Light Weapons Market Size, Share, Growth Analysis, By Type(Heavy Machine Guns, Grenades & Grenade Launchers, Mortars, Man-Portable anti-tank systems), By Technology(Guided and Unguided), By Region - Industry Forecast 2025-2032


Report ID: SQMIG20A2160 | Region: Global | Published Date: February, 2024
Pages: 157 |Tables: 63 |Figures: 76

Light Weapons Market Insights

Light Weapons Market size was valued at USD 15.68 Billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 16.56 Billion in 2024 to USD 25.61 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period (2025-2032).

Light weapons are widely used in defence and homeland security, among other things. Due to the increasing demand for cutting-edge weapons, the military and defence sector has experienced tremendous expansion, which is the main factor driving the market. This can be ascribed to the rising popularity of precision-guided weapons with cutting-edge capabilities such enhanced head-up displays and firing control. The market is also being helped by an increase in the number of light weapon contracts from armed forces and homeland security.

A bright market outlook is also being produced by significant research and development (R&D) efforts made by major weapon makers. Additionally, the market is driven by ongoing technological developments in weapon production, such as the introduction of anti-tank missiles with a longer range, the merging of laser systems into light cannons, and the addition of artificial intelligence (AI) features. For instance, The Canadian MoD announced the purchase of 3,626 C6A1 FLEX General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG) from Colt Canada in order to maintain the Canadian Armed Forces' access to a cutting-edge and dependable weapon for training and operations.

US Light Weapons Market is poised to grow at a sustainable CAGR for the next forecast year.

Market snapshot - 2024-2031

Global Market Size

USD 13.82 billion

Largest Segment

Guided

Fastest Growth

Guided

Growth Rate

4.68% CAGR

Global Light Weapons Market ($ Bn)
Country Share for North America Region (%)

To get more reports on the above market click here to Buy The Report

Light Weapons Market Segmental Analysis

Global Light Weapons Market is segmented on the basis of type, technology, application and region. By type, the market is segmented into heavy machine guns, grenades & grenade launchers, mortars, man-portable anti tank systems, man-portable air defense systems. By technology, market is segmented into guided and unguided. By application, the market is segmented into defense and homeland security. By region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

Light Weapons Market Analysis by Type

The man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) segment is the dominant segment in the global light weapons market. This is due to the increasing demand for these systems by armed forces and law enforcement agencies to counter the threat of small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Military force modernization programmers and expanding defense contracts are what are driving the segment's growth.

The grenades and grenade launchers segment are the fastest growing segment in the global light weapons market. This is due to the increasing demand for these systems by armed forces and law enforcement agencies to counter the threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other explosive threats. The expansion of armed forces, particularly in developing nations, and rising R&D spending are the main factors driving market expansion.

Light Weapons Market Analysis by Technology

The unguided light weapons market is still dominant during the forecast period, but at a slower rate than the guided light weapons market. This is due to the lower cost and ease of use of unguided weapons. Unguided weapons are still widely used by armed forces and law enforcement agencies for training exercises, low-intensity conflicts, and self-defense.

The guided light weapons market is expected to grow at a faster rate than the unguided light weapons market during the forecast period. This is due to the increasing demand for precision-guided munitions (PGMs) by armed forces to improve the accuracy and lethality of their fire. PGMs are a type of guided light weapon that uses a guidance system to accurately hit a target. They are becoming increasingly popular as armed forces look for ways to reduce civilian casualties and collateral damage. This is due to the increasing demand for these systems by armed forces to improve the accuracy and lethality of their fire.

Global Light Weapons Market Size By Technology (%)

To get detailed analysis on other segments, Request For Free Sample Report

Light Weapons Market Regional Insights

North America is the largest market for light weapons, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. North America is expected to remain the largest market during the forecast period, due to the presence of a large number of defense and homeland security organizations in the region. These organizations are constantly upgrading their weapons systems to meet the evolving threats.

Asia Pacific is the fastest growing market for light weapons and is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period. The growth of the Asian market is being driven by the increasing defense spending of countries in the region, such as China, India, and Japan. These countries are modernizing their weapons systems to meet the growing threats from neighboring countries and terrorist groups.

Global Light Weapons Market Size By Geography
  • Largest
  • Fastest

To know more about the market opportunities by region and country, click here to
Buy The Complete Report

Light Weapons Market Dynamics

Light Weapons Market Drivers

Défense Modernization Programs

  • Many countries invest in defense modernization programs to enhance their military capabilities. These programs include the acquisition of advanced light weapons systems to replace outdated equipment and improve the operational effectiveness of armed forces. The need for modernization drives the demand for small arms, ammunition, and other light weapons.

Regional Conflicts and Security Concerns

  • Ongoing regional conflicts, insurgencies, and security threats around the world create a demand for light weapons. Governments and security forces seek to equip their personnel with reliable and effective small arms and light weapons to ensure national security and counter various threats. This demand drives the market for light weapons.

Light Weapons Market Restraints

Arms Embargoes and Sanctions

  • Arms embargoes and sanctions imposed by the United Nations or individual countries limit the export and import of light weapons to specific regions or nations. These restrictions are often imposed due to political, security, or human rights concerns. Arms embargoes and sanctions can significantly restrict market access, limiting trade opportunities for light weapons manufacturers and suppliers.

Request Free Customization of this report to help us to meet your business objectives.

Light Weapons Market Competitive Landscape

These businesses engage in mergers and acquisitions or strategic partnerships for the creation of new products and the advancement of technology. the market will continue to innovate and adapt to meet the changing needs of armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilian users.

Light Weapons Market Top Player’s Company Profiles

  • Lockheed Martin Corporation (United States)
  • Raytheon Technologies Corporation (United States)
  • Thales Group (France)
  • FN Herstal (Belgium)
  • Heckler & Koch GmbH (Germany)
  • Beretta Holding S.p.A. (Italy)
  • Kalashnikov Concern (Russia)
  • Israel Weapon Industries (Israel)
  • Northrop Grumman Corporation (United States)
  • Rheinmetall AG (Germany)
  • Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC (United States)
  • Česká zbrojovka Group SE (Czech Republic)
  • Sig Sauer, Inc. (United States)
  • Norinco International Cooperation Ltd. (China)
  • Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. (United States)
  • Taurus Holdings, Inc. (Brazil)
  • Arsenal JSCo (Bulgaria)
  • ST Engineering (Singapore)
  • Denel SOC Ltd (South Africa)

Light Weapons Market Recent Developments

  • In April 2023, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems announced that it had received a USD 20 million contract from the Israeli Defense Forces to produce Spike anti-tank guided missiles. The contract calls for the delivery of 100 missiles over a one-year period.
  • In March 2023, Northrop Grumman announced that it had received a USD 50 million contract from the U.S. Navy to produce MK 46 underwater assault rifles. The contract calls for the delivery of 200 rifles over a two-year period.
  • In February 2023, General Dynamics announced that it had received a USD 100 million contract from the U.S. Army to produce M4 carbines. The contract calls for the delivery of 10,000 rifles over a three-year period.

Light Weapons Key Market Trends

Focus on Lightweight and Portable Systems

  • There is a growing demand for lightweight and portable light weapons systems. Military forces and security agencies seek compact and highly mobile weapon systems that provide manoeuvrability, ease of deployment, and operational flexibility. This trend is driving the development of compact assault rifles, compact submachine guns, and other lightweight light weapons.

Light Weapons Market SkyQuest Analysis

SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Co-relates and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by the robust Secondary Desk research.

According to our analyses, the global light weapons market has experienced steady growth over the years due to various factors such as defence modernization programs, regional conflicts, counterterrorism efforts, and civilian demand. The market size is expected to continue expanding, driven by increasing defence budgets, evolving security threats, and technological advancements. Technological advancements have a significant impact on the market, driving innovation in light weapons systems. Manufacturers are continuously investing in research and development to improve weapon performance, accuracy, ergonomics, and modularity. Integration of digital and smart technologies, such as advanced optics, sensors, and connectivity, enhances the effectiveness and capabilities of light weapons.

Report Metric Details
Market size value in 2022 USD 14.85 billion
Market size value in 2031 USD 24.25 billion
Growth Rate 5.6%
Base year 2023
Forecast period 2024-2031
Forecast Unit (Value) USD Billion
Segments covered
  • Type
    • Heavy Machine Guns, Grenades & Grenade Launchers, Mortars, Man-Portable anti-tank systems, man-portable air defense systems
  • Technology
    • Guided and Unguided
Regions covered North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA)
Companies covered
  • Lockheed Martin Corporation (United States)
  • Raytheon Technologies Corporation (United States)
  • Thales Group (France)
  • FN Herstal (Belgium)
  • Heckler & Koch GmbH (Germany)
  • Beretta Holding S.p.A. (Italy)
  • Kalashnikov Concern (Russia)
  • Israel Weapon Industries (Israel)
  • Northrop Grumman Corporation (United States)
  • Rheinmetall AG (Germany)
  • Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC (United States)
  • Česká zbrojovka Group SE (Czech Republic)
  • Sig Sauer, Inc. (United States)
  • Norinco International Cooperation Ltd. (China)
  • Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. (United States)
  • Taurus Holdings, Inc. (Brazil)
  • Arsenal JSCo (Bulgaria)
  • ST Engineering (Singapore)
  • Denel SOC Ltd (South Africa)
Customization scope

Free report customization with purchase. Customization includes:-

  • Segments by type, application, etc
  • Company profile
  • Market dynamics & outlook
  • Region

To get a free trial access to our platform which is a one stop solution for all your data requirements for quicker decision making. This platform allows you to compare markets, competitors who are prominent in the market, and mega trends that are influencing the dynamics in the market. Also, get access to detailed SkyQuest exclusive matrix.

Buy The Complete Report to read the analyzed strategies adopted by the top vendors either to retain or gain market share

Table Of Content

Executive Summary

Market overview

  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Overview
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Market Overview
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Light Weapons Market Characteristics
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market by Geography
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Segmentation
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Incremental Growth
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Incremental Growth
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Vendor Market Positioning

Parent Market Analysis

Market overview

Market size

  • Market Dynamics
    • Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
      • Drivers
      • Opportunities
      • Restraints
      • Challenges
  • SWOT Analysis

KEY MARKET INSIGHTS

  • Technology Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and details)
  • Pricing Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and pricing details)
  • Supply Chain Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Detailed Supply Chain Presentation)
  • Value Chain Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Detailed Value Chain Presentation)
  • Ecosystem Of the Market
    • Exhibit: Parent Market Ecosystem Market Analysis
    • Exhibit: Market Characteristics of Parent Market
  • IP Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of product/technology, patents filed, inventor/company name, acquiring firm)
  • Trade Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Import and Export data details)
  • Startup Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Emerging startups details)
  • Raw Material Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Mapping of key raw materials)
  • Innovation Matrix
    • (Exhibit: Positioning Matrix: Mapping of new and existing technologies)
  • Pipeline product Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of companies and pipeline products, regional mapping)
  • Macroeconomic Indicators

COVID IMPACT

  • Introduction
  • Impact On Economy—scenario Assessment
    • Exhibit: Data on GDP - Year-over-year growth 2016-2022 (%)
  • Revised Market Size
    • Exhibit: Data Table on Light Weapons Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Impact Of COVID On Key Segments
    • Exhibit: Data Table on Segment Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • COVID Strategies By Company
    • Exhibit: Analysis on key strategies adopted by companies

MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK

  • Market Dynamics
    • Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
      • Drivers
      • Opportunities
      • Restraints
      • Challenges
  • Regulatory Landscape
    • Exhibit: Data Table on regulation from different region
  • SWOT Analysis
  • Porters Analysis
    • Competitive rivalry
      • Exhibit: Competitive rivalry Impact of key factors, 2021
    • Threat of substitute products
      • Exhibit: Threat of Substitute Products Impact of key factors, 2021
    • Bargaining power of buyers
      • Exhibit: buyers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
    • Threat of new entrants
      • Exhibit: Threat of new entrants Impact of key factors, 2021
    • Bargaining power of suppliers
      • Exhibit: Threat of suppliers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
  • Skyquest special insights on future disruptions
    • Political Impact
    • Economic impact
    • Social Impact
    • Technical Impact
    • Environmental Impact
    • Legal Impact

Market Size by Region

  • Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2027 (%)
  • Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2027(%)
  • North America
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • USA
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Canada
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Europe
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • Germany
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Spain
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • France
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • UK
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Rest of Europe
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Asia Pacific
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • China
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • India
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Japan
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • South Korea
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Rest of Asia Pacific
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Latin America
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • Brazil
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Rest of South America
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Middle East & Africa (MEA)
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • GCC Countries
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • South Africa
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Rest of MEA
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)

KEY COMPANY PROFILES

  • Competitive Landscape
    • Total number of companies covered
      • Exhibit: companies covered in the report, 2021
    • Top companies market positioning
      • Exhibit: company positioning matrix, 2021
    • Top companies market Share
      • Exhibit: Pie chart analysis on company market share, 2021(%)

Methodology

For the Light Weapons Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:

1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.

2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the Light Weapons Market.

3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.

4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.

Analyst Support

Customization Options

With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Light Weapons Market:

Product Analysis: Product matrix, which offers a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of companies.

Regional Analysis: Further analysis of the Light Weapons Market for additional countries.

Competitive Analysis: Detailed analysis and profiling of additional Market players & comparative analysis of competitive products.

Go to Market Strategy: Find the high-growth channels to invest your marketing efforts and increase your customer base.

Innovation Mapping: Identify racial solutions and innovation, connected to deep ecosystems of innovators, start-ups, academics, and strategic partners.

Category Intelligence: Customized intelligence that is relevant to their supply Markets will enable them to make smarter sourcing decisions and improve their category management.

Public Company Transcript Analysis: To improve the investment performance by generating new alpha and making better-informed decisions.

Social Media Listening: To analyze the conversations and trends happening not just around your brand, but around your industry as a whole, and use those insights to make better Marketing decisions.

$5,300
BUY NOW

REQUEST FOR SAMPLE

Want to customize this report?
REQUEST FREE CUSTOMIZATION

FAQs

Light Weapons Market size was valued at USD 14.85 billion in 2022 and is poised to grow from USD 15.68 billion in 2023 to USD 24.25 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period (2024-2031).

These businesses engage in mergers and acquisitions or strategic partnerships for the creation of new products and the advancement of technology. the market will continue to innovate and adapt to meet the changing needs of armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilian users. 'Lockheed Martin Corporation (United States)', 'General Dynamics Corporation (United States)', 'BAE Systems plc (United Kingdom)', 'Raytheon Technologies Corporation (United States)', 'Thales Group (France)', 'FN Herstal (Belgium)', 'Heckler & Koch GmbH (Germany)', 'Beretta Holding S.p.A. (Italy)', 'Kalashnikov Concern (Russia)', 'Israel Weapon Industries (Israel)', 'Northrop Grumman Corporation (United States)', 'Rheinmetall AG (Germany)', 'Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC (United States)', 'Česká zbrojovka Group SE (Czech Republic)', 'Sig Sauer, Inc. (United States)', 'Norinco International Cooperation Ltd. (China)', 'Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. (United States)', 'Taurus Holdings, Inc. (Brazil)', 'Arsenal JSCo (Bulgaria)', 'ST Engineering (Singapore)', 'Denel SOC Ltd (South Africa)'

Many countries invest in defense modernization programs to enhance their military capabilities. These programs include the acquisition of advanced light weapons systems to replace outdated equipment and improve the operational effectiveness of armed forces. The need for modernization drives the demand for small arms, ammunition, and other light weapons.

There is a growing demand for lightweight and portable light weapons systems. Military forces and security agencies seek compact and highly mobile weapon systems that provide manoeuvrability, ease of deployment, and operational flexibility. This trend is driving the development of compact assault rifles, compact submachine guns, and other lightweight light weapons.

North America is the largest market for light weapons, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. North America is expected to remain the largest market during the forecast period, due to the presence of a large number of defense and homeland security organizations in the region. These organizations are constantly upgrading their weapons systems to meet the evolving threats.

Request Free Customization

Want to customize this report? This report can be personalized according to your needs. Our analysts and industry experts will work directly with you to understand your requirements and provide you with customized data in a short amount of time. We offer $1000 worth of FREE customization at the time of purchase.

logo-images

Feedback From Our Clients

Light Weapons Market

Report ID: SQMIG20A2160

sales@skyquestt.com
USA +1 351-333-4748

BUY NOW GET FREE SAMPLE