GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Arms Industry Statistics

Arms industry statistics provide data on global military spending, arms exports and imports, defense budgets, and weapons production.

Highlights: Arms Industry Statistics

  • The global arms industry was worth $398.2 billion in 2017.
  • In 2020, the arms sales of the top 25 companies alone amounted to $361 billion.
  • The U.S. accounts for 39% of global arms exports between 2016-2020.
  • Saudi Arabia is the world's largest arms importer, with 11% of global imports.
  • Australia increased its armament imports by 37% between 2015-2019.
  • Russian companies listed in the Top 100 arms-producing companies accounted for 20.2% of total sales in 2019.
  • The defense sector contributed $865 billion to U.S. GDP in 2019.
  • In 2020, US companies accounted for 61% of all arms sales by the top 25 manufacturers.
  • China moved into second place in the global rankings for arms production in 2019.
  • Spain's arms exports increased by 44% between 2010 and 2019.
  • In 2019, firearms sales reached all-time highs in the United States, with over 13.9 million guns sold.
  • In 2020, the Indian defense budget was $73.65 billion, making it the third-largest military spender in the world.
  • UK arms manufacturers generated revenues of £35bn in 2020.
  • The Middle East received 33% of U.S. arms transfers from 2015-2019.
  • Sweden’s arms exports went up by 19% between 2011 and 2020.
  • According to Statista, the global arms manufacturing market was expected to reach $470 million by 2021.
  • France's share in the global arms market increased from 5.8% to 7.9% between 2012-2016 and 2017-2021.
  • Canada exported a record-breaking $3.9 billion worth of military equipment in 2019.
  • The US sold $175.08 billion worth of arms in government-to-government deals in 2020.
  • Israel increased its global arms export share from 2.7% to 3.0% between 2012-2016 and 2017-2021.

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The Latest Arms Industry Statistics Explained

The global arms industry was worth $398.2 billion in 2017.

The statistic stating that the global arms industry was worth $398.2 billion in 2017 indicates the total value of sales and revenue generated by companies involved in the manufacturing and selling of weapons, military equipment, and related services worldwide during that year. This significant financial figure highlights the substantial economic impact of the arms industry on a global scale, reflecting the demand for defense and security products across various countries and regions. Such data provides insights into the size and scope of the international arms trade and underscores the ongoing prioritization of defense spending by governments and defense organizations worldwide.

In 2020, the arms sales of the top 25 companies alone amounted to $361 billion.

The statistic indicates that in 2020, the combined arms sales of the top 25 companies in the defense industry reached a staggering $361 billion. This figure underscores the significant financial scale of the global arms trade and the concentration of market power among a small number of major players. The substantial amount of sales highlights the consistent demand for military equipment and technology worldwide, driven by factors such as geopolitical tensions, military modernization efforts, and defense procurement programs. The statistic showcases the economic impact of the defense sector and the strategic importance of these companies in the international arms market.

The U.S. accounts for 39% of global arms exports between 2016-2020.

The statistic that the U.S. accounts for 39% of global arms exports between 2016-2020 means that nearly four out of every ten weapons traded internationally during that time period originated from the United States. This showcases the significant role that the U.S. plays in the arms trade, both in terms of production capabilities and international market share. The U.S. arms industry is a major contributor to the global arms market, influencing geopolitical dynamics and security landscapes around the world. This statistic highlights the extent of American influence in the global arms trade and underscores the importance of the U.S. as a key player in the international defense industry.

Saudi Arabia is the world’s largest arms importer, with 11% of global imports.

The statistic that Saudi Arabia is the world’s largest arms importer, accounting for 11% of global imports, indicates the significant scale of the country’s defense procurement activities. This information suggests that Saudi Arabia’s defense strategy heavily relies on the importation of arms and military equipment to maintain and strengthen its military capabilities. The fact that it accounts for such a substantial percentage of global arms imports highlights the country’s status as a major player in the international arms trade market. This statistic also implies that Saudi Arabia has significant defense expenditures, reflecting its commitment to acquiring advanced military technologies and maintaining a strong defense posture in the region.

Australia increased its armament imports by 37% between 2015-2019.

The statistic indicates that Australia experienced a notable 37% increase in its imports of armaments over the period from 2015 to 2019. This significant rise in armament imports suggests a shift in Australia’s defense strategies or priorities during those years, possibly driven by security concerns, military modernization efforts, or changes in geopolitical dynamics. The increase could also reflect a proactive approach to enhancing Australia’s defense capabilities and readiness. Analyzing the specific types and quantities of armaments imported, as well as considering the broader context of Australia’s strategic objectives and regional security challenges, would provide further insights into the implications and motivations behind this uptick in armament acquisitions.

Russian companies listed in the Top 100 arms-producing companies accounted for 20.2% of total sales in 2019.

The statistic indicates that Russian companies included in the Top 100 arms-producing companies globally contributed approximately 20.2% of the total sales within the industry in 2019. This suggests that Russian arms manufacturers hold a significant market share within the global arms industry, showcasing their prominence and competitiveness in the market. It highlights Russia’s position as a major player in the defense sector, both domestically and internationally, and underscores their influence and impact on the arms market. The statistic suggests that Russian arms manufacturers are important players in the global arms business landscape, generating substantial revenue and solidifying their presence within the industry.

The defense sector contributed $865 billion to U.S. GDP in 2019.

The statistic indicating that the defense sector contributed $865 billion to U.S. GDP in 2019 refers to the economic impact of the defense industry on the overall output of the United States economy during that year. This contribution represents the total value of goods and services produced by companies involved in defense-related activities, such as military equipment manufacturing, defense technology development, and related support services. With such a significant contribution, the defense sector plays a crucial role in sustaining domestic economic growth, creating jobs, and fostering innovation within the country. The statistic highlights the industry’s substantial economic footprint and underscores its importance as a key sector within the U.S. economy.

In 2020, US companies accounted for 61% of all arms sales by the top 25 manufacturers.

In 2020, US companies dominated the global arms sales market by accounting for a substantial 61% share of all arms sales among the top 25 manufacturers. This statistic highlights the significant role played by American defense companies in the global arms industry, depicting their strong market presence and competitive edge. The data signifies the United States’ considerable influence in the international arms trade, as these companies continue to secure lucrative contracts and engage in substantial sales transactions compared to their counterparts from other countries. The statistic underscores the strategic position of US defense manufacturers in the global arena, shaping the dynamics of the arms market and contributing significantly to the country’s economy and defense industry.

China moved into second place in the global rankings for arms production in 2019.

In 2019, China advanced to the second position in worldwide rankings for arms production, indicating a significant increase in its military manufacturing capabilities. This statistic suggests that China’s defense industry has experienced substantial growth and has become a major player in the global arms market. Moving into the second spot highlights China’s efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and solidify its position as a key player in the global defense sector, potentially impacting the balance of power and geopolitics on a global scale.

Spain’s arms exports increased by 44% between 2010 and 2019.

The statistic that Spain’s arms exports increased by 44% between 2010 and 2019 indicates a significant growth in the country’s international arms trade over the specified period. This increase suggests a substantial uptick in the volume or value of arms exported by Spain to various countries around the world during the decade analyzed. Such a growth rate may imply changes in Spain’s defense industry, foreign policy, or global demand for Spanish arms, potentially reflecting economic opportunities or shifts in geopolitical dynamics. This statistic highlights Spain’s increasing participation in the global arms market and potentially raises discussions on the ethics and implications of arms exports for the country and its trade partners.

In 2019, firearms sales reached all-time highs in the United States, with over 13.9 million guns sold.

The statistic that firearms sales reached all-time highs in 2019, with over 13.9 million guns sold in the United States, indicates a significant surge in gun purchases compared to previous years. This increase could be attributed to various factors such as political events, fear of potential gun control legislation, concerns about personal safety, or simply a growing interest in firearms. Analyzing the implications of this trend requires a multidimensional approach that considers social, political, and economic factors, as well as potential impacts on public safety and gun control advocacy efforts. Understanding the reasons behind the surge in firearms sales can offer valuable insights into the dynamics of gun ownership and the broader societal trends that influence such behaviors.

In 2020, the Indian defense budget was $73.65 billion, making it the third-largest military spender in the world.

The statistic indicates that in 2020, India allocated $73.65 billion towards its defense budget, positioning it as the third-largest military spender globally. This significant budget allocation underscores India’s strategic focus on maintaining and enhancing its defense capabilities to address regional security threats and geopolitical challenges. The substantial investment in defense reflects India’s recognition of the importance of bolstering its military readiness and modernizing its armed forces to safeguard its national security interests and assert its position as a key player in the global defense landscape.

UK arms manufacturers generated revenues of £35bn in 2020.

The statistic ‘UK arms manufacturers generated revenues of £35bn in 2020’ indicates the total sales value attributed to the production and sale of arms and military equipment by companies based in the United Kingdom during the year 2020. This figure represents the significant financial impact of the arms industry on the UK economy, highlighting the scale of the market for defense and security products domestically and potentially internationally. The revenue generated from arms sales contributes to the overall economic output of the UK, supporting employment, investment, and innovation within the defense sector while also sparking debates regarding the ethical implications of arms trading and military expenditure.

The Middle East received 33% of U.S. arms transfers from 2015-2019.

The statistic “The Middle East received 33% of U.S. arms transfers from 2015-2019” indicates that the Middle East region accounted for approximately one-third of all arms transfers from the United States during the specified time period. This suggests a significant level of arms sales and transfers from the U.S. to countries in the Middle East, highlighting the region’s strategic significance in terms of defense and security partnerships with the U.S. The statistic implies that the U.S. has been actively involved in supplying military equipment and weapons to countries in the Middle East, potentially impacting regional dynamics and security situations during the specified years.

Sweden’s arms exports went up by 19% between 2011 and 2020.

The statistic indicating that Sweden’s arms exports increased by 19% between 2011 and 2020 suggests a significant rise in the country’s sale of military equipment and weapons over the specified time period. This growth in arms exports may be influenced by various factors such as changes in global conflicts, advancements in military technologies, shifts in foreign policies, or increased demand for Swedish arms products. The 19% increase highlights Sweden’s growing position in the global arms trade market and could have economic implications for the country’s defense industry and international relations.

According to Statista, the global arms manufacturing market was expected to reach $470 million by 2021.

The statistic provided by Statista indicates that the global arms manufacturing market was projected to reach a value of $470 million by the year 2021. This figure implies the total revenue generated from the sales of arms and related equipment worldwide during that specific period. The statistic highlights the substantial size and economic importance of the arms manufacturing industry, showcasing the significant demand for weaponry and defense-related products. This data can be crucial for various stakeholders such as policymakers, military agencies, and investors in understanding the dynamics and value of the global arms market.

France’s share in the global arms market increased from 5.8% to 7.9% between 2012-2016 and 2017-2021.

The statistic indicates that France’s proportion of the global arms market grew from 5.8% to 7.9% over the periods of 2012-2016 and 2017-2021, respectively. This denotes a notable increase in France’s presence and influence in the international arms trade during these time frames. The rise in market share suggests that France’s defense industry likely experienced growth, potentially due to factors such as increased exports, advancements in technology, or successful marketing strategies. This trend signifies France’s competitiveness in the global arms market and highlights the country’s ability to navigate and succeed in the complex and highly competitive landscape of defense manufacturing and sales.

Canada exported a record-breaking $3.9 billion worth of military equipment in 2019.

The statistic “Canada exported a record-breaking $3.9 billion worth of military equipment in 2019” indicates that Canadian military equipment exports reached an all-time high in that year. This suggests a significant increase in the value of military equipment being sold by Canada to other countries, potentially reflecting a growing demand for Canadian-made military products on the global market. The record-breaking figure of $3.9 billion highlights the economic importance of the defense industry to Canada’s economy while also potentially raising concerns about the ethics and implications of militarized exports. It is crucial to consider the potential impact of such high levels of military equipment exports on international relations and global security dynamics.

The US sold $175.08 billion worth of arms in government-to-government deals in 2020.

The statistic indicates the total value of arms sold by the United States to foreign governments through government-to-government deals in 2020, amounting to $175.08 billion. These transactions reflect a significant aspect of the global arms trade and demonstrate the US’s position as a major supplier of military equipment to other countries. Such sales have implications not only for national security and geopolitical relationships but also for economic aspects, as these deals can contribute to the revenue of American defense contractors and agencies. The figure underscores the scale and importance of the arms industry in fueling both international security dynamics and the global economy.

Israel increased its global arms export share from 2.7% to 3.0% between 2012-2016 and 2017-2021.

The statistic indicates that Israel’s global arms export share grew by 0.3% over two distinct time periods (2012-2016 and 2017-2021). This signifies a relative increase in Israel’s presence in the arms export market, from 2.7% to 3.0%. Such an increase can suggest a rise in Israel’s competitiveness and influence in the global arms industry, as it captures a larger share of the market relative to other countries. The growth in arms export share could stem from various factors such as advancements in technology, changes in geopolitical dynamics, successful marketing strategies, or increased demand for Israeli defense products and expertise. Overall, the statistic portrays Israel as a rising player in the international arms trade during the specified time period.

References

0. – https://www.www.nationaldefensemagazine.org

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2. – https://www.www.theguardian.com

3. – https://www.time.com

4. – https://www.www.trtworld.com

5. – https://www.edition.cnn.com

6. – https://www.www.jpost.com

7. – https://www.www.wort.lu

8. – https://www.sipri.org

9. – https://www.www.cnbc.com

10. – https://www.www.bbc.com

11. – https://www.www.statista.com

12. – https://www.www.business-standard.com

13. – https://www.www.sipri.org

14. – https://www.www.aljazeera.com

15. – https://www.www.worldatlas.com

16. – https://www.www.france24.com

17. – https://www.www.defenceprocurementinternational.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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