Main Battle Tank (MBT) Market, Global, 2024–2027
Description
The global main battle tank (MBT) market is entering a new phase of modernization and strategic realignment. Rising geopolitical instability, high-intensity conflict scenarios, and growing demand for land-based deterrence capabilities are driving renewed investment cycles across NATO, APAC, and MENA. According to Frost & Sullivan’s Aerospace & Defense research practice, the convergence of digitization, modularity, and cross-domain integration is redefining the armored warfare paradigm.
Key market trends include the adoption of next-generation survivability systems such as active protection systems (APS) and counter-UAV solutions, the evolution of integrated battlefield networks, and the increasing emphasis on platform scalability and life cycle cost efficiency. Frost & Sullivan identifies a shift toward hybrid procurement models—combining indigenous production with global OEM partnerships—as a critical growth driver in regions such as Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia.
Global MBT-related defense spending is projected to grow steadily through 2027, supported by flagship programs such as the MGCS (EU), K2 Black Panther exports (South Korea), India’s Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV), and Israel’s Merkava program. Frost & Sullivan’s competitive benchmarking highlights that companies delivering value through agile innovation and adaptable platforms will secure long-term defense partnerships. As nations pursue greater readiness and interoperability, the MBT market offers high-potential opportunities for stakeholders aligned with capability building and battlefield adaptability.
Further trends include the shift toward modular and upgradeable platforms, enhanced survivability through APS, and integration of AI-enabled fire control and situational awareness. Digitization is becoming standard, emphasizing network-centric warfare and interoperability. Sustainability initiatives—such as hybrid-electric propulsion systems—are entering early R&D stages, reflecting growing environmental considerations in defense planning.
Defense budgets dedicated to MBTs are expected to expand through 2035, driven by major procurement programs in Poland, India, South Korea, and the United States. The EU is advancing joint development under the MGCS initiative, while APAC remains a hub for indigenous development and export activity. Off-the-shelf sales via Foreign Military Sales (FMS) channels continue to serve as key routes for American and Western suppliers to extend their market influence.
Growth opportunities lie in next-generation technologies, simulation and training systems, supply chain localization, and mid-life upgrade programs for aging fleets. Companies offering cost-effective, scalable, and future-ready platforms—with strong after-sales support—are best positioned to capitalize on rising global demand for armored solutions across both conventional and hybrid warfare domains.
Key market trends include the adoption of next-generation survivability systems such as active protection systems (APS) and counter-UAV solutions, the evolution of integrated battlefield networks, and the increasing emphasis on platform scalability and life cycle cost efficiency. Frost & Sullivan identifies a shift toward hybrid procurement models—combining indigenous production with global OEM partnerships—as a critical growth driver in regions such as Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia.
Global MBT-related defense spending is projected to grow steadily through 2027, supported by flagship programs such as the MGCS (EU), K2 Black Panther exports (South Korea), India’s Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV), and Israel’s Merkava program. Frost & Sullivan’s competitive benchmarking highlights that companies delivering value through agile innovation and adaptable platforms will secure long-term defense partnerships. As nations pursue greater readiness and interoperability, the MBT market offers high-potential opportunities for stakeholders aligned with capability building and battlefield adaptability.
Further trends include the shift toward modular and upgradeable platforms, enhanced survivability through APS, and integration of AI-enabled fire control and situational awareness. Digitization is becoming standard, emphasizing network-centric warfare and interoperability. Sustainability initiatives—such as hybrid-electric propulsion systems—are entering early R&D stages, reflecting growing environmental considerations in defense planning.
Defense budgets dedicated to MBTs are expected to expand through 2035, driven by major procurement programs in Poland, India, South Korea, and the United States. The EU is advancing joint development under the MGCS initiative, while APAC remains a hub for indigenous development and export activity. Off-the-shelf sales via Foreign Military Sales (FMS) channels continue to serve as key routes for American and Western suppliers to extend their market influence.
Growth opportunities lie in next-generation technologies, simulation and training systems, supply chain localization, and mid-life upgrade programs for aging fleets. Companies offering cost-effective, scalable, and future-ready platforms—with strong after-sales support—are best positioned to capitalize on rising global demand for armored solutions across both conventional and hybrid warfare domains.
Table of Contents
47 Pages
- Strategic Imperatives
- Why is it Increasingly Difficult to Grow?
- The Strategic Imperative 8™
- The Impact of the Top 3 Strategic Imperatives on the MBT Industry
- Growth Opportunities: Research Scope
- Scope of Analysis
- Research Methodology
- Market Segmentation
- MBT Segmentation Overview
- Global MBT Highlighted Platforms Heavy Category
- Global MBT Highlighted Platforms Medium and Light Categories
- Growth Opportunity Analysis
- Growth Drivers
- Growth Restraints
- Regional Analysis
- Spending Forecast and Analysis
- Market Forecast Analysis
- MBT Market Highlighted Trends Analysis
- Key Vendors By Segments
- North America MBT Main Military Build-Up Programs
- North America Representative MBT Contracts
- Abrams MBT FMS Program
- European MBT Programs
- European MBT Representative Contracts
- Other Regions—Key Countries MBT Representative Programs
- Other Regions—Key Countries MBT Representative Contracts
- Growth Opportunity Universe
- Growth Opportunity 1: Procurement
- Growth Opportunity 2: R&D
- Growth Opportunity 3: Global Collaborations
- Appendix & Next Steps
- Benefits and Impacts of Growth Opportunities
- Next Steps
- List of Exhibits
- Legal Disclaimer
Pricing
Currency Rates
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