Global Counter UAS Market Overview
Counter UAS Market Size was valued at USD 0.83 billion in 2022. The Counter UAS Market industry is projected to grow from USD 1.29 billion in 2024 to USD 7.51 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.7% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032).
Counter UAS systems are designed to detect, track, and neutralize unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones. These systems are necessary due to the increasing use of drones for various purposes, including commercial, recreational, and military applications. However, drones can also be used for malicious purposes, such as smuggling, espionage, and terrorist attacks.
Counter UAS systems typically use a combination of sensors, radar, cameras, and other technologies to detect and track drones. Once detected, these systems use various methods to neutralize the drone, such as jamming its communication signals, intercepting it with a net or drone catcher, or shooting it down with a laser or other weapon. As the use of drones grows, the development of Counter UAS systems has become a priority for many military and government organizations, as well as critical infrastructure facilities such as airports, power plants, and government buildings. The goal is to prevent unauthorized drones from entering sensitive areas and causing harm or disruption.
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Counter UAS Market Trends
Advancements in technology
The development of technology is driving innovation in the Counter UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) market, with new solutions being developed to detect, identify, and neutralize unauthorized drones. Advanced sensors, such as radar, acoustic, and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, are allowing for more effective detection and tracking of drones at longer ranges and in more challenging environments. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are also being used to develop more intelligent Counter UAS systems that can quickly identify and neutralize rogue drones. Cybersecurity is also being considered with the development of these systems, to prevent unauthorized access or control of drones.
Counter UAS systems are increasingly being integrated with other defense and security systems, such as radar, communication networks, and surveillance systems, to create a comprehensive defense strategy. The regulatory environment for these systems is also evolving rapidly, with new regulations being implemented to govern the use of drones in different industries and applications. This is driving the development of new Counter UAS technologies and solutions that can meet these changing regulatory requirements.
Counter UAS Market Segment Insights
Counter UAS Application Insights
The Counter UAS Market segmentation, based on Application, the Counter UAS Market has been segmented into (Detection {Radar, RF Scanners, EO/IR, Acoustic System, Combined Sensors}, Interdiction{ Jammers, Spoofing, Laser, Nets}). The detection segment is expected to grow in the forecast period. Counter UAS systems are being integrated with other defense and security systems, such as radar, communication networks, and surveillance systems, to create a comprehensive defense strategy. Cybersecurity measures are also being incorporated into the development of these systems to prevent unauthorized access or control of drones. Furthermore, the regulatory environment for Counter UAS systems is rapidly changing, with new regulations being implemented to govern the use of drones in various industries and applications. This is prompting the development of new Counter UAS technologies and solutions that can meet these evolving regulatory requirements. Counter unmanned aircraft systems (Counter UAS) employ various sensors, including radar, acoustic, and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, to detect and track drones. These sensors are capable of detecting drones at longer distances and in difficult environments, such as urban areas or adverse weather conditions. Additionally, AI and machine learning technologies are being utilized to create more advanced Counter UAS systems that can rapidly identify and neutralize unauthorized or rogue drones.
Figure 1: COUNTER UAS MARKET SHARE BY Application 2022 (%)
Counter UAS End Use Insights
Based on End Use, the Counter UAS Market has been segmented into Military and Defense
Commercial, Homeland Security. The military & defense segment accounted for the largest market share in 2022. Counter unmanned aircraft systems (Counter UAS) have become a key area of focus for military and defense sectors. These systems are specifically designed to safeguard military personnel, critical infrastructure, and other high-value assets from potential threats posed by drones. Military-grade Counter UAS systems typically incorporate a variety of sensors such as radar, radiofrequency (RF) detectors, and cameras to detect and track drones. They may also integrate more advanced technologies such as laser systems or electronic countermeasures to disable or neutralize unauthorized drones. Moreover, military and defense Counter UAS systems may be integrated into larger command and control systems, allowing for swift response and coordination in the event of a drone-related threat.
Counter UAS Technology Insights
Based on Technology, the Counter UAS Market has been segmented into Laser System, Kinetic System, Electronic System. The laser system segment accounted for the market share in 2022. Counter unmanned aircraft systems (Counter UAS) are increasingly incorporating laser systems as a means of neutralizing rogue drones. These systems utilize high-energy lasers to physically disable or destroy drones in mid-flight. Laser-based Counter UAS systems generally operate by tracking drones with sensors, such as radar or cameras, and then directing the laser beam towards the target. Upon contact with the drone, the laser beam can disrupt the drone's electronics or damage the drone itself, causing it to crash. Laser-based Counter UAS systems offer several benefits over other methods of drone neutralization, including silent operation for more covert missions and a lower likelihood of causing collateral damage compared to explosives. Nonetheless, ongoing research and development in this area aim to address these limitations and enhance the effectiveness of laser-based Counter UAS systems.
Counter UAS System Configuration Insights
Based on System Configuration, the Counter UAS Market has been segmented into Portable, Vehicle Mounted, Standalone. The portable segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. Counter unmanned aircraft systems (Counter UAS) that are portable in nature are designed for quick deployment to detect and neutralize unauthorized drones in the field. These systems generally comprise modular components that can be rapidly assembled and disassembled, making them highly adaptable and transportable for use in diverse operational environments. Portable Counter UAS systems may integrate various sensors, including radar, cameras, and radio-frequency (RF) detectors to identify and track drones. They may also integrate jamming or spoofing technologies to disrupt the drone's communications or GPS signals. Additionally, some portable systems may include handheld or shoulder-mounted laser systems to physically neutralize the drone. The compact and modular design of portable Counter UAS systems makes them well-suited for use in situations where conventional Counter UAS systems may not be practical, such as in remote or rugged terrain, or in situations that require rapid deployment. Therefore, portable Counter UAS systems are typically used in conjunction with larger, more comprehensive Counter UAS systems to provide a layered defense against rogue drones.
Counter UAS Platform Insights
Based on Platform, the Counter UAS Market has been segmented into Air, Ground, Naval. The air segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. The air component of Counter UAS systems involves the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to detect, track, and neutralize rogue drones. These UAVs can be remotely piloted or autonomous and may be equipped with a range of sensors, including radar, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, or other technologies, to locate and track drones. Once a rogue drone is detected, the Counter UAS UAV may use various methods to neutralize the threat, such as jamming or spoofing the drone's communication or GPS signals, physically intercepting the drone, or deploying a net or other physical means to capture the drone. The air component of Counter UAS systems offers several advantages, such as the ability to quickly deploy and respond to threats over a large area. However, air-based Counter UAS systems may be limited by factors such as weather conditions or airspace restrictions, and they may require specialized training and expertise to operate effectively.
Counter UAS Purpose Insights
Based on Purpose, the Counter UAS Market has been segmented into Base Protection, Complimenting Existing Weapons, Airport Airspace Protection, VIP Protection, and Counter-Smuggling Operations. The base protection segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. Base protection is a crucial component of the Counter UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) market. Unauthorized drones can pose a significant security risk to military bases, government buildings, and other critical infrastructure facilities. Base protection Counter UAS systems usually consist of a combination of sensors, radar, cameras, and other technologies to detect and track drones. These systems can then use various methods to neutralize the drone, such as jamming its communication signals, intercepting it with a net or drone catcher, or shooting it down with a laser or other weapon.
Counter UAS Regional Insights
North America accounted for the largest market share in 2022. North America leads in military expenditure and technological advancements and thus, has a very high demand for counter-UAS (C-UAS). Although Canada invests in the development of counter-UAS, the market is primarily dependent on the US. In FY2021, the Department of Defense (DOD) plans to spend approximately USD 404 million on counter-UAS research & development and approximately USD 83 million on C-UAS procurement. Moreover, the region accounted for the largest share in the market in 2020, primarily due to the presence of major manufacturers, such as the Boeing Company, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, and the Raytheon Company.
Europe accounted for the second largest market share in 2022. Europe has been at the forefront of Counter UAS technology development, with a number of countries investing in research and development of these systems. The European Union has also been actively involved in the development of regulations to govern the use of drones in Europe. The European Commission has released a number of guidelines on the use of drones, including the use of Counter UAS systems.
Figure 2: COUNTER UAS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (%)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Counter UAS Key Market Players & Competitive Insights
The counter-UAS market is characterized by the presence of many global, regional, and local vendors. The market is highly competitive, with all the players competing to gain the maximum market share. High competition, frequent changes in government policies, and aviation regulations are key factors that impact market growth. The vendors compete based on cost, product quality, reliability, and aftermarket services. The vendors must provide cost-efficient and high-quality counter-UAS systems and solutions for commercial and military applications to sustain their presence in an intensely competitive market environment.
Key Companies in the Counter UAS Market include.
- Northrop Grumman
- Boeing
- Lockheed Martin
- BAE Systems
- Raytheon
- Airbus
- Thales Group
- Israel Aerospace Industries
- Elbit Systems
- General Atomics
- Others
COUNTER UAS Industry Developments
February 2023: South Korea's top defense firm, Hanwha Aerospace, announced an investment in Fortem Technologies, a U.S. airspace security firm.
November 2022: Northrop Grumman’s short-range counter-drone command and control capability has completed a live-fire test for the US Army at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona.
Counter UAS Market Segmentation
Counter UAS Application Outlook
- Detection
- Radar
- RF Scanners
- EO/IR
- Acoustic System
- Combined Sensors
- Interdiction
- Jammers
- Spoofing
- Laser
- Nets
Counter UAS End Use Outlook
- Military & Defense
- Commercial
- Homeland Security
Counter UAS Technology Outlook
- Laser System
- Kinetic System
- Electronic System
Counter UAS System Configuration Outlook
- Portable
- Vehicle Mounted
- Standalone
Counter UAS Platform Outlook
Counter UAS Purpose Outlook
- Base Protection
- Complimenting Existing Weapons
- Airport Airspace Protection
- VIP Protection
- Counter-Smuggling Operations
- Others
Counter UAS Regional Outlook
- North America
- Europe
- Germany
- France
- UK
- Italy
- Spain
- Rest of Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- Australia
- South Korea
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- South America
| Report Attribute/Metric |
Details |
| Market Size 2022 |
USD 0.83 Billion |
| Market Size 2023 |
USD 1.29 Billion |
| Market Size 2032 |
USD 7.51 Billion |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) |
24.7% (2024-2032) |
| Base Year |
2022 |
| Forecast Period |
2024-2030 |
| Historical Data |
2018,2019, 2020, 2021 & 2022 |
| Forecast Units |
Value (USD million) |
| Report Coverage |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| Segments Covered |
Application, End Use, Technology, System Configuration, Platform, Purpose |
| Geographies Covered |
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World |
| Countries Covered |
The U.S, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil |
| Key Companies Profiled |
Northrop Grumman, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Raytheon, Airbus, Thales Group, Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, and General Atomics. |
| Key Market Opportunities |
Development of more advanced sensors and communication technologies that can detect and track drones at longer ranges and in more challenging environments. |
| Key Market Dynamics |
Security Threats Drive Increased Demand for Counter-UAS Technologies |
Counter UAS Market Highlights:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The Counter UAS Market is estimated at USD 826.4 Million.
The U.S Market is estimated at USD 330.8 million.
24.7% is the growth rate of Counter UAS market.
The North America region held the largest market share in the Counter UAS market.
Northrop Grumman, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Raytheon, Airbus, Thales Group, Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, and General Atomics are among the market's major players.
Laser system type led the Counter UAS market.
Detection had the largest market share in the Counter UAS market.
