Shoulder Fired Weapons Market Deep Dive – PESTLE, Porter, SWOT
The Shoulder-Fired Weapons Market is expected to undergo major transformations in the coming years, driven by technological advancements, changes in military strategies, and rising geopolitical tensions. The demand for versatile and effective shoulder-fired weapon systems is likely to increase as countries seek to modernize their armed forces. Shoulder-fired weapons, owing to their mobility and ease of use, play a crucial role in conventional as well as asymmetric warfare. They are used for a wide variety of applications such as anti-tank guided missiles, man-portable air defense systems, and multi-role launchers, and are designed to meet specific operational requirements. The integration of smart technologies and advanced targeting systems is also reshaping the market by offering enhanced accuracy and performance. As the Shoulder-Fired Weapons Market evolves, it is important for the key players to understand the key drivers, challenges, and trends, in order to make informed strategic decisions.
PESTLE Analysis
- Political:
In 2024, the geopolitical situation will continue to influence the market for self-propelled guns, especially in the case of the Middle East and Eastern Europe. In the case of Ukraine, the United States has allocated around $ 1.2 billion in military aid, including the provision of rifled guns. Furthermore, the increased military expenditure of the individual NATO members has already risen to 2.5% of their GDP, which is a commitment to strengthening the military's capabilities, which also drives the demand for rifled guns.
- Economic:
In 2024 the world’s defence budget is expected to reach $US2 tr., with an increase in spending on advanced weapons, including shoulder-fired systems. India and China will invest approximately $US70–250 bn. in their military modernization programmes, which will include the procurement of shoulder-fired systems. The growing trend of putting national security above all else is a reflection of the growing importance of national security in the face of the current rise in tensions.
- Social:
In the democratic nations, the public is more and more concerned with the use of weapons of war and with the use of a shoulder-fired weapon. In a survey in 2024, 62% of Americans said they were concerned about the ethical aspects of selling arms to combat zones. This could have an effect on government policy and on the way arms are procured. This public concern is important because it could lead to greater demand for transparency and accountability in the arms trade, which could have an effect on the market.
- Technological:
The market for shoulder-fired weapons is being re-evaluated. Technological innovations are bringing smarter targeting systems and increased portability. In 2024, the integration of artificial intelligence into weapons systems is expected to increase. About thirty per cent of new shoulder-fired weapons are expected to have smart features. This will improve accuracy and increase the safety of the operators, making the weapons more attractive to armed forces.
- Legal:
The regulatory framework for the international market for small arms is becoming more and more strict, and international treaties such as the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) are gaining in importance. In 2024, 110 countries have ratified the ATT, which aims to regulate the international trade in conventional weapons, including small arms. The compliance of manufacturers and exporters with these regulations is of great importance, as breaches can lead to severe sanctions and restrictions.
- Environmental:
The manufacture and use of shoulder-fired weapons has raised certain questions concerning the environment, particularly the production processes and the munitions themselves. In 2024 the arms industry is under pressure to adopt greener practices, and some twenty-five per cent of companies in the sector have vowed to reduce their carbon footprint. This shift towards greater responsibility is becoming a determining factor in government procurement, as governments seek to reconcile military operations with their duty to protect the environment.
Porters Five Forces
- Threat of New Entrants:
“The shoulder-fired weapons market is characterized by high entry barriers, including high capital requirements, the need for strict compliance with regulatory requirements, and the need for advanced technology and skills. Nevertheless, the growing demand for self-defense and military products could attract new players, which would result in a moderate threat of competition.”
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers:
The number of suppliers in the market for shoulder-fired weapons is relatively large, and many of the parts are interchangeable between different manufacturers. The large number of suppliers reduces their bargaining power, as companies can easily change suppliers without great expense or inconvenience.
- Bargaining Power of Buyers:
The purchasers in this market, including military and police organizations, have considerable bargaining power due to their ability to purchase in large quantities and to enter into long-term contracts. Their requirement for reliable and high-quality products also gives them an additional influence on prices and conditions.
- Threat of Substitutes:
“Meanwhile, although other weapons are available, such as drones and other military technology, the unique capabilities of the shoulder-fired weapon reduce the threat of substitutes. However, technological advances could lead to the development of more effective substitutes, resulting in a moderate threat level.
- Competitive Rivalry:
The market for shoulder-fired weapons is characterized by a high degree of competition between established and new manufacturers. In order to win a share of the market, companies are constantly innovating and improving their products. This competition is reflected in the prices and the need for differentiation.
SWOT Analysis
- Strengths:
- High demand for portable and versatile weapon systems among military and law enforcement agencies.
- Advancements in technology leading to improved accuracy and effectiveness of shoulder-fired weapons.
- Strong government funding and defense budgets supporting research and development in this sector.
- Weaknesses:
- Regulatory challenges and restrictions on the sale and distribution of firearms in various regions.
- High production costs associated with advanced materials and technologies.
- Potential negative public perception and backlash against the use of shoulder-fired weapons.
- Opportunities:
- Emerging markets in developing countries seeking to enhance their defense capabilities.
- Increased focus on counter-terrorism and asymmetric warfare driving demand for lightweight weaponry.
- Non-lethal variants of shoulder-fired weapons for law enforcement.
- Threats:
- Intense competition from alternative weapon systems and technologies.
- Geopolitical tensions leading to fluctuating defense budgets and procurement strategies.
- Risks of proliferation and misuse of shoulder-fired weapons in conflict zones.
The Shoulder-Fired Weapons Market in 2024 is characterized by strong demand, driven by military and law enforcement requirements, and by technological advancements. The market is challenged by regulatory restrictions and public perception issues. Opportunities lie in emerging markets and in the development of non-lethal alternatives. The market is threatened by competition and by the geopolitical situation. Strategic focus on innovation and regulatory issues are important for all market participants.