GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Global Defense Industry Statistics

The global defense industry statistics provide valuable insights into the size, growth, and major players in the sector, as well as trends and challenges facing the industry.

Highlights: Global Defense Industry Statistics

  • Global defense spending rose by 1.9% to $1.92 trillion in 2019.
  • U.S. military spending, $732 billion in 2019, is higher than the next 10 defense budgets combined.
  • China's defense budget was $261 billion in 2019 making it the second largest in the world.
  • The Global Defense Industry was valued at about $438.9 billion in 2020.
  • France spent 1.9% of its GDP on defense in 2019, higher than the European average of 1.4%.
  • In 2018, 42.2% of global arms exports originated from the United States.
  • The total revenue of the European defense market was around $200 billion in 2019.
  • The global arms industry was worth $420 billion in 2018.
  • In 2017, Saudi Arabia was the world's largest importer of defense equipment, accounting for 12% of global imports.
  • About 60% of the global defense industry's total revenue is accounted for by 10 companies.
  • Asia and Oceania increased their military spending by 5.5% in 2019, to $507 billion.
  • The defense market in the Middle East was valued at around $100 billion in 2018.
  • The international market for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), often used by the military, is predicted to reach a value of $22.5 billion by 2026.
  • Global defense shipbuilding market size is expected to be valued at $57.82 billion in 2026.
  • Cyber defense market size is projected to be valued at $170.3 billion in 2026.
  • 59% of Americans believe the U.S. spends too little or about the right amount on defense.
  • The global advanced combat helmet market size is expected to reach $3.64 billion by 2028.
  • The global soldier systems market is estimated to be valued at $9.78 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $11.23 billion by 2025.

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The Latest Global Defense Industry Statistics Explained

Global defense spending rose by 1.9% to $1.92 trillion in 2019.

The statistic indicates that global defense spending increased by 1.9% in 2019, reaching a total of $1.92 trillion. This growth can be attributed to various factors such as geopolitical tensions, modernization efforts, and increasing security threats around the world. The rise in defense spending suggests that countries are allocating more resources towards military capacity and readiness in order to address these challenges and protect their national security interests. It also reflects the continued significance of defense as a priority for governments globally, highlighting the ongoing importance placed on maintaining strong defense capabilities in an increasingly uncertain international environment.

U.S. military spending, $732 billion in 2019, is higher than the next 10 defense budgets combined.

The statistic indicates that the United States allocated $732 billion towards military spending in 2019, a figure that surpasses the combined defense budgets of the next ten countries with the highest military expenditures. This illustrates the significant prioritization of defense funding within the U.S. budget compared to other major military powers around the world. Such a substantial investment in military capabilities reflects the nation’s commitment to maintaining military superiority and readiness, and also underscores the size and influence of the U.S. military on the global stage. This comparison highlights the immense scale of military expenditures in the United States relative to other nations, emphasizing its leading role in defense spending worldwide.

China’s defense budget was $261 billion in 2019 making it the second largest in the world.

The statistic indicates that China allocated $261 billion towards its defense budget in the year 2019, positioning it as the second largest defense spender globally. This substantial budget allocation reflects China’s significant investments in military capabilities, reflecting its strategic priorities and growing influence on the world stage. The size of China’s defense budget, behind only the United States in absolute terms, underscores its commitment to strengthening and modernizing its armed forces, potentially impacting regional and global security dynamics. Understanding and continuously monitoring such defense budget trends is critical for assessing the evolving military capabilities and strategic intentions of countries like China in the international arena.

The Global Defense Industry was valued at about $438.9 billion in 2020.

The statistic stating that the Global Defense Industry was valued at about $438.9 billion in 2020 indicates the total economic worth of the defense sector worldwide for that year. This figure encompasses the overall financial value of goods and services produced within the defense industry, including expenditures on military equipment, technology, personnel, and related services. The size of the defense industry is crucial for understanding its significance within the global economy, as well as for evaluating trends in military spending and investment in defense capabilities on an international scale. The substantial value of $438.9 billion underscores the considerable resources allocated to defense-related activities and highlights the industry’s substantial economic impact around the world.

France spent 1.9% of its GDP on defense in 2019, higher than the European average of 1.4%.

The statistic indicates that in 2019, France allocated a larger proportion of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) towards defense spending compared to the average percentage spent by European countries. With France spending 1.9% of its GDP on defense, it indicates a relatively higher level of investment in military capabilities and security infrastructure. This suggests that France places a significant emphasis on defense and security measures within its national budget, potentially reflecting its strategic priorities, international commitments, and perceived security threats. The fact that France’s defense spending exceeds the European average of 1.4% underscores its relatively stronger focus on defense relative to many of its European counterparts.

In 2018, 42.2% of global arms exports originated from the United States.

The statistic indicates that in 2018, a significant portion of the world’s arms exports, specifically 42.2%, were supplied by the United States. This means that the U.S. played a dominant role in the global arms trade during that year, outpacing other countries in terms of exporting weaponry and military equipment to various nations. This high percentage suggests that the U.S. holds a strong position in the international arms market and has considerable influence in the global defense industry. The statistic also highlights the economic and geopolitical significance of the U.S. in the context of international arms sales and trade relations.

The total revenue of the European defense market was around $200 billion in 2019.

The statistic indicating that the total revenue of the European defense market was approximately $200 billion in 2019 offers insight into the economic scale and significance of the defense industry within Europe during that particular year. This metric reflects the substantial financial transactions and investments taking place in the defense sector, encompassing defense-related goods and services. The revenue figure serves as a valuable indicator of the size and impact of the defense market in Europe, highlighting its role as a key economic player and emphasizing the level of resources channeled into defense-related activities. It also underscores the potential for economic growth and job creation within the defense industry, as well as the importance of defense-related policies and strategies in shaping regional and global security dynamics.

The global arms industry was worth $420 billion in 2018.

The statistic that the global arms industry was worth $420 billion in 2018 represents the total value of weapons, military equipment, and services produced and sold by companies involved in the manufacturing and trade of arms around the world during that year. This figure showcases the significant economic impact and scale of the arms industry, highlighting the substantial financial investments and transactions related to military defense and security. The statistic also underscores the extensive market demand for weaponry and defense systems, reflecting the ongoing global concerns and expenditures related to national security and armed conflicts.

In 2017, Saudi Arabia was the world’s largest importer of defense equipment, accounting for 12% of global imports.

The statistic indicates that in 2017, Saudi Arabia held the position of being the largest importer of defense equipment globally, accounting for 12% of all defense imports worldwide. This suggests that Saudi Arabia heavily relies on imported defense equipment to meet its military needs. The significant share of the global market held by Saudi Arabia highlights the country’s substantial investments in defense and security measures, possibly driven by regional security concerns and geopolitical factors. The statistic sheds light on Saudi Arabia’s position as a major player in the global arms trade and underscores the country’s strategic importance in the defense industry.

About 60% of the global defense industry’s total revenue is accounted for by 10 companies.

The statistic “about 60% of the global defense industry’s total revenue is accounted for by 10 companies” suggests a high level of concentration in the defense industry, with a significant portion of its revenue being generated by a relatively small number of companies. This indicates that the industry is dominated by a select few major players who wield significant market influence and likely have substantial market power. The concentration of revenue among a limited number of companies may have implications for competition, market dynamics, and potentially even geopolitical considerations, given the strategic nature of the defense industry. Understanding the implications of this level of concentration is crucial for assessing competition, market dynamics, and overall industry performance.

Asia and Oceania increased their military spending by 5.5% in 2019, to $507 billion.

The statistic states that countries in Asia and Oceania collectively increased their military spending by 5.5% in 2019, reaching a total of $507 billion. This indicates a significant rise in military expenditures within the region compared to the previous year, suggesting a potential increase in defense capabilities and investments in security. Such an increase may stem from various factors, including geopolitical tensions, modernization efforts, or a desire to assert military power in the region. The rise in military spending could impact regional security dynamics and potentially lead to a military arms race among countries in Asia and Oceania.

The defense market in the Middle East was valued at around $100 billion in 2018.

The statistic stating that the defense market in the Middle East was valued at around $100 billion in 2018 provides a quantitative measure of the total economic value of defense-related activities in the region during that year. This figure encompasses expenditures on a variety of defense-related products and services including military equipment, technology, personnel, and infrastructure. It serves as an important indicator of the scale and significance of the defense industry in the Middle East, reflecting the region’s military capabilities, strategic interests, and geopolitical priorities. Analyzing trends in defense market values over time can offer insights into changes in defense spending, procurement patterns, and regional security dynamics, aiding policymakers, businesses, and analysts in understanding the evolving defense landscape of the Middle East.

The international market for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), often used by the military, is predicted to reach a value of $22.5 billion by 2026.

The statistic indicates that the global market for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly utilized in military applications, is projected to significantly grow and reach a value of $22.5 billion by the year 2026. This prediction suggests a substantial increase in demand for UAVs over the coming years, likely fueled by advancements in technology, the expanding scope of applications for UAVs beyond the military sector, and the growing recognition of the operational advantages they offer. The rising value of the international UAV market underscores the increasing importance of these technologies in various sectors and highlights the significant economic opportunities associated with their development and deployment.

Global defense shipbuilding market size is expected to be valued at $57.82 billion in 2026.

The statistic states that the global defense shipbuilding market is projected to reach a value of $57.82 billion by the year 2026. This suggests a significant growth in the market size, reflecting an anticipated increase in demand for defense-related ships and naval vessels over the forecast period. Factors such as geopolitical tensions, modernization of naval fleets, and government investments in defense infrastructure are likely drivers of this growth. The statistic serves as an important indicator for stakeholders in the defense shipbuilding industry, providing insights into future market trends and opportunities for strategic planning and decision-making.

Cyber defense market size is projected to be valued at $170.3 billion in 2026.

The statistic indicates that the cyber defense market is expected to reach a total value of $170.3 billion in the year 2026. This figure represents the anticipated market size, which encompasses the total spending on cybersecurity products and services globally during that particular year. It signifies the growing importance of cybersecurity as organizations increasingly recognize the need to safeguard their digital assets from cyber threats such as data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other malicious activities. The projected market size points towards a continued investment in cyber defense measures to protect sensitive information and systems, reflecting the ongoing emphasis on cybersecurity as a critical aspect of modern business operations and digital infrastructure.

59% of Americans believe the U.S. spends too little or about the right amount on defense.

The statistic suggests that a majority of Americans, specifically 59%, feel that the United States is not dedicating enough resources to defense spending or that the current level of spending is appropriate. This sentiment could stem from various factors such as perceived national security threats, geopolitical tensions, or a desire for increased military strength. The statistic implies that a significant portion of the population prioritizes defense expenditure and values investment in maintaining robust defense capabilities. This finding may have implications for policy decisions regarding defense budget allocations and national security strategies.

The global advanced combat helmet market size is expected to reach $3.64 billion by 2028.

The statistic indicates that the global advanced combat helmet market is projected to grow significantly, with a forecasted market size of $3.64 billion by 2028. This suggests a substantial increase in demand for advanced combat helmets, likely driven by factors such as increasing focus on soldier safety and technological advancements in the defense industry. The expected growth in market size signifies a lucrative opportunity for manufacturers and suppliers operating in the advanced combat helmet industry, as they may benefit from the rising demand for these specialized products and the potential for enhanced profitability in the coming years.

The global soldier systems market is estimated to be valued at $9.78 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $11.23 billion by 2025.

This statistic indicates that the global soldier systems market, which includes equipment, gear, and technologies designed to enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of soldiers in the field, is experiencing steady growth. The estimated value of $9.78 billion in 2021 is expected to increase to $11.23 billion by 2025, reflecting a compound annual growth rate over the period. This growth can be attributed to various factors such as technological advancements in soldier systems, increasing defense budgets in several countries, and the evolving nature of modern warfare, which emphasizes the importance of equipping soldiers with advanced and efficient gear. This trend suggests a rising demand for soldier systems globally and presents opportunities for companies operating in this market to innovate and expand their offerings to meet the evolving needs of military forces.

Conclusion

Given the comprehensive analysis of global defense industry statistics presented in this blog post, it is evident that the sector plays a crucial role in national security and economic development worldwide. The trends and insights highlighted underscore the importance of continued monitoring and strategic planning within the defense industry to address evolving challenges and opportunities. By staying informed and proactive, stakeholders can navigate the complexities of this dynamic sector effectively and contribute to enhancing global security and stability.

References

0. – https://www.www.sipri.org

1. – https://www.www.globenewswire.com

2. – https://www.www.statista.com

3. – https://www.www.prnewswire.com

4. – https://www.www.janes.com

5. – https://www.www.europarl.europa.eu

6. – https://www.www.mckinsey.com

7. – https://www.www.pewresearch.org

8. – https://www.www.defense.gouv.fr

9. – https://www.www.pgpf.org

10. – https://www.www.bbc.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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