Automatic Weapons Market
Report ID: SQMIG20A2322
Report ID: SQMIG20A2322
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Report ID:
SQMIG20A2322 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: June, 2025
Pages:
196
|Tables:
91
|Figures:
71
Global Automatic Weapons Market size was valued at USD 7.09 Billion in 2024 and is poised to grow from USD 7.38 Billion in 2025 to USD 10.26 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period (2026–2033).
Rising global geopolitical tensions, such as border conflicts, insurgencies, and intensified threats from non-state actors, are pushing governments to reenforce national security through sophisticated military solutions. As a direct implication, the defense expenditure is rising sharply, especially in East Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. The growing spending on the military propels the global demand for advanced automatic weapons providing greater firepower and quick response, thus fueling the global automatic weapons market to a huge extent.
Rapid advancements in automatic weapon technologies—such as improved accuracy, smart targeting, modular designs, and reduced recoil systems—are reshaping modern warfare. These technologies improve combat effectiveness and operational efficiency on the battlefield, making older systems antiquated. While armed forces race to upgrade arsenals with latest-generation automatic fire systems that incorporate advanced battlefield management systems, the demand keeps expanding. This level of technological growth is one driver of procurement policy and the formation of next-generation weapon systems for defense industries in countries around the world.
What role do AI-Powered Autonomous Weapons Play in Combat Efficiency?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is profoundly revolutionizing the global automatic weapons market by upgrading the capabilities of weapons and military tactics. AI incorporation allows the production of autonomous weapons systems that can detect and target without the presence of humans, thus maximizing combat effectiveness and minimizing the risk to soldiers. For example, Sweden is pushing the development of AI-driven drone swarms that work together in real time for reconnaissance and strike operations to support NATO defenses. This drive stimulates demand for advanced automatic weapons, thereby directly improving the market size. At the same time, the emergence of AI-based autonomous weapons creates ethical and regulatory issues, and international discussions around the proper use of such technology follow.
In December 2024, the UN General Assembly initiated international consultations aimed at advancing negotiations on regulating automatic weapons systems. This action is an indication of increased international concern regarding the moral, legal, and security implications of AI-powered military technologies, calling for urgent international norms to regulate their development and use.
How are Startups Reshaping the Development of Automatic Weapons Systems in Modern Warfare?
The startup environment of the global automatic weapons market is changing with the adoption of AI, robotics, and advanced targeting systems. New defense tech startups are working on modularity, intelligent fire-control, and unmanned weapon platforms. These companies tend to be funded by government contracts, defense accelerators, and strategic collaborations. As wars go high-tech, these quick-turnaround innovators are playing a critical part in transforming how weapons are developed, deployed, and integrated into larger defense systems.
Founded in 2011, SmartShooter is a defense-tech startup specializing in fire-control systems that transform standard rifles into smart, precision-guided weapons. One of its best-selling products, SMASH 2000, employs AI, computer vision, and real-time target algorithms to lock and track targets automatically, guaranteeing first-shot accuracy—even against drones. Its R&D innovation, autonomous drone-interception by small arms, is transforming ground-level anti-drone warfare, providing a low-cost, soldier-usable solution to increasing aerial threats in asymmetric warfare.
Established in the year 2015, Ghost Robotics specializes in robotic quadrupeds for defense and security purposes. Its famous product, Vision 60, is a robot dog equipped with automatic weapons like the SPUR (Special Purpose Unmanned Rifle). Vision 60 has the ability to patrol, monitor, and interact with minimal human interference. The company’s R&D innovation involves semi-autonomous perimeter defense using armed robots, enabling persistent security in contested or hazardous environments, reducing troop exposure while enhancing strategic responsiveness.
Market snapshot - 2026-2033
Global Market Size
USD 6.8 billion
Largest Segment
Missiles
Fastest Growth
Guided Rockets
Growth Rate
4.2% CAGR
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Global Automatic Weapons Market is segmented by Type, Caliber, End Use and region. Based on Type, the market is segmented into Submachine Guns, Assault Rifles, Light Machine Guns and Others (Automatic Pistols, etc.). Based on Caliber, the market is segmented into 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm and Others. Based on End Use, the market is segmented into Military, Law Enforcement, Private Security and Others. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.
Missiles are at the forefront of innovation in the global automatic weapons market due to advancements in precision guidance, AI-enabled targeting, and extended strike capabilities. Advanced missiles are integrated with real-time data handling, satellite-guidance, and self-contained decision-making to add lethal accuracy. They dominate the air due to strategic flexibility—the ability to hit at different ranges and environments—and make them integral in deterrence, tactical excellence, and new-era warfare, particularly in regions involving high-level combat.
Directed rockets are expected to be the fastest-growing category in the global automatic weapons market because they are cost-effective, highly accurate, and versatile for air-to-ground as well as ground-based systems. Their precision striking capability with less collateral damage makes them extremely appealing to contemporary militaries looking for efficient, scalable combat solutions.
Airborne platforms lead the global automatic weapons market due to development in precision-guided munitions (PGMs), hypersonic missiles, and artificial intelligence-targeting systems. These technologies allow for increased strike precision and operating distance, fast response, and strategic advantage. The preeminence of airborne platforms is a result of their unmatched flexibility and ability to project power over long distances, thus rendering them crucial for contemporary military operations.
The land platform is poised to be the fastest-growing segment in the global automatic weapons market. Growing border controversies along land and an increased emphasis on near combat systems are leading to enhanced stockpiling of arsenals with advanced automatic weapons by militaries. Also, the necessity to break through enhanced adversary armor demands stronger weapons, which is further pushing demand for land-based automatic weapons.
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As per the global automatic weapons market analysis, North America accounts for a substantial share in the industry, supported by the strong defense expenditures and technological innovation in weaponry in the U.S. The region is also leading the way in incorporating AI, smart targeting, and autonomous capabilities in military platforms. Continued government investment in defense, continuous modernization in the military, and collaboration with defense contractors continue to drive demand, making North America a primary contributor to growth and innovation in automatic weapons systems.
The U.S. has a strong impact on North America's automatic weapons market through heavy defense expenditure and technological superiority. Key players such as General Dynamics Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, and Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC are headquartered in the U.S., leading to innovation and manufacturing. The U.S. government's effort to advance military capabilities provides a steady need for high-end automatic weapons, solidifying the nation's central role in the market.
Canada contributes to the North America’s automatic weapons market with domestically developed firearms like the Colt Canada C7 and C8 assault rifles, produced by Colt Canada (formerly Diemaco). The rifles are employed by the Canadian Forces and have also been adopted internationally, reflecting the contribution of Canada to the small arms industry. Canada also openly engages in foreign arms markets, as indicated by its proposed submissions to the Automatic Firearms Country Control List to seek out more opportunities for exportation.
Europe is the fastest growing region in the global automatic weapons market, with a number of countries spending a lot of money on defense technology. The UK, France, and Germany are at the forefront of producing advanced weaponry, incorporating AI and precision targeting into military systems. The European Union's emphasis on defense cooperation and modernization efforts also contributes to market demand. Europe's geopolitical situation and membership in NATO also increase the region's impact on international defense and weapon development trends.
France has emerged as a dominant in the Europe’s automatic weapons market, driven by companies like Dassault Aviation, which manufactures the Rafale fighter jet. Between 2019 and 2023, the exports of French arms increased by 47%, overtaking Russia to become the world's second-largest exporter of arms. The biggest buyers are India, Qatar, and Egypt, reflecting France's central position in defense markets across the globe.
Germany also leads the Europe’s automatic weapons market through well-known producers like Rheinmetall AG, which manufactures state-of-the-art armored vehicles such as the Leopard 2 tank. Germany's arms exports hit a record high in 2023 at €12.2 billion, with major shipments to Ukraine. This underlines Germany's fundamental position in defense within Europe and its powerful contribution to military technology.
Asia Pacific is a rapidly growing region in the global automatic weapons market, driven by military modernization and increased defense spending. China, India, and Japan are aggressively investing in sophisticated weapon systems such as AI-based systems and autonomous platforms. Geopolitical rivalry and security threats have raised demand for advanced military technologies. Robust defense industries in the region also fuel an emerging export market, further cementing Asia Pacific's dominance in the world arms market.
Japan has greatly enhanced its presence in the Asia Pacific automatic weapons market by its defense-oriented investments. By having companies such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Sumitomo Corporation, Japan has manufactured high-tech systems such as the Type 10 tank and air defense systems. Japan's defense exports rose in 2023 as a result of its strategic move to boost military powers in the face of regional security threats.
South Korea's automatic weapons market has surged due to its advancements in defense technologies, with major companies like Hyundai Rotem and Samsung Techwin leading in manufacturing tanks and artillery. The arms exports of the country have increased tremendously, and the country's emphasis is on artillery, missiles, and tanks. South Korean weapons, especially its K2 Black Panther tank, are gaining global acclaim.
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Increasing Military Modernization
Geopolitical Tensions and Defense Spending
Ethical Concerns and Public Opposition
Strict Government Regulations
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The global automatic weapons market is highly competitive, with key players like Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Rheinmetall AG, and General Dynamics. These organizations lead through the use of cutting-edge technologies including AI, automation, and precision targeting. Lockheed Martin is committed to next-generation weapons with integrated systems, whereas BAE Systems prioritizes building defense alliances and product versatility. Rheinmetall is focused on innovative solutions to defense, and General Dynamics invests in autonomous systems and cybersecurity for weapon platforms.
SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
As per SkyQuest analysis, the global automatic weapons industry is witnessing high growth, driven by intensifying geopolitical tensions and increasing defense budgets. Sophisticated weapon technologies, including AI-powered systems, autonomous platforms, and advanced targeting technologies, are transforming contemporary warfare and transforming military doctrines globally. As countries update their armed forces, the demand for advanced automatic weapons keeps growing.
In addition to this, increased ethical concerns and strict regulation are impacting the progress and application of such technology. Greater autonomous integration in weaponry serves to increase combat efficiency even more, and further increasing the necessity for light weight, flexible weaponry systems is further evidence of modern warfare's developing nature. Such forces are firming up global automatic weapons market growth and technology increases.
| Report Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size value in 2024 | USD 7.09 Billion |
| Market size value in 2033 | USD 10.26 Billion |
| Growth Rate | 4.2% |
| Base year | 2024 |
| Forecast period | 2026-2033 |
| 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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Table Of Content
Executive Summary
Market overview
Parent Market Analysis
Market overview
Market size
KEY MARKET INSIGHTS
COVID IMPACT
MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK
Market Size by Region
KEY COMPANY PROFILES
Methodology
For the Automatic 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 Automatic 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.
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With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Automatic Weapons Market:
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