Shoulder Fired Weapons Market Size, Share, Growth Analysis, By Assembly Type (Projectile, Launcher), By Technology (Guided, Unguided), By Range, By Application, By Region - Industry Forecast 2025-2032

Global Shoulder Fired Weapons Market size was valued at USD 7.21 billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 7.53 billion in 2024 to USD 10.71 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period (2025-2032).

The shoulder-fired weapons industry is experiencing robust growth, catalyzed by rising military expenditures across both developed and developing nations. There is a marked increase in demand for lightweight guided weapons, along with the growing adoption of man-portable anti-tank systems (MANPATS) and man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS). These systems offer military forces critical advantages, enabling effective target engagement without compromising on precision or weapon weight. Furthermore, the escalating deployment of advanced armored platforms in combat highlights the necessity for sophisticated shoulder-fired weaponry. The global preference for cost-effective shoulder-fired systems over traditional arms compounds this trend, emphasizing the sector's integral role in meeting the evolving demands and challenges faced in contemporary warfare environments.

Top-down and bottom-up approaches were used to estimate and validate the size of the Global Shoulder Fired Weapons market and to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets. The research methodology used to estimate the market size includes the following details: The key players in the market were identified through secondary research, and their market shares in the respective regions were determined through primary and secondary research. This entire procedure includes the study of the annual and financial reports of the top market players and extensive interviews for key insights from industry leaders such as CEOs, VPs, directors, and marketing executives. All percentage shares split, and breakdowns were determined using secondary sources and verified through Primary sources. All possible parameters that affect the markets covered in this research study have been accounted for, viewed in extensive detail, verified through primary research, and analyzed to get the final quantitative and qualitative data.

Global Shoulder Fired Weapons Market Segmental Analysis

Global Shoulder Fired Weapons Market is segmented by Assembly Type, Technology, Range, Application and region. Based on Assembly Type, the market is segmented into Projectile and Launcher. Based on Technology, the market is segmented into Guided and Unguided. Based on Range, the market is segmented into Short, Medium and Long. Based on Application, the market is segmented into Defense, Home Security and Others. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.

Driver of the Global Shoulder Fired Weapons Market

The Global Shoulder Fired Weapons market is primarily driven by the growing demand for man-portable anti-tank systems (MANPATS) and man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS). These systems provide military forces with substantial advantages, enabling them to engage targets with greater flexibility while alleviating concerns about accuracy and weapon weight. As modern conflicts increasingly feature sophisticated armored vehicles, countries are focusing on the integration and deployment of MANPATS and MANPADS to effectively mitigate these threats. Today's MANPADS are equipped with cutting-edge technology such as ultraviolet and infrared sensors, along with advanced control units, enhancing their precision and adaptability in various operational scenarios, thus strengthening military defense against aerial and ground threats.

Restraints in the Global Shoulder Fired Weapons Market

The Global Shoulder Fired Weapons market faces several constraints, primarily due to stringent regulatory and export controls that govern the trade and utilization of these weapons. National and international regulations aim to prevent the proliferation of shoulder-fired weapons, minimizing the risk of them being acquired by unauthorized individuals or groups. As manufacturers navigate these regulatory landscapes, their ability to access markets and achieve sales growth is often hampered by export limitations. Furthermore, compliance with various arms control treaties and agreements complicates the international trade of these conventional weapons, posing significant challenges for industry players in maintaining a viable presence in the market.

Market Trends of the Global Shoulder Fired Weapons Market

The Global Shoulder Fired Weapons market is witnessing a robust trend characterized by increased merger and acquisition (M&A) activities, particularly in North America, where numerous small and medium-sized vendors are competing for market share. These strategic consolidations allow companies to broaden their geographical reach and diversify offerings, enhancing overall competitiveness. A significant instance is the impending merger between Digital Solutions and Airtronics USA, which specializes in various shoulder-fired systems, including grenade and RPG launchers. This merger is anticipated to invest an additional US$550,000 into Airtronics, highlighting how M&A is a vital catalyst for growth within this dynamic marketplace.