PUBLISHER: DataM Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1712527
PUBLISHER: DataM Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1712527
Global defense cybersecurity market reached US$ 37.23 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 66.89 billion by 2032, growing with a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period 2025-2032.
The global defense cybersecurity market is experiencing significant growth due to the escalating frequency and sophistication of cyber threats targeting national defense infrastructure, military networks, and critical communication systems. Governments and defense agencies worldwide are increasingly prioritizing cybersecurity to safeguard sensitive data, ensure secure communications, and maintain operational readiness.
The rise in cyber espionage, state-sponsored attacks, and ransomware targeting defense systems has accelerated investments in advanced cybersecurity technologies such as AI-powered threat detection, zero-trust architectures, and blockchain-based security protocols. Key players in the industry are focusing on strategic collaborations, acquisitions, and R&D initiatives to enhance threat intelligence and develop next-generation defense cybersecurity solutions.
Market Trends
The expanding Internet of Things (IoT) creates more opportunities for cybercrime. The Internet of Things refers to physical devices other than computers, phones, and servers, which connect to the internet and share data. Examples of IoT devices include wearable fitness trackers, smart refrigerators, smartwatches, and voice assistants like Amazon Echo and Google Home. It is estimated that by 2026, there will be 64 billion IoT devices installed around the world. The trend toward remote working is helping to drive this increase.
Social engineering attacks like phishing are not new threats but have become more troubling amid the widespread remote workforce. Attackers target individuals connecting to their employer's network from home because they make easier targets. As well as traditional phishing attacks on employees, there has also been an uptick in whaling attacks targeting executive organizational leadership.
Dynamics
Increased Defense Budgets Focused on Cybersecurity
Countries are significantly increasing their defense spending, with a larger portion allocated toward cybersecurity initiatives. For instance, in 2025, Defence spending in Australia is growing, with the government committing an increasing proportion of GDP to military expenditure. The Albanese government has already brought forward A$1 billion from the 2025 defence budget, while pressure from foreign allies, notably the US, is driving up calls for greater spending.
Additionally, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the US military fiscal year 2025 dedicates approximately US$30 billion to cybersecurity, marking it as a crucial focus in the broader US$895.2 billion military budget. Moreover, Cybersecurity Ventures expects global cybercrime costs to grow by 15 percent per year over the next five years, reaching US$10.5 trillion annually by 2025, up from US$3 trillion in 2015. Thus, above factors helps to boost the market growth.
High Implementation and Maintenance Costs
High Implementation and Maintenance Costs significantly restrain the growth of the global defense cybersecurity market by creating financial and logistical barriers, especially for developing nations and smaller defense organizations. Establishing a robust cybersecurity infrastructure for defense requires substantial investment in advanced technologies such as secure communication networks, quantum-safe encryption, and multi-layered firewalls-all of which come at a premium cost.
The high-cost factor not only limits the initial adoption of cybersecurity systems but also restricts scalability, continuous improvement, and widespread deployment, particularly in remote bases or across vast military networks.
The global defense cybersecurity market is segmented based on component, technology, deployment mode, security type, application and region.
Strategic Preference for On-Premises Deployment Strengthens Defense Cybersecurity Market Growth
The On-Premises segment drives growth in the global defense cybersecurity market primarily due to the defense sector's high sensitivity to data privacy, control, and regulatory compliance. Defense organizations across the globe prefer on-premises deployment because it allows them to retain full control over their cybersecurity infrastructure and sensitive data, minimizing the risk of external breaches or unauthorized access.
For instance, the US Department of Defense (DoD) relies heavily on on-premises systems for classified networks such as SIPRNet and JWICS, ensuring that critical intelligence and communication channels remain isolated from public or cloud-based environments. Thus, the combination of enhanced control, compliance, and reduced external exposure is making on-premises deployment a preferred and growing segment in the defense cybersecurity space.
North America Leads Defense Cybersecurity Market with Superior Spending and Technological Edge
North America dominates the global defense cybersecurity market due to its unparalleled defense expenditure, technological superiority, and strong focus on cybersecurity preparedness. The US, which accounts for the largest share of global military spending, allocates a significant portion of its defense budget to cybersecurity initiatives through departments such as the Department of Defense (DoD), Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM), and the National Security Agency (NSA).
These agencies are at the forefront of developing and deploying advanced cyber defense technologies, including AI-based threat detection, zero-trust architecture, and quantum-resistant encryption. For example, the US DoD's annual cybersecurity budget exceeds US$10 billion, reflecting its strategic emphasis on digital defense infrastructure. This combination of financial muscle, policy support, and technological capability positions North America as the most advanced and influential region in the defense cybersecurity landscape.
Sustainability Analysis
Sustainability in the global defense cybersecurity market hinges on long-term investment, technological innovation, workforce development, and adaptive policy frameworks. As cyber threats become more complex and persistent, defense agencies are recognizing cybersecurity not as a one-time investment but as a continuous strategic imperative.
Sustainable growth in this market is supported by the integration of energy-efficient data centers, green IT infrastructure, and AI-driven systems that optimize resource utilization while enhancing threat detection capabilities. Governments are also emphasizing capacity-building and education programs to address the talent gap, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled cyber professionals.
The major global players in the market include Raytheon Technologies Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, BAE Systems plc, Leonardo S.p.A., Airbus S.A.S., General Dynamics Corporation, Palantir Technologies Inc., Northrop Grumman Corporation, L3Harris Technologies Inc., Thales Group and among others.
Target Audience 2024
LIST NOT EXHAUSTIVE