
Airborne Weapon System Market
Airborne Weapon System Market Forecasts to 2030 - Global Analysis By Platform (Fixed-Wing Aircraft, Rotary-Wing Aircraft, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Special Mission Aircraft and Other Platforms), Weapon Type, Component, Technology, End User and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Airborne Weapon System Market is accounted for $91.89 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $128.82 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period. An Airborne Weapon System refers to a sophisticated platform integrated into aircraft to deliver precision-guided munitions or perform defensive and offensive operations. These systems include advanced weaponry such as missiles, bombs, or guns, alongside targeting, navigation, and communication technologies. Designed for use in fighter jets, helicopters, drones, or bombers, they ensure strategic advantages in military operations. Equipped with sensors and real-time data capabilities, airborne weapon systems provide enhanced accuracy, mobility, and situational awareness. Their versatility supports roles in air-to-air, air-to-ground, or maritime missions, making them crucial in modern defense and combat strategies.
According to Defense Ministry of USA, The performance of United States weapon systems are unmatched, ensuring that U.S. military forces have a tactical combat advantage over any opposition in any environmental situation.
Market Dynamics:
Driver:
Increased defense budgets
Higher budgets enable governments to modernize their air combat capabilities by investing in advanced weapon systems, including precision-guided munitions and hypersonic missiles. These investments aim to address evolving security threats, enhance national defense strategies, and maintain military superiority. Furthermore, greater financing promotes R&D, supporting innovation in next-generation weapon systems. It also boosts procurement contracts for defense contractors, expanding their production capacities. This upward trend in defense spending creates a robust demand for airborne weapon systems, propelling market expansion.
Restraint:
High development and acquisition costs
The expenses required for research, design, and testing make it challenging for smaller countries and defense companies to invest in advanced systems. For defense contractors, the substantial upfront investment required reduces the potential for profit margins, making these systems less attractive. Government agencies and military forces may struggle to allocate sufficient budgets for procurement, delaying acquisition cycles. This economic strain can also result in fewer product innovations, reducing competitiveness in the market. Additionally, long-term maintenance and operational costs further complicate procurement decisions.
Opportunity:
Growing demand in emerging economies
Rapid economic growth in these regions enables increased defense budgets, allowing nations to modernize their military capabilities. Geopolitical tensions and border security concerns further compel these countries to invest in advanced airborne weapon systems. Additionally, the rise in domestic aerospace industries in emerging economies fosters partnerships and collaborations with global defense manufacturers. Governments prioritize acquiring state-of-the-art technologies to strengthen air combat and surveillance capabilities. As a result, the demand for versatile and efficient airborne weapon systems continues to rise in these markets.
Threat:
Ethical and political concerns
The use of advanced weaponry raises moral questions about its potential for misuse and the harm it could cause to civilians. The deployment of these weapons in conflicts often leads to civilian casualties, triggering public backlash. Political tensions and international regulations restrict the export and development of AWS, creating barriers to market growth. Governments face public opposition and scrutiny over investments in military technologies, affecting budget allocations. Furthermore, ethical debates about autonomous weapons and their decision-making capabilities challenge their legitimacy.
Covid-19 Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the airborne weapon system market, impacting production, supply chains, and defense budgets worldwide. Travel restrictions and lockdowns delayed manufacturing and testing processes, causing project timelines to shift. Defense spending priorities temporarily shifted towards healthcare and economic recovery, leading to a slowdown in new orders. However, rising geopolitical tensions sustained demand in some regions, emphasizing the importance of advanced military capabilities. The industry adapted by adopting digital technologies and resilient supply chain strategies, ensuring recovery and long-term growth.
The gun segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The gun segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period, due to its versatility and effectiveness in various combat scenarios. Guns are widely used for air-to-ground and air-to-air engagements, making them essential for both offensive and defensive missions. Their ability to provide sustained firepower and precision targeting enhances operational capabilities for military aircraft. Technological advancements, such as automated targeting systems and increased fire rates, further boost their adoption. Guns are also cost-effective compared to missiles, making them a preferred choice for budget-conscious defense programs. This combination of adaptability, efficiency, and affordability drives their critical role in the growth of the airborne weapon system market.
The military segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
The military segment is anticipated to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period, due to increased defense budgets and modernization programs across nations. Growing geopolitical tensions and territorial disputes necessitate advanced airborne weapon systems to ensure national security. These systems offer enhanced precision, range, and efficiency, critical for modern warfare scenarios. Adoption of technologies like AI, hypersonic missiles, and autonomous systems further boosts demand. Additionally, the replacement of aging fleets with cutting-edge platforms supports market growth. Collaborative efforts between governments and defense manufacturers accelerate innovations and deployment, solidifying the military segment's influence.
Region with largest share:
Asia Pacific is expected to have the largest market share over the projection period, owing to increased defence budgets and geopolitical tensions. Countries like China, India, and Japan are investing heavily in advanced air combat systems to enhance their military capabilities. The demand for precision-guided munitions, advanced missile systems, and drones is rising due to the need for modernization and strategic deterrence. Collaborative efforts between regional governments and global defense contractors are fostering innovation and localization of production. As a result, the Asia-Pacific region is emerging as a key hub for the development and deployment of cutting-edge airborne weapon technologies.
Region with highest CAGR:
North America is predicted to have the highest CAGR throughout the forecast period, owing to rising defence budgets and developments in military technology. The U.S. remains the dominant player in this market, driven by its strategic focus on modernizing air forces and defense systems. Key drivers include the demand for advanced missile systems, precision-guided munitions, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into weapon systems is also a significant trend, enhancing targeting and operational efficiency. Moreover, defense collaborations and joint ventures are accelerating innovation and expanding market opportunities for airborne weapon systems in North America.
Key players in the market
Some of the key players profiled in the Airborne Weapon System Market include Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, The Boeing Company, Raytheon Technologies Corporation, BAE Systems plc, General Dynamics Corporation, L3Harris Technologies, Inc., Elbit Systems Ltd., Saab AB, Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd., Leonardo S.p.A., Thales Group, Rheinmetall AG, General Electric Company, Rolls-Royce Holdings plc, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Dassault Aviation and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
Key Developments:
In July 2024, Lockheed Martin received a $1.56 billion contract from the U.S. Navy to support the already delivered F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter air systems. This contract underscores Lockheed Martin's ongoing commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the F-35 program.
In June 2024, Lockheed Martin and German weapons manufacturer Rheinmetall signed a preliminary agreement to expand their collaboration across land, air, and naval forces. The pact includes cooperation on rocket-artillery and laser-weapon systems, short-range air defense, and training for land vehicles and helicopters.
In May 2024, Northrop Grumman's B-21 Raider continued its flight test campaign at Edwards Air Force Base, California. This sixth-generation aircraft is designed to enhance long-range strike capabilities for the U.S. Air Force.
Platforms Covered:
• Fixed-Wing Aircraft
• Rotary-Wing Aircraft
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
• Special Mission Aircraft
• Other Platforms
Weapon Types Covered:
• Bomb
• Gun
• Rifles
• Missiles
• Other Weapon Types
Components Covered:
• Weapon Control Systems
• Sensors
• Launch Systems
• Propulsion Systems
• Guidance Systems
• Other Components
Technologies Covered:
• Hypersonic Weapons
• Stealth Technology
• Network-Centric Warfare
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Enabled Weapons
• Autonomous Weapon Systems
• Other Technologies
End Users Covered:
• Military
• Homeland Security
• Special Forces
• Other End Users
Regions Covered:
• North America
o US
o Canada
o Mexico
• Europe
o Germany
o UK
o Italy
o France
o Spain
o Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
o Japan
o China
o India
o Australia
o New Zealand
o South Korea
o Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
o Argentina
o Brazil
o Chile
o Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
o Saudi Arabia
o UAE
o Qatar
o South Africa
o Rest of Middle East & Africa
What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2030
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements
Free Customization Offerings:
All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:
• Company Profiling
o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
o Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
o Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances
Table of Contents
1 Executive Summary
2 Preface
2.1 Abstract
2.2 Stake Holders
2.3 Research Scope
2.4 Research Methodology
2.4.1 Data Mining
2.4.2 Data Analysis
2.4.3 Data Validation
2.4.4 Research Approach
2.5 Research Sources
2.5.1 Primary Research Sources
2.5.2 Secondary Research Sources
2.5.3 Assumptions
3 Market Trend Analysis
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Drivers
3.3 Restraints
3.4 Opportunities
3.5 Threats
3.6 Technology Analysis
3.7 End User Analysis
3.8 Emerging Markets
3.9 Impact of Covid-19
4 Porters Five Force Analysis
4.1 Bargaining power of suppliers
4.2 Bargaining power of buyers
4.3 Threat of substitutes
4.4 Threat of new entrants
4.5 Competitive rivalry
5 Global Airborne Weapon System Market, By Platform
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Fixed-Wing Aircraft
5.2.1 Fighter Jets
5.2.2 Bombers
5.2.3 Transport Aircraft
5.3 Rotary-Wing Aircraft
5.3.1 Attack Helicopters
5.3.2 Utility Helicopters
5.4 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
5.4.1 Combat UAVs
5.4.2 Surveillance UAVs
5.5 Special Mission Aircraft
5.5.1 Maritime Patrol Aircraft
5.5.2 Reconnaissance Aircraft
5.6 Other Platforms
6 Global Airborne Weapon System Market, By Weapon Type
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Bomb
6.3 Gun
6.4 Rifles
6.5 Missiles
6.6 Other Weapon Types
7 Global Airborne Weapon System Market, By Component
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Weapon Control Systems
7.2.1 Fire Control Systems
7.2.2 Target Acquisition Systems
7.3 Sensors
7.3.1 Radar
7.3.2 Infrared
7.3.3 Laser Rangefinders
7.4 Launch Systems
7.4.1 Missile Launchers
7.4.2 Bomb Release Units
7.5 Propulsion Systems
7.6 Guidance Systems
7.7 Other Components
8 Global Airborne Weapon System Market, By Technology
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Hypersonic Weapons
8.3 Stealth Technology
8.4 Network-Centric Warfare
8.5 Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Enabled Weapons
8.6 Autonomous Weapon Systems
8.7 Other Technologies
9 Global Airborne Weapon System Market, By End User
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Military
9.2.1 Air Force
9.2.2 Navy
9.2.3 Army
9.3 Homeland Security
9.4 Special Forces
9.5 Other End Users
10 Global Airborne Weapon System Market, By Geography
10.1 Introduction
10.2 North America
10.2.1 US
10.2.2 Canada
10.2.3 Mexico
10.3 Europe
10.3.1 Germany
10.3.2 UK
10.3.3 Italy
10.3.4 France
10.3.5 Spain
10.3.6 Rest of Europe
10.4 Asia Pacific
10.4.1 Japan
10.4.2 China
10.4.3 India
10.4.4 Australia
10.4.5 New Zealand
10.4.6 South Korea
10.4.7 Rest of Asia Pacific
10.5 South America
10.5.1 Argentina
10.5.2 Brazil
10.5.3 Chile
10.5.4 Rest of South America
10.6 Middle East & Africa
10.6.1 Saudi Arabia
10.6.2 UAE
10.6.3 Qatar
10.6.4 South Africa
10.6.5 Rest of Middle East & Africa
11 Key Developments
11.1 Agreements, Partnerships, Collaborations and Joint Ventures
11.2 Acquisitions & Mergers
11.3 New Product Launch
11.4 Expansions
11.5 Other Key Strategies
12 Company Profiling
12.1 Lockheed Martin Corporation
12.2 Northrop Grumman Corporation
12.3 The Boeing Company
12.4 Raytheon Technologies Corporation
12.5 BAE Systems plc
12.6 General Dynamics Corporation
12.7 L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
12.8 Elbit Systems Ltd.
12.9 Saab AB
12.10 Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.
12.11 Leonardo S.p.A.
12.12 Thales Group
12.12 Rheinmetall AG
12.14 General Electric Company
12.15 Rolls-Royce Holdings plc
12.16 Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
12.17 Dassault Aviation
12.18 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
List of Tables
1 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Region (2022-2030) ($MN)
2 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Platform (2022-2030) ($MN)
3 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Fixed-Wing Aircraft (2022-2030) ($MN)
4 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Fighter Jets (2022-2030) ($MN)
5 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Bombers (2022-2030) ($MN)
6 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Transport Aircraft (2022-2030) ($MN)
7 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Rotary-Wing Aircraft (2022-2030) ($MN)
8 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Attack Helicopters (2022-2030) ($MN)
9 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Utility Helicopters (2022-2030) ($MN)
10 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) (2022-2030) ($MN)
11 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Combat UAVs (2022-2030) ($MN)
12 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Surveillance UAVs (2022-2030) ($MN)
13 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Special Mission Aircraft (2022-2030) ($MN)
14 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Maritime Patrol Aircraft (2022-2030) ($MN)
15 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Reconnaissance Aircraft (2022-2030) ($MN)
16 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Other Platforms (2022-2030) ($MN)
17 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Weapon Type (2022-2030) ($MN)
18 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Bomb (2022-2030) ($MN)
19 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Gun (2022-2030) ($MN)
20 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Rifles (2022-2030) ($MN)
21 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Missiles (2022-2030) ($MN)
22 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Other Weapon Types (2022-2030) ($MN)
23 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Component (2022-2030) ($MN)
24 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Weapon Control Systems (2022-2030) ($MN)
25 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Fire Control Systems (2022-2030) ($MN)
26 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Target Acquisition Systems (2022-2030) ($MN)
27 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Sensors (2022-2030) ($MN)
28 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Radar (2022-2030) ($MN)
29 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Infrared (2022-2030) ($MN)
30 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Laser Rangefinders (2022-2030) ($MN)
31 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Launch Systems (2022-2030) ($MN)
32 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Missile Launchers (2022-2030) ($MN)
33 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Bomb Release Units (2022-2030) ($MN)
34 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Propulsion Systems (2022-2030) ($MN)
35 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Guidance Systems (2022-2030) ($MN)
36 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Other Components (2022-2030) ($MN)
37 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Technology (2022-2030) ($MN)
38 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Hypersonic Weapons (2022-2030) ($MN)
39 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Stealth Technology (2022-2030) ($MN)
40 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Network-Centric Warfare (2022-2030) ($MN)
41 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Enabled Weapons (2022-2030) ($MN)
42 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Autonomous Weapon Systems (2022-2030) ($MN)
43 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Other Technologies (2022-2030) ($MN)
44 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By End User (2022-2030) ($MN)
45 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Military (2022-2030) ($MN)
46 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Air Force (2022-2030) ($MN)
47 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Navy (2022-2030) ($MN)
48 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Army (2022-2030) ($MN)
49 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Homeland Security (2022-2030) ($MN)
50 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Special Forces (2022-2030) ($MN)
51 Global Airborne Weapon System Market Outlook, By Other End Users (2022-2030) ($MN)
Note: Tables for North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East & Africa Regions are also represented in the same manner as above.
List of Figures
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

We at ‘Stratistics’ opt for an extensive research approach which involves data mining, data validation, and data analysis. The various research sources include in-house repository, secondary research, competitor’s sources, social media research, client internal data, and primary research.
Our team of analysts prefers the most reliable and authenticated data sources in order to perform the comprehensive literature search. With access to most of the authenticated data bases our team highly considers the best mix of information through various sources to obtain extensive and accurate analysis.
Each report takes an average time of a month and a team of 4 industry analysts. The time may vary depending on the scope and data availability of the desired market report. The various parameters used in the market assessment are standardized in order to enhance the data accuracy.
Data Mining
The data is collected from several authenticated, reliable, paid and unpaid sources and is filtered depending on the scope & objective of the research. Our reports repository acts as an added advantage in this procedure. Data gathering from the raw material suppliers, distributors and the manufacturers is performed on a regular basis, this helps in the comprehensive understanding of the products value chain. Apart from the above mentioned sources the data is also collected from the industry consultants to ensure the objective of the study is in the right direction.
Market trends such as technological advancements, regulatory affairs, market dynamics (Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities and Challenges) are obtained from scientific journals, market related national & international associations and organizations.
Data Analysis
From the data that is collected depending on the scope & objective of the research the data is subjected for the analysis. The critical steps that we follow for the data analysis include:
- Product Lifecycle Analysis
- Competitor analysis
- Risk analysis
- Porters Analysis
- PESTEL Analysis
- SWOT Analysis
The data engineering is performed by the core industry experts considering both the Marketing Mix Modeling and the Demand Forecasting. The marketing mix modeling makes use of multiple-regression techniques to predict the optimal mix of marketing variables. Regression factor is based on a number of variables and how they relate to an outcome such as sales or profits.
Data Validation
The data validation is performed by the exhaustive primary research from the expert interviews. This includes telephonic interviews, focus groups, face to face interviews, and questionnaires to validate our research from all aspects. The industry experts we approach come from the leading firms, involved in the supply chain ranging from the suppliers, distributors to the manufacturers and consumers so as to ensure an unbiased analysis.
We are in touch with more than 15,000 industry experts with the right mix of consultants, CEO's, presidents, vice presidents, managers, experts from both supply side and demand side, executives and so on.
The data validation involves the primary research from the industry experts belonging to:
- Leading Companies
- Suppliers & Distributors
- Manufacturers
- Consumers
- Industry/Strategic Consultants
Apart from the data validation the primary research also helps in performing the fill gap research, i.e. providing solutions for the unmet needs of the research which helps in enhancing the reports quality.
For more details about research methodology, kindly write to us at info@strategymrc.com
Frequently Asked Questions
In case of any queries regarding this report, you can contact the customer service by filing the “Inquiry Before Buy” form available on the right hand side. You may also contact us through email: info@strategymrc.com or phone: +1-301-202-5929
Yes, the samples are available for all the published reports. You can request them by filling the “Request Sample” option available in this page.
Yes, you can request a sample with your specific requirements. All the customized samples will be provided as per the requirement with the real data masked.
All our reports are available in Digital PDF format. In case if you require them in any other formats, such as PPT, Excel etc you can submit a request through “Inquiry Before Buy” form available on the right hand side. You may also contact us through email: info@strategymrc.com or phone: +1-301-202-5929
We offer a free 15% customization with every purchase. This requirement can be fulfilled for both pre and post sale. You may send your customization requirements through email at info@strategymrc.com or call us on +1-301-202-5929.
We have 3 different licensing options available in electronic format.
- Single User Licence: Allows one person, typically the buyer, to have access to the ordered product. The ordered product cannot be distributed to anyone else.
- 2-5 User Licence: Allows the ordered product to be shared among a maximum of 5 people within your organisation.
- Corporate License: Allows the product to be shared among all employees of your organisation regardless of their geographical location.
All our reports are typically be emailed to you as an attachment.
To order any available report you need to register on our website. The payment can be made either through CCAvenue or PayPal payments gateways which accept all international cards.
We extend our support to 6 months post sale. A post sale customization is also provided to cover your unmet needs in the report.
Request Customization
We provide a free 15% customization on every purchase. This requirement can be fulfilled for both pre and post sale. You may send your customization requirements through email at info@strategymrc.com or call us on +1-301-202-5929.
Note: This customization is absolutely free until it falls under the 15% bracket. If your requirement exceeds this a feasibility check will be performed. Post that, a quote will be provided along with the timelines.
WHY CHOOSE US ?

Assured Quality
Best in class reports with high standard of research integrity

24X7 Research Support
Continuous support to ensure the best customer experience.

Free Customization
Adding more values to your product of interest.

Safe & Secure Access
Providing a secured environment for all online transactions.

Trusted by 600+ Brands
Serving the most reputed brands across the world.