Active protection systems (APS) are self-protection systems for military vehicles and tanks that detect incoming rockets, missiles, or rockets, and autonomous counter them. APS uses sensors to detect incoming projectiles and launch countermeasures such as interceptor missiles, mini rockets, or mortar bombs to destroy the threat before impact. APS provides hard and soft kill abilities to combat anti-tank rockets, missiles, and kinetic energy penetrators. The global APS market is expected to witness significant demand from the defense sector owing to changing warfare strategies and rising threats from anti-tank guided missiles and rockets.
The Global Active Protection Systems Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 4.30 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 5.6% over the forecast period 2024 To 2031.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the active protection systems are Airbus SAS, Artis LLC, Aselsan AS, Israel Military Industries, KBM, Rafael Advanced Defense System Ltd., Raytheon Technologies Corporation, Rheinmetall AG, SAAB AB, Safran, IMI Systems, Krauss Maffei Wegmann, and General Dynamics.
The growing demand for armored vehicles from military forces worldwide is driving Active Protection Systems Market Size. Modern battlefields require military vehicles and tanks to be equipped with countermeasure systems for defense against rocket-propelled grenades and anti-tank guided missiles.
Technological advancements in sensors, interceptor missiles, and autonomous countermeasure systems have enhanced the detection and neutralization abilities of Active Protection Systems Market Size. New APS use spectral sensors, radars, and optical sensors for 360-degree threat detection. Interceptors utilize soft-kill and hard-kill methods for neutralizing projectiles depending on the threat type and size.
Market Trends
The active protection systems market is witnessing increased adoption of soft kill techniques such as signal jamming, radar decoys, and smoke screens as these methods neutralize threats without the need for physical interceptors. Such methods prove to be cost-effective and reusable compared to hard kill techniques.
Modular and upgradeable active protection system designs are gaining traction as these allow bolt-on capabilities and upgradation of technologies. Modular APS provide flexibility to install additional sensors, countermeasures based on evolving threats.
Market Opportunities
Growing demand for retrofitting legacy military vehicles with active protection capabilities can present significant opportunities for APS manufacturers. Many countries are looking to modernize their aging fleet of tanks and armored vehicles.
Development of active protection systems for marine vessels and aircraft provides new growth potential. Current research and testing aim to deploy APS for naval ships, utility helicopters against anti-ship missiles and man-portable air defense systems.
Impact of COVID-19 on Active Protection Systems Market
The global pandemic situation created due to COVID-19 has impacted the growth of the active protection systems market. During the initial lockdown phases in 2020, production facilities were shut down which disrupted the supply chain of components and led to delays in new system deliveries. This led to a decline in the revenues of key players in the short term.
However, post lockdowns governments around the world increased their defense modernization budgets to boost their military capabilities. This resulted in new procurement contracts for active protection systems to equip battle tanks and combat vehicles for future readiness. The demand from militaries also increased due to extended border disputes and territorial conflicts during the pandemic.
Original equipment manufacturers are focusing on overcoming component shortage issues through supplier collaboration and localized production where possible. This will help them minimize future disruptions. Interactive and virtual training programs are being used to ensure personnel are adequately skilled to operate these complex systems during the ongoing situations.
North America and Europe
In terms of value, North America currently holds the largest share of the global active protection systems market led by ongoing modernization programs of the U.S. armed forces. Major development and testing activities are also carried out in the region.
Europe is another major regional market given the defense priorities of NATO countries. Countries like Germany, France and the UK are procuring these systems to supplement infantry fighting vehicles and main battle tanks. Both these regions will continue major spending to gain technological edge over adversaries.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific region is poised to be the fastest growing market for active protection systems during the forecast period. This is attributed to rising defense budgets of China and India for army modernization. Homegrown development programs are underway to design indigenous solutions. Other nations are also making significant procurements to strengthen their land warfare and border security capabilities.
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