Remote Weapon Station Market
By Platform;
Land [Ground Station, Main Battle Tanks, Armored Fighting Vehicles and Others], Naval [Destroyers, Frigates, Corvettes, Patrol & Mine Countermeasures Vessels, Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), Amphibious Vessels and Unmanned Surface Vehicles] and Airborne [Fighter Aircraft, Attack Helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles]By Application;
Military and Homeland SecurityBy Component;
Human Machine Interface, Stabilization Unit, Control System, Sensors [Day Imaging Systems, Thermal Imagers, Rangefinders, Laser Designator and Laser Marker] and Weapons & Armaments [Guns, Launchers and Directed Energy Weapons]By Weapon Type;
Lethal Weapons [Small Caliber and Medium Caliber ] and Non-Lethal WeaponsBy Technology;
Close-In Weapon Systems and Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS)By Mobility;
Stationary and MovingBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Remote Weapon Station Market Overview
Remote Weapon Station Market (USD Million)
Remote Weapon Station Market was valued at USD 12,358.96 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 25,984.55 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.2%.
Remote Weapon Station Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 11.2 %
Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
---|---|
Base Year | 2024 |
CAGR (%) | 11.2 % |
Market Size (2024) | USD 12,358.96 Million |
Market Size (2031) | USD 25,984.55 Million |
Market Concentration | Low |
Report Pages | 344 |
Major Players
- Kongsberg Gruppen
- Raytheon Company
- Saab AB
- Leonardo S.p.A
- Electro Optic Systems
- BAE Systems
- Rheinmetall AG
- ASELSAN
- FN Herstal
- Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Remote Weapon Station Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Remote Weapon Station Market is witnessing consistent expansion as defense agencies focus on modernizing combat operations and ensuring operator safety. Currently, more than 54% of armored platforms are equipped with remote systems to minimize exposure in high-risk environments. This demonstrates the growing importance of automation and precision engagement in defense strategies.
Adoption Supported by Operational Efficiency
Demand is accelerating due to the clear benefits of operational efficiency. Nearly 46% of new defense vehicles are equipped with remote weapon stations, enabling operators to remain protected inside while maintaining full combat capability. This balance of survivability and combat performance highlights the strategic role of these systems in force readiness.
Integration of Advanced Targeting Technologies
Innovation is reshaping the remote weapon station landscape with enhanced targeting and control systems. Approximately 58% of modern installations include thermal sights, AI-driven tracking, and laser range finders for superior accuracy. In addition, about 36% of deployments utilize real-time data networks to support faster, coordinated battlefield responses.
Enhancing Safety and Combat Effectiveness
The focus on crew protection continues to accelerate adoption. More than 50% of armed forces using these systems report increased operator safety and higher mission effectiveness. With a 42% rise in automation features such as auto-tracking and remote-controlled firing, remote weapon stations are redefining combat efficiency and resilience.
Remote Weapon Station Market Recent Developments
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In September 2022, Elbit Systems secured a contract worth USD 80 million to supply unmanned turrets for Armoured Fighting Vehicles to an Asia-Pacific nation. The contract spans a duration of three years. Under the agreement, Elbit Systems will deliver 30mm-gun unmanned light turrets that integrate advanced sensors and display systems, enhancing situational awareness, target acquisition capabilities, and fire control systems. The integration of these turrets will enable significant upgrades in mission performance for the Armoured Fighting Vehicles, empowering them with enhanced weapon systems and operational capabilities.
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In October 2020, ASELSAN entered into a new sales agreement with the Indonesian Navy, marking a significant milestone in Indonesia's naval defense capabilities. As part of the contract, ASELSAN will supply the 30mm SMASH Remote Controlled Stabilized Gun System to the Indonesian Navy. This state-of-the-art gun system offers advanced remote control and stabilization features, enhancing the naval platform's firepower, accuracy, and operational effectiveness. The collaboration between ASELSAN and the Indonesian Navy underscores the growing importance of modernizing naval assets and strengthening maritime security in the region.
Segment Analysis
This report extensively covers different segments of Global Remote Weapon Station Market and provides an in depth analysis (including revenue analysis for both historic and forecast periods) for all the market segments. In this report, the analysis for every market segment is substantiated with relevant data points and, insights that are generated from analysis of these data points (data trends and patterns).
In terms of components, the market can be segmented into several key elements, including sensors, weapon systems, fire control systems, stabilization systems, and control interfaces. These components collectively form the foundation of Remote Weapon Stations, enabling operators to remotely control and engage targets with precision firepower while maintaining a protected position.
Regarding technology, RWS platforms encompass a range of advanced technologies such as electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, laser rangefinders, ballistic calculators, and networked communication systems. These technologies enhance the accuracy, range, and lethality of RWS platforms, enabling operators to detect, track, and engage targets effectively in various operational scenarios.
In terms of platform, Remote Weapon Stations can be integrated onto a diverse range of military vehicles, naval vessels, and static installations. Common platforms include armored vehicles, infantry fighting vehicles, main battle tanks, naval ships, and fixed installations, each tailored to specific mission requirements and operational environments.
Moreover, the mobility capabilities of Remote Weapon Stations vary depending on the platform they are integrated into. Some RWS platforms are designed for tracked or wheeled vehicles, offering high levels of mobility and maneuverability on land. Others are optimized for naval vessels, providing stabilization and recoil management capabilities to withstand the challenges of maritime environments.
Geographically, the global Remote Weapon Station market spans regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Each region exhibits unique market dynamics, driven by factors such as defense spending, geopolitical tensions, military modernization initiatives, and technological advancements.
Global Remote Weapon Station Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Remote Weapon Station Market has been segmented by Component, Technology, Platform, Mobility and Geography.
Global Remote Weapon Station Market, Segmentation by Component
The Global Remote Weapon Station Market has been segmented by Component into Human Machine Interface, Stabilization Unit, Control System and Weapons & Armaments.
The HMI component serves as the interface between the operator and the Remote Weapon Station, facilitating intuitive and efficient control of the system. It encompasses user-friendly displays, touchscreens, joysticks, and control panels that enable operators to navigate through menus, access system status information, and engage targets with precision. The HMI component plays a crucial role in enhancing situational awareness, target acquisition, and mission effectiveness by providing operators with real-time feedback and operational data.
The stabilization unit is a critical component of Remote Weapon Stations, responsible for stabilizing the weapon platform and maintaining accuracy during firing sequences. It utilizes advanced gyroscopic and inertial stabilization technologies to counteract vibrations, recoil forces, and vehicle motion, ensuring that the weapon remains steady and on target, even in dynamic or adverse conditions. The stabilization unit enhances the lethality and effectiveness of the weapon system by minimizing dispersion and maximizing hit probability, particularly during high-speed maneuvers or engagements on the move.
The control system component of Remote Weapon Stations encompasses the electronic and software systems that manage and coordinate the operation of the entire system. It includes fire control algorithms, target tracking algorithms, and communication protocols that enable seamless integration with onboard sensors, navigation systems, and networked command and control infrastructure. The control system optimizes weapon engagement sequences, adjusts for environmental factors, and ensures interoperability with other battlefield assets, enhancing the overall performance and interoperability of the Remote Weapon Station.
The weapons and armaments component comprises the actual weapon systems mounted on the Remote Weapon Station, including machine guns, automatic cannons, grenade launchers, and anti-tank missiles. These weapons are selected based on mission requirements, operational scenarios, and platform constraints, offering a range of firepower options for engaging various threats. The integration of diverse weapons and armaments enhances the versatility and lethality of the Remote Weapon Station, enabling it to address a wide spectrum of mission objectives across different operational environments.
Global Remote Weapon Station Market, Segmentation by Technology
The Global Remote Weapon Station Market has been segmented by Technology into Close-in Weapon Systems, Remote Controlled Gun Systems and Others.
Close-in Weapon Systems are a type of Remote Weapon Station designed for short-range defense against incoming threats, such as anti-ship missiles, aircraft, and small boats. CIWS platforms are characterized by rapid response times, high rates of fire, and autonomous engagement capabilities, providing close-range protection for naval vessels, critical infrastructure, and other high-value assets. These systems typically integrate radar-guided guns or Gatling-style cannons capable of delivering a dense barrage of projectiles to intercept and neutralize incoming threats in the terminal phase.
Remote Controlled Gun Systems represent a versatile category of Remote Weapon Stations designed for precision engagement of ground-based targets from a remote or protected position. These systems are commonly mounted on military vehicles, armored personnel carriers, and fixed installations, providing operators with the ability to remotely control and operate a variety of gun systems, including machine guns, automatic cannons, and grenade launchers. Remote Controlled Gun Systems offer enhanced firepower, accuracy, and lethality, enabling operators to engage threats effectively while minimizing exposure to enemy fire.
The Others category encompasses a diverse range of Remote Weapon Station technologies and configurations that do not fall under the Close-in Weapon Systems or Remote Controlled Gun Systems categories. This includes specialized RWS platforms tailored to specific mission requirements, such as anti-tank missile systems, missile defense systems, and non-lethal deterrents. These systems may incorporate advanced technologies such as guided missiles, electro-optical sensors, and fire-and-forget capabilities, offering unique capabilities for addressing specific threats or operational scenarios.
Global Remote Weapon Station Market, Segmentation by Platform
The Global Remote Weapon Station Market has been segmented by Platform into Land, Naval and Airborne.
Remote Weapon Stations deployed on land platforms are designed for use on various ground-based vehicles, including armored personnel carriers, infantry fighting vehicles, main battle tanks, and light reconnaissance vehicles. These land-based RWS platforms provide ground forces with enhanced firepower, situational awareness, and protection, enabling them to engage threats effectively while on the move or during stationary operations. Land-based RWS systems are utilized for a wide range of mission profiles, including convoy protection, perimeter security, border patrol, counterinsurgency operations, and urban warfare.
Remote Weapon Stations integrated into naval platforms are critical components of modern naval defense systems, providing ships and maritime vessels with enhanced firepower, maritime domain awareness, and self-defense capabilities. Naval RWS platforms are mounted on various types of naval vessels, including frigates, destroyers, patrol boats, and amphibious assault ships, enabling operators to engage surface and aerial threats with precision firepower while at sea. These systems play a vital role in maritime security, anti-piracy operations, coastal defense, and protection of strategic assets in littoral and blue-water environments.
Remote Weapon Stations deployed on airborne platforms are designed for integration onto rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft, providing aerial platforms with enhanced offensive and defensive capabilities. Airborne RWS platforms are typically mounted on helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and reconnaissance aircraft, enabling operators to engage ground-based targets and aerial threats from an elevated position. These systems support a variety of mission profiles, including close air support, reconnaissance, aerial interdiction, and counter-terrorism operations, enhancing the versatility and lethality of airborne assets in both offensive and defensive roles.
Global Remote Weapon Station Market, Segmentation by Mobility
The Global Remote Weapon Station Market has been segmented by Mobility into Stationary and Moving.
Stationary Remote Weapon Stations are deployed on fixed installations or stationary platforms, providing precision firepower and surveillance capabilities in static defense positions. These RWS platforms are commonly utilized for perimeter security, border surveillance, critical infrastructure protection, and static force protection missions. Stationary RWS installations offer operators the ability to monitor and engage threats from a fixed location, leveraging advanced sensors, fire control systems, and weapon systems to maintain a vigilant defensive posture and deter potential aggressors. While stationary RWS platforms lack mobility, they provide valuable force protection and situational awareness capabilities for safeguarding strategic assets and high-value targets.
Moving Remote Weapon Stations are integrated onto mobile platforms, including land-based vehicles, naval vessels, and airborne platforms, enabling operators to engage targets while on the move. These RWS platforms offer enhanced flexibility, agility, and responsiveness, allowing military forces to conduct offensive operations, convoy protection, and rapid deployment missions. Moving RWS systems are equipped with stabilization units, ruggedized components, and advanced fire control systems that compensate for platform motion and environmental factors, ensuring accurate and effective engagement of targets while in transit. By integrating Moving RWS platforms onto mobile platforms, military forces can maintain a dynamic and adaptive posture, responding swiftly to emerging threats and changing operational environments.
Global Remote Weapon Station Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Remote Weapon Station Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Remote Weapon Station Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2023
In North America, particularly in the United States, remote weapon systems are extensively utilized, marking the region as a prominent user. Key market players are intensifying their efforts to establish advanced armament facilities, thereby fostering market expansion. A significant driving force behind market growth is the continuous replacement of outdated technology with newer models. This growth trajectory is bolstered by increased military spending by the government and the flourishing weapons industry.
Meanwhile, in China, the market for remote weapon stations is predicted to exhibit a prominent Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) and maintain dominance during the forecast period. This trend is attributed to substantial investments in developing cutting-edge technological weapons. Furthermore, increased spending on Research and Development (R&D) by defense services is expected to contribute to market growth.
The market is also expected to benefit from the growing emphasis on bolstering military fleets and enhancing defense capabilities, with relevant authorities actively seeking to acquire remote weapon stations. Additionally, significant investments in research and development by leading authorities aim to enhance the efficiency of remote weapon systems. Consequently, the acquisition of weapons and military modernization initiatives are anticipated to propel the remote weapon station market in China forward.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Remote Weapon Station Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Enhanced Situational Awareness
- Force Protection and Soldier Safety
- Precision Engagement
- Flexibility and Versatility
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Integration with Network-Centric Warfare- Integration with network-centric warfare represents a pivotal aspect driving the advancement and adoption of Remote Weapon Station (RWS) technology on a global scale. These systems play a crucial role in modern warfare by seamlessly integrating into network-centric architectures, enabling real-time communication, coordination, and information sharing among various battlefield assets. Remote Weapon Stations are designed to interface with command and control (C2) systems, unmanned platforms, and reconnaissance assets, facilitating enhanced situational awareness and decision-making capabilities for military operators.
By leveraging network-centric warfare principles, RWS platforms can receive target data from multiple sources, including sensors, intelligence platforms, and other RWS units, enabling collaborative engagement of targets and dynamic battlefield management. Furthermore, integration with network-centric warfare enables remote operation and control of RWS platforms from centralized command centers or distributed tactical nodes, allowing for decentralized command and rapid response to emerging threats.
This interoperability enhances the effectiveness and lethality of Remote Weapon Stations in multi-domain operations, counterinsurgency campaigns, and coalition missions, positioning them as indispensable assets in modern military operations. As military forces continue to prioritize network-centric capabilities, the integration of Remote Weapon Stations into networked architectures will remain a critical driver shaping the evolution of warfare and defense strategies in the 21st century.
Restraints:
- Cost Constraints
- Complex Integration Process
- Regulatory and Export Controls
- Cybersecurity Concerns
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Operational Limitations- Despite their advanced capabilities, Remote Weapon Stations (RWS) are subject to operational limitations that can impact their effectiveness in certain scenarios. One significant limitation is the range constraint imposed by line-of-sight communication, which requires a clear and unobstructed path between the operator and the target. This limitation can restrict the engagement range of RWS platforms, particularly in complex terrain or urban environments where obstacles such as buildings, foliage, or terrain features may obstruct the line of sight.
Additionally, environmental factors such as adverse weather conditions, dust, smoke, or fog can degrade sensor performance and reduce target detection and engagement capabilities. Another operational limitation is the reliance on power sources, as RWS platforms require a continuous and reliable power supply to operate effectively. Interruptions or failures in power supply can render RWS systems inoperable, compromising mission readiness and effectiveness.
RWS platforms may face challenges in engaging moving targets, especially at long ranges, due to factors such as target speed, trajectory prediction, and platform stabilization. These operational limitations underscore the importance of robust training, contingency planning, and operational doctrine to mitigate risks and maximize the effectiveness of Remote Weapon Stations in diverse operational environments.
Opportunities:
- Technological Advancements
- Growing Demand for Unmanned Systems
- Focus on Urban Warfare and Asymmetric Threats
- International Collaborations and Partnerships
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Focus on Force Modernization- The Global Remote Weapon Station (RWS) Market is witnessing a significant focus on force modernization as military forces worldwide prioritize upgrading their capabilities to address evolving threats and operational challenges. Force modernization initiatives drive the demand for advanced RWS platforms equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, enhanced firepower, and improved situational awareness. Military organizations seek to replace outdated weapon systems with newer models featuring advanced sensors, fire control systems, and networking capabilities, enabling seamless integration into modern battlefield architectures.
These modern RWS platforms offer increased precision, lethality, and versatility, empowering military forces to effectively engage threats across a wide spectrum of operational scenarios. Additionally, force modernization efforts prioritize interoperability and integration with other command and control systems, unmanned platforms, and reconnaissance assets, enabling synchronized operations and collaborative engagement of targets in multi-domain environments.
The growing emphasis on asymmetric threats, urban warfare, and expeditionary operations drives the adoption of lightweight, modular RWS platforms that can be rapidly deployed and reconfigured to meet mission requirements. As military forces continue to invest in force modernization programs, the Global Remote Weapon Station Market is poised for sustained growth, with manufacturers focusing on innovation, technology integration, and agility to meet the evolving needs of modern warfare.
Remote Weapon Station Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Remote Weapon Station Market has become increasingly competitive as defense contractors pursue advanced strategies to enhance their market share. Intense focus on collaboration, joint development, and partnerships has led to diversified portfolios covering land, naval, and airborne platforms. Over 65% of leading firms emphasize innovation and integration of AI-enabled targeting to maintain a competitive edge.
Market Structure and Concentration
The market reflects a semi-consolidated structure where nearly 55% of revenues are captured by top-tier companies. Competitive concentration is driven by merger activity, long-term defense contracts, and established technological expertise. Smaller players are expanding through specialized solutions, yet large corporations dominate through scale, partnerships, and proven integration capabilities across diverse military systems.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Major defense firms strengthen their brand positioning through strategic alliances and robust distribution networks. Around 48% of contracts are secured via government partnerships and foreign military sales, while the rest stem from direct defense procurements. Companies leverage targeted strategies to secure long-term visibility, ensuring continuity of supply and fostering market growth.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Over 70% of market players invest heavily in technological advancements such as AI-driven surveillance, automated fire control, and modular design systems. Continuous innovation accelerates system efficiency and interoperability. Firms prioritize R&D strategies to strengthen defense capabilities, while collaborative ventures with tech firms drive the next phase of expansion in automated and remote-controlled weapon solutions.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Regional defense programs contribute significantly, with 60% of contracts linked to modernization and expansion projects across Europe, Asia-Pacific, and North America. Cross-border collaboration supports technology transfers and joint ventures. Nations emphasize localized production, ensuring regional self-reliance while reinforcing partnerships for global supply chains. This momentum highlights the strategic role of defense growth initiatives worldwide.
Future Outlook
The future outlook remains promising, with over 68% of companies expected to integrate next-generation automation and AI features into product pipelines. Continued merger activity and defense budget increases support market growth. Strategic collaboration between defense contractors and technology firms will shape the competitive balance, driving long-term innovation and advanced weapon station deployment.
Key players in Remote Weapon Station Market include:
- Kongsberg Gruppen
- Elbit Systems
- Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
- Thales
- Rheinmetall AG
- BAE Systems
- ASELSAN
- Leonardo
- Electro Optic Systems
- General Dynamics
- FN Herstal
- Moog
- ST Engineering
- SAAB
- Northrop Grumman
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Market Share Analysis
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Platform
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Component
- Market Snapshot, By Weapon Type
- Market Snapshot, By Technology
- Market Snapshot, By Mobility
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Remote Weapon Station Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Enhanced Situational Awareness
- Force Protection and Soldier Safety
- Precision Engagement
- Flexibility and Versatility
- Integration with Network-Centric Warfare
- Restraints
- Cost Constraints
- Complex Integration Process
- Regulatory and Export Controls
- Cybersecu rity Concerns
- Operational Limitations
- Opportunities
- Technological Advancements
- Growing Demand for Unmanned Systems
- Focus on Urban Warfare and Asymmetric Threats
- International Collaborations and Partnerships
- Focus on Force Modernization
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Remote Weapon Station Market, By Platform, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Land
- Ground Station
- Main Battle Tanks
- Armored Fighting Vehicles
- Others
- Naval
- Destroyers
- Frigates
- Corvettes
- Patrol & Mine Countermeasures Vessels
- Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs)
- Amphibious Vessels
- Unmanned Surface Vehicles
- Airborne
- Fighter Aircraft
- Attack Helicopters
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
- Land
- Remote Weapon Station Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Military
- Homeland Security
- Remote Weapon Station Market, By Component, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Human Machine Interface
- Stabilization Unit
- Control System
- Sensors
- Day Imaging Systems
- Thermal Imagers
- Rangefinders
- Laser Designator
- Laser Marker
- Weapons & Armaments
- Guns
- Launchers
- Directed Energy Weapons
- Remote Weapon Station Market, By Weapon Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Lethal Weapons
- Small Caliber
- Medium Caliber
- Non-Lethal Weapons
- Lethal Weapons
- Remote Weapon Station Market, By Technology, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Close-In Weapon Systems
- Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS)
- Remote Weapon Station Market, By Mobility, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Stationary
- Moving
- Remote Weapon Station Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Remote Weapon Station Market, By Platform, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Kongsberg Gruppen
- Elbit Systems
- Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
- Thales
- Rheinmetall AG
- BAE Systems
- ASELSAN
- Leonardo
- Electro Optic Systems
- General Dynamics
- FN Herstal
- Moog
- ST Engineering
- SAAB
- Northrop Grumman
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market