Smart Weapons Market Worldwide Industry Analysis and Future Demand by 2028

The global smart weapons market was valued at $17.17 billion in 2020. It is expected to grow to $30.12 billion by 2028, reflecting an annual growth rate of 8.02% between 2021-2028. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a modest decline in demand for smart weapons globally during that time.

Informational Source:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/smart-weapons-market-104058

Key players in the smart weapons market include:

• BAE Systems (UK)
• Boeing (US)
• General Dynamics Corporation (US)
• Lockheed Martin Corporation (US)
• MBDA (France)
• Northrop Grumman Corporation (US)
• Raytheon Company, a Raytheon Technologies company (US)
• Rheinmetall AG (Germany)
• Textron Inc. (US)
• Thales Group (France)

Smart weapons have transformed modern warfare by integrating advanced technology with traditional systems for highly efficient defense and attack capabilities. As of 2024, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, robotics, and sensor technology are driving the development and deployment of these weapons.

1. Evolution of Smart Weapons Smart weapons, known as precision-guided munitions (PGMs), began during the Cold War with early examples like laser-guided bombs. Today, AI and machine learning allow these weapons to autonomously identify, track, and engage targets with high precision.

2. Key Technologies Driving Smart Weapons

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI enables real-time data processing and decision-making, allowing weapons to adapt to changing environments and optimize attack strategies.
• Sensor and Communication Technologies: Advanced sensors like infrared, radar, and LiDAR enhance situational awareness, while robust communication systems ensure effective operation in network-centric warfare.
• Robotics and Autonomous Systems: Drones and autonomous ground vehicles operate in hazardous environments, performing reconnaissance and precision strikes with minimal human intervention.

3. Current Applications of Smart Weapons

• Airborne Systems: Drones and smart missiles, like the MQ-9 Reaper, autonomously identify and engage targets using advanced sensors and AI.
• Ground Systems: Autonomous tanks and robotic soldiers use AI to navigate, identify threats, and execute combat tasks. The US Army’s Autonomous Ground Vehicle program is a key example.
• Naval Systems: Smart torpedoes and autonomous submarines use AI to detect and track enemy vessels. The US Navy’s Sea Hunter unmanned surface vessel showcases smart naval technology.

4. Ethical and Legal Considerations

• Autonomous Decision-Making and Accountability: Ensuring accountability for actions taken by autonomous systems is complex. International laws and military protocols must evolve to address these challenges.
• Unintended Casualties and Collateral Damage: Despite their precision, smart weapons can cause unintended casualties. Rigorous testing and ethical programming are essential to minimize these risks.
• Proliferation and Security Risks: The spread of smart weapons poses global security threats. International cooperation and strict export controls are needed to prevent misuse.

5. Future Prospects

• Enhanced AI Capabilities: Advances in AI, particularly deep learning, will enable more sophisticated decision-making and greater adaptability in combat.
• Quantum Computing: Quantum computing can provide the processing power needed for real-time data analysis, enhancing targeting and decision-making.
• Swarm Technology: Coordinating multiple autonomous units to operate as one entity can overwhelm enemy defenses and conduct complex missions.
• Cyber Warfare Integration: Smart weapons will incorporate cyber warfare capabilities to hack enemy systems and deploy electronic countermeasures.
• Human-Machine Teaming: Combining human strategic oversight with machine efficiency will enhance decision-making and operational effectiveness.