Global Explosive Detectors Market Size study & Forecast, by Technology (Trace Detector and Bulk Detector), by Product Type (Vehicle Mounted, Handheld, Robotics, Others), by End User (Military & Defence, Cargo & Transport, Aviation, Public Places, Others)

The Global Explosive Detectors Market is valued approximately at USD 10 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow with a striking CAGR of more than 12.00% during the forecast period 2025–2035. Explosive detectors are highly sophisticated devices used to identify explosive materials, vapors, or residues in real time, ensuring the safety and protection of people and critical infrastructure. These devices play an indispensable role across high-risk environments such as airports, military zones, cargo facilities, and public venues. They operate using technologies such as ion mobility spectrometry, neutron analysis, and chemical trace detection to locate and confirm the presence of explosive compounds with precision. The market’s expansion is primarily attributed to the rising incidence of terrorist threats, increasing government investments in homeland security, and the adoption of advanced screening systems for border and transportation security. Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence, robotics, and machine learning has redefined detection accuracy and speed, making explosive detection an integral component of the modern security ecosystem.

As geopolitical tensions intensify and transnational terrorism persists, nations are significantly scaling up their security infrastructure, thereby propelling the explosive detectors market. These devices are now essential in both defense and civilian applications, offering rapid detection and automated screening to mitigate security risks. Airports and transportation hubs have become focal points for deployment, as global air travel resumes post-pandemic and necessitates high-throughput passenger screening systems. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), air passenger traffic is expected to double by 2040, which in turn is likely to accelerate the installation of advanced explosive detection systems at checkpoints worldwide. Meanwhile, continuous technological evolution—such as AI-driven data analytics, miniaturized sensors, and multi-modal scanning—has widened the scope of explosive detection to non-traditional areas such as smart cities and event management. However, the high initial costs of installation and maintenance, coupled with the need for regular calibration and skilled personnel, remain significant challenges that could temper market growth during the forecast period.

The detailed segments and sub-segments included in the report are:

By Technology:
• Trace Detector
• Bulk Detector

By Product Type:
• Vehicle Mounted
• Handheld
• Robotics
• Others

By End User:
• Military & Defence
• Cargo & Transport
• Aviation
• Public Places
• Others

By Region:

North America
• U.S.
• Canada

Europe
• UK
• Germany
• France
• Spain
• Italy
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America
• Brazil
• Mexico

Middle East & Africa
• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Rest of Middle East & Africa

Trace Detection Technology is Expected to Dominate the Market

Among the technologies, the trace detection segment is anticipated to maintain dominance throughout the forecast period. Trace detectors are extensively employed due to their high sensitivity in identifying minute traces of explosive materials on luggage, cargo, or clothing. Their widespread use in airports, seaports, and land borders underscores their pivotal role in real-time threat identification. Continuous innovation in spectrometry and laser-based sensing technologies has enhanced the accuracy and portability of trace detectors, allowing faster on-site screening and data transmission. Additionally, regulatory mandates from defense and aviation authorities emphasizing advanced trace detection for security compliance have further fortified this segment’s growth. While bulk detectors continue to play a critical role in high-volume screening and large cargo assessments, trace detection technologies remain the benchmark for precision and rapid deployment in security-sensitive environments.

Handheld Devices Lead in Revenue Contribution

By product type, handheld explosive detectors are projected to generate the largest share of market revenue. Their compact design, portability, and ability to deliver rapid results make them the preferred choice across military operations, law enforcement agencies, and field inspection units. Handheld systems enable flexible mobility and immediate threat assessment without requiring bulky infrastructure, making them indispensable in time-sensitive missions. Moreover, the surge in demand for real-time mobile detection, especially across public events, transportation terminals, and high-traffic zones, continues to bolster this segment’s prominence. While vehicle-mounted and robotic explosive detectors are gaining ground due to their integration with AI-driven surveillance systems and autonomous patrolling technologies, handheld devices remain the backbone of rapid-response security solutions, commanding substantial adoption across both defense and civilian landscapes.

The key regions considered for the Global Explosive Detectors Market study include North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. North America dominated the market in 2024 with the largest market share, propelled by heightened homeland security investments, extensive airport modernization projects, and technological advancements led by major defense contractors. The United States, in particular, has been at the forefront of developing multi-layered security architectures that combine robotics, sensors, and data analytics for enhanced threat prevention. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest growth rate during the forecast period, supported by rising defense budgets, expansion of aviation networks, and increasing border security initiatives across nations like India, China, and Japan. Europe follows closely, driven by stringent aviation safety regulations, cross-border security collaborations, and the integration of AI-based detection systems within critical infrastructure protection programs.

Major market players included in this report are:
• Smiths Detection Group Ltd.
• Rapiscan Systems Inc.
• Leidos Holdings, Inc.
• Analogic Corporation
• Teledyne FLIR LLC
• L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
• Bruker Corporation
• Nuctech Company Limited
• Chemring Group PLC
• Autoclear LLC
• OSI Systems, Inc.
• Westminster Group PLC
• American Science and Engineering, Inc.
• Safran S.A.
• Implant Sciences Corporation

Global Explosive Detectors Market Report Scope:
• Historical Data – 2023, 2024
• Base Year for Estimation – 2024
• Forecast period - 2025-2035
• Report Coverage - Revenue forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth factors, and Trends
• Regional Scope - North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa

The objective of the study is to define market sizes of different segments & countries in recent years and to forecast the values for the coming years. The report is designed to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the industry within the countries involved in the study. The report also provides detailed information about crucial aspects, such as driving factors and challenges, which will define the future growth of the market. Additionally, it incorporates potential opportunities in micro-markets for stakeholders to invest, along with a detailed analysis of the competitive landscape and product offerings of key players. The detailed segments and sub-segments of the market are explained below:

Key Takeaways:
• Market Estimates & Forecast for 10 years from 2025 to 2035.
• Annualized revenues and regional-level analysis for each market segment.
• Detailed analysis of the geographical landscape with country-level analysis of major regions.
• Competitive landscape with information on major players in the market.
• Analysis of key business strategies and recommendations on future market approach.
• Analysis of the competitive structure of the market.
• Demand side and supply side analysis of the market.

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