USD 4.50 billion
Target Drone Market Size, Share, Growth Analysis, By Engine Type(Internal Combustion, Jet, Others), By Mode of Operation(Autonomous, Remotely Piloted, Optionally Piloted), By Type(Fixed wing, Rotary wing), By Build(New Build, Converted), By By Application(Combat Training, Target and Decoy, Reconnaissance, Others), By End Use Sector(Defense, Commercial), By End Use(Aerial target, Ground target, Marine target), By Target Type(Full scale, Sub-scale, Free flying, Others), By Payload Capacity(High (>40Kg), Medium (20Kg-40Kg), Low (<20 Kg)), By Region - Industry Forecast 2025-2032
Report ID:
SQMIG20A2177 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: February, 2024
Pages:
157
|Tables:
251
|Figures:
77
Target Drone Market Insights
Target Drone Market size was valued at USD 4.83 Billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 5.19 Billion in 2024 to USD 9.19 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period (2025-2032).
The global target drone market has been witnessing substantial growth, primarily driven by increasing investments in military modernization programs, advancements in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, and a growing focus on enhancing military training capabilities. Target drones, also known as unmanned target vehicles (UTVs), are remotely controlled aerial systems designed to simulate enemy aircraft or missiles for training and testing purposes. The market is characterized by a diverse range of players, including defense contractors, aerospace companies, and UAV manufacturers, offering a variety of target drone solutions tailored to the requirements of military forces worldwide.
Companies such as Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Northrop Grumman Corporation, QinetiQ Group plc, and Airbus SE are among the key players dominating the market, leveraging their expertise in UAV technology and defense systems to meet the evolving needs of defense agencies. One of the primary drivers of the target drone market is the increasing emphasis on realistic and cost-effective training exercises by defense forces across the globe.
Target drones provide a valuable means for military personnel to practice aerial combat maneuvers, missile engagements, and anti-aircraft defense tactics in a controlled environment, thereby enhancing operational readiness and effectiveness.
Furthermore, the rising adoption of unmanned systems in military operations, coupled with advancements in autonomy and artificial intelligence, is fueling the demand for advanced target drones capable of emulating complex threat scenarios. Modern target drones are equipped with sophisticated sensors, communication systems, and maneuvering capabilities to simulate a wide range of aerial threats, including fighter jets, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
However, challenges such as regulatory constraints, airspace restrictions, and concerns regarding safety and reliability remain key impediments to market growth. Additionally, the emergence of alternative training technologies such as virtual reality (VR) simulations and synthetic training environments poses a competitive threat to the target drone market. Looking ahead, the global target drone market is poised for continued expansion, driven by ongoing military modernization efforts, the proliferation of unmanned systems, and the growing demand for realistic training solutions.
Market players are expected to focus on innovation, product development, and collaboration with defense agencies to capitalize on emerging opportunities and maintain their competitive edge in the evolving landscape of military training and simulation.
Market snapshot - 2024-2031
Global Market Size
Largest Segment
Subsonic Target Drones
Fastest Growth
Subsonic Target Drones
Growth Rate
7.4% CAGR
Global Target Drone Market ($ Bn)
Country Share for North America Region (%)
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Target Drone Market Segmental Analysis
Global Target Drone Market is segmented by Engine Type, Mode of Operation Type, Build, Application, End use sector, End use, Target Type, Payload capacity and region. Based on Engine type, the market can be segmented into Internal Combustion, Jet, Others. Based on Mode of operation, the market is segmented into Autonomous, Remotely Piloted, Optionally Piloted. Based on Type, the market is segmented into Fixed wing, Rotary wing. Based on Build, the market is segmented into New Build, Converted. Based on Application, the market can be segmented into Combat Training, Target and Decoy, Reconnaissance, Others. Based on End use sector, the market is segmented into Defense, Commercial. Based on End use, the market is segmented into Aerial target, Ground target, Marine target. Based on Target Type, the market is segmented into Full scale, Sub-scale, Free flying, Others. Based on Payload Capacity, the market is segmented into High (>40Kg), Medium (20Kg-40Kg), Low (<20 Kg). Based on Region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa.
Target Drone Market Analysis By Type
In the target drone market, the subsonic target drones currently dominate the market. These drones are widely used for military training exercises, weapons testing, and simulation scenarios due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. They provide realistic target representations and are commonly employed to enhance combat readiness and precision in missile systems.
On the other hand, the hypersonic target drones segment is experiencing the fastest growth. As advancements in aerospace technology push the boundaries of speed and maneuverability, the demand for hypersonic target drones has surged. These drones can simulate extremely difficult scenarios involving hypersonic missiles, giving military personnel and defensive systems the necessary training to effectively resist impending threats. Hypersonic target drones are growing rapidly due to the need to counter complex aerial threats and the changing nature of global security.
Target Drone Market Analysis By Application
The military training and simulation segment is clearly the industry leader in the target drone market. This is mostly because there is a growing focus on improving the military forces' combat preparedness and skills through realistic training exercises. During training exercises, military personnel can interact with target drones as a realistic opponent, which helps them practice critical combat abilities in a safe setting.
Additionally, the target drone market's fastest-growing category is turning out to be the surveillance and reconnaissance application. Target drones are extremely useful tools for the military and security services because of their sophisticated capacities to carry out reconnaissance, collect intelligence in real time, and conduct surveillance operations in a variety of operational scenarios. The demand for target drones in the surveillance and reconnaissance industry has risen as a result of their capability to ensure situational awareness, secure monitoring of activities, and the ability to assess terrain without risking human life.
Global Target Drone Market By Type of Target Drone
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Target Drone Market Regional Insights
North America holds the top position in the market thanks to the fact that it serves as a base for various significant defense manufacturing and research centers, its rapid technical development, and its increased investments in the defense sector. The region’s well-established defense industry and current military modernization initiatives for uses in weapon testing, surveillance, and military training have driven target drone demand in this segment. The US has heavily contributed to the expansion of the drone market in North America.
Europe is the second largest region in the target drone market. This is a result of the region’s nations making substantial investments in defense modernization and training initiatives. As several European countries focus on improving their military readiness and capabilities, there has been a continuous rise in the demand for target drones for training and simulation and research and development. Countries like the UK, Germany, and France have greatly contributed to this region’s market demand.
Global Target Drone Market By Region
- Largest
- Fastest
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Target Drone Market Dynamics
Target Drone Market Drivers
Military Modernization
- In response to armed forces around the globe upgrading their defense and training systems, the demand for sophisticated and realistic target drones for the purpose of military training and simulation has increased.
Weapon Systems Testing
- The wide utilization of target drones in testing new weaponry and assessing their precision, efficacy, and compatibility with different platforms has fueled the growth of the global target drones market.
Target Drone Market Restraints
Regulatory Challenges
- The operation of drones, including target drones, is placed under strict airspace laws and limits, which can possibly inhibit their adoption and expansion.
Cybersecurity Concerns
- The integration of advanced technologies in target dronesonly make it a target for concerns about cybersecurity, thus potentially decreasing the rate of adoption of these products.
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Target Drone Market Competitive Landscape
The target drone market is highly competitive, with multiple major competitors actively promoting market expansion through technological innovations, creative product development, and tactical alliances. Among the leading firms in the market are Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., AeroTargets International, LLC, Northrop Grumman Corporation, QinetiQ Group plc, Airbus SE, and Boeing. These businesses are concentrating on creating cutting-edge target drone systems to meet different military and defense training needs. Enhancing realism, durability, and mobility are just a few examples of the innovative target drone technologies that these gamers are utilizing to stay competitive. Collaborations with defense organizations and research institutions for joint development of target drones are also prevalent, allowing manufacturers to leverage their expertise in unmanned aerial systems.
Target Drone Market Top Player’s Company Profiles
- Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- QinetiQ Group plc
- The Boeing Company
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- Leonardo S.p.A.
- Raytheon Technologies Corporation
- Textron Inc.
- BAE Systems plc
- Meggitt PLC
- Thales Group
- Saab AB
- Denel Dynamics
Target Drone Market Recent Developments
- In March 2023, Qinteiq received a contract from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force for providing Banshee Jet 80+ unmanned aerial vehicle targets.
- In February 2023, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Inc. received a contract worth USD 20 million from an international customer for providing an unmanned aerial target drone system and related services.
- In February 2023, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Inc. received a contract worth USD 14 million from an international customer for providing logistics support, spares, consumables, and support.
Target Drone Key Market Trends
- Rise in Military Training and Simulation: The increasing emphasis on realistic military training and simulation exercises is driving the demand for target drones. These drones replicate enemy aircraft or threats, providing invaluable training opportunities for armed forces to enhance their combat readiness and tactics.
Target Drone Market SkyQuest Analysis
SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Component types team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyzes the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
According to our global target drone market analysis, the target drone market is witnessing significant growth driven by several factors. Target drones are essential for military training, weapons testing, surveillance, and research and development activities. They provide realistic simulations of enemy threats, enabling armed forces to enhance combat readiness and tactical strategies. Advancements in drone technology, including AI integration and improved sensors, are making these drones more sophisticated and effective. The market is segmented based on application into military training and simulation, weapons testing, surveillance and reconnaissance, and research and development. The global target drone market is set to continue its expansion as defense forces worldwide seek to enhance their training and testing capabilities in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.
| Report Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size value in 2022 | USD 4.50 billion |
| Market size value in 2031 | USD 8.56 billion |
| Growth Rate | 7.4% |
| Base year | 2023 |
| Forecast period | 2024-2031 |
| Forecast Unit (Value) | USD Billion |
| Segments covered |
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| 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 |
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| Customization scope | Free report customization with purchase. Customization includes:-
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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 Target Drone 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
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- 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 Target Drone 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
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- 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
- Competitive rivalry
- 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(%)
- Total number of companies covered
Methodology
For the Target Drone 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 Target Drone 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 Target Drone Market:
Product Analysis: Product matrix, which offers a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of companies.
Regional Analysis: Further analysis of the Target Drone 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.
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