to technological advancements. Raytheon Technologies generated revenues of USD 17.8 billion in the first quarter of 2024. Raytheon Technologies is organized into four primary segments: Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, Raytheon Intelligence & Space, and Raytheon Missiles & Defense. Collins Aerospace renders Avionics and information management services. Aircraft engines are produced by Pratt & Whitney. Raytheon Intelligence & Space provides sophisticated communication systems and sensors. Raytheon Missiles & Defense concentrates on defense technologies and missile systems. Raytheon Intelligence & Space and Raytheon Missiles & Defense are the primary entities that represent the defense market. Raytheon Technologies hold a 9% share of the global defense market. This share is a result of its strategic partnerships with defense organizations worldwide, strong technological capabilities, and extensive range of defense products.

Recent developments in Defence Market

Conclusion

Significant expansion in the worldwide military industry was noted in 2023, and this upward trend will persist into 2024. There was a considerable increase from the previous year, with total global defense expenditure reaching around USD 2.2 trillion in 2024 and USD 3.6 trillion by 2031, with a CAGR of 6.5%. Reflecting the dynamic and competitive structure of the military market, leading businesses, including BAE Systems, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon, have continuously reported solid revenues and increasing R&D spending. As an example, Lockheed Martin invested heavily in cutting-edge defense technology, such as the F-35 program, which contributed to its USD 67.6 billion in sales in 2023. With an emphasis on missile systems and advanced defense solutions, Raytheon Technologies, renamed RTX, produced USD 67.1 billion in revenue in 2023. 

With USD 36.6 billion in sales, Northrop Grumman highlighted its importance in the aerospace and cybersecurity industries. A sizeable chunk of the USD 26.6 billion in sales was attributed to space travel and unmanned aerial systems by Boeing's Defense, Space & Security segment. BAE Systems boasted about its innovations in electronic systems and maritime defense, which contributed to its £21.3 billion in sales. Rising geopolitical tensions, new technologies, and greater defense spending around the world bode well for the defense industry's future. The future of defense is likely to be shaped by the continuous development of next-generation military technology, such as hypersonic weapons, advanced cybersecurity measures, and autonomous systems. It is also believed that military tactics and capabilities would undergo a radical transformation once AI and ML are fully integrated into defense systems.