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Report
Infrared Search and Track (IRST) System Market Opportunity, Growth Drivers, Industry Trend Analysis, and Forecast 2025 - 2034
Market Report I 2025-04-30 I 170 Pages I Global Market Insights
The Global Infrared Search & Track System Market was valued at USD 6.5 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% to reach USD 11.8 billion by 2034. The increasing need for advanced passive surveillance systems is one of the key elements fueling this expansion. Unlike traditional radar-based systems, IRST systems enable stealthy detection and monitoring of aerial and maritime threats without actively emitting signals, making them an essential tool for next-generation defense platforms. With the rising significance of unmanned and remotely piloted platforms across various defense operations, the adoption of IRST technology is expanding rapidly. Integration of these systems into both aerial and naval vehicles is transforming modern surveillance strategies and is expected to remain a key driver of market momentum in the coming years.
Trade policies from previous administrations, particularly the tariffs imposed during the Trump era, have introduced cost pressures across the defense and aerospace sectors. These added expenses have not only increased the prices of critical components and materials but have also disrupted the manufacturing ecosystem. As a result, IRST system manufacturers are reevaluating their procurement and supply chain models, seeking more cost-effective and reliable sourcing channels. The broader environment of global trade uncertainty has made some investors hesitant to commit to large-scale IRST initiatives, creating a ripple effect that temporarily slows innovation and deployment timelines in certain segments.
The market is categorized by platform into airborne, naval, land, and others. In 2024, the airborne segment led the market with a 42.1% share and is projected to maintain its lead throughout the forecast period. The dominance of airborne IRST systems stems from the increasing global focus on enhancing aerial combat readiness and operational superiority. As new threats evolve, traditional radar systems are facing growing limitations, particularly against stealth technologies. The need for silent tracking, long-range detection, and precise target acquisition is prompting defense agencies to equip advanced aircraft with state-of-the-art IRST solutions.
When analyzed by end-user, the market is divided into military & defense and civil & commercial applications. The civil & commercial segment is expected to attain a market value of USD 4.2 billion by 2034. As threats to critical infrastructure and public safety grow, demand is rising for passive tracking solutions in civilian sectors. Airports and other transportation hubs are increasingly exploring IRST technologies to detect unauthorized flying objects and enhance airspace security. At the same time, industries involved in maritime operations are adopting these systems to monitor high-risk regions discreetly, leveraging passive detection capabilities that can provide early warnings without drawing attention.
Geographically, the United States holds a significant position in the North America IRST market and is forecast to achieve a market size of USD 4.3 billion by 2034. The country's focus on strategic defense development and maintaining global superiority has pushed demand for advanced surveillance systems, especially passive infrared tracking solutions. In response to advancements in stealth technologies by competing nations, the U.S. is prioritizing investment in IRST systems across both manned and unmanned defense platforms. The push to integrate these technologies into new-generation air combat programs is further strengthening the domestic market outlook.
The IRST system market is notably competitive, with a mix of established defense contractors and emerging technology firms contributing to innovation. The top five market leaders-holding between 65% to 70% of the total share-are leveraging deep expertise in infrared optics, detection algorithms, and systems integration. These key players are driving next-generation developments that enhance target acquisition, tracking accuracy, and situational awareness. To stay ahead, many companies are forming strategic partnerships within the defense supply chain, pooling resources to accelerate the development and deployment of advanced IRST capabilities.
Report Content
Chapter 1 Methodology and Scope
1.1 Market scope and definitions
1.2 Research design
1.2.1 Research Approach
1.2.2 Data collection methods
1.3 Base estimates and calculations
1.3.1 Base year calculation
1.3.2 Key trends for market estimation
1.4 Forecast model
1.5 Primary research and validation
1.5.1 Primary sources
1.5.2 Data mining sources
Chapter 2 Executive Summary
2.1 Industry 360 synopsis
Chapter 3 Industry Insights
3.1 Industry ecosystem analysis
3.2 Trump administration tariffs analysis
3.2.1 Impact on trade
3.2.1.1 Trade volume disruptions
3.2.1.2 Retaliatory measures
3.2.2 Impact on the industry
3.2.2.1 Supply-side impact (key components)
3.2.2.1.1 Price volatility in key materials
3.2.2.1.2 Supply chain restructuring
3.2.2.1.3 Production cost implications
3.2.2.2 Demand-side impact (selling price)
3.2.2.2.1 Price transmission to end markets
3.2.2.2.2 Market share dynamics
3.2.2.2.3 Consumer response patterns
3.2.3 Key companies impacted
3.2.4 Strategic industry responses
3.2.4.1 Supply chain reconfiguration
3.2.4.2 Pricing and product strategies
3.2.4.3 Policy engagement
3.2.5 Outlook and future considerations
3.3 Industry impact forces
3.3.1 Growth drivers
3.3.1.1 Rising demand for passive surveillance systems to counter stealth threats
3.3.1.2 Increasing investments in next-generation fighter aircraft and naval modernization programs
3.3.1.3 Rapid advancements in infrared sensor technology and AI-driven tracking capabilities
3.3.1.4 Growing adoption of IRST systems across unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and naval vessels
3.3.1.5 Expansion of defense budgets globally amid heightened geopolitical tensions
3.3.2 Industry pitfalls and challenges
3.3.2.1 High development and integration costs associated with advanced IRST systems
3.3.2.2 Technical challenges in ensuring accuracy across diverse weather and cluttered environments
3.3.2.3 High development and certification costs
3.4 Growth potential analysis
3.5 Regulatory landscape
3.6 Technology landscape
3.7 Future market trends
3.8 Gap analysis
3.9 Porter's analysis
3.10 PESTEL analysis
Chapter 4 Competitive Landscape, 2024
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Company market share analysis
4.3 Competitive analysis of major market players
4.4 Competitive positioning matrix
4.5 Strategy dashboard
Chapter 5 Market Estimates and Forecast, By Platform, 2021 - 2034 ($ Mn)
5.1 Key trends
5.2 Airborne
5.2.1 Military aircraft
5.2.1.1 Trainer aircraft
5.2.1.2 Combat aircraft
5.2.1.3 Special mission aircraft
5.2.2 Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)
5.3 Naval
5.3.1 Offshore patrol vessel (OPV)
5.3.2 Destroyers
5.3.3 Frigates
5.3.4 Amphibious warships
5.3.5 Corvettes
5.3.6 Fast attack craft (FAC)
5.3.7 Cruisers
5.3.8 Aircraft carriers
5.4 Land
5.5 Others
Chapter 6 Market Estimates and Forecast, By End Use, 2021 - 2034 ($ Mn)
6.1 Key trends
6.2 Civil & commercial
6.3 Military & defense
Chapter 7 Market Estimates and Forecast, By Region, 2021 - 2034 ($ Mn)
7.1 Key trends
7.2 North America
7.2.1 U.S.
7.2.2 Canada
7.3 Europe
7.3.1 Germany
7.3.2 UK
7.3.3 France
7.3.4 Spain
7.3.5 Italy
7.3.6 Netherlands
7.4 Asia Pacific
7.4.1 China
7.4.2 India
7.4.3 Australia
7.4.4 South Korea
7.4.5 Japan
7.5 Latin America
7.5.1 Brazil
7.5.2 Mexico
7.5.3 Argentina
7.6 Middle East and Africa
7.6.1 Saudi Arabia
7.6.2 U.A.E.
7.6.3 South Africa
Chapter 8 Company Profiles
8.1 Aselsan A.S.
8.2 Grupo Oesia
8.3 Hanwha Systems Co., Ltd.
8.4 HGH Systemes Infrarouges
8.5 Leonardo S.P.A.
8.6 Lockheed Martin Corporation
8.7 Northrop Grumman Corporation
8.8 Rheinmetall AG
8.9 Safran S.A.
8.10 Thales Group
8.11 Tonbo Imaging Private Limited
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