Artillery Systems Market Assessment, By Type [Howitzers, Mortars, Anti-Air Weapons, Rocket Artillery, Others], By Component [Gun Turret, Fire Control System, Ammunition Handling System, Engine, Chassis, Auxiliary Systems], By Range [Short Range, Medium Ra

Global artillery systems market is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.51% during the forecast period 2025-2032, growing from USD 9.66 billion in 2024 to USD 16 billion in 2032F owing to modernization initiatives, technological advancements, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. The resurgence of conventional warfare and the emphasis on precision and mobility have propelled investments in advanced artillery platforms. The future expects armies around the globe to include wheeled howitzers. These systems have evolved with more accurate, longer-range, and more mobile capabilities than ever before. This is due in part to the ongoing modernization of artillery systems around the world that includes higher budgets and technology.

For instance, in February 2025, Elbit Systems Ltd. awarded a USD 57 million contract to deliver its PULS Rocket Launcher Artillery System to the German armed forces. As part of the agreement, Elbit Systems and KNDS Deutschland will supply rocket artillery systems, together with related modifications and the incorporation of German C4I hardware (e.g., command and weapons control systems). Furthermore, it facilitates the incorporation of external munitions, enabling the system to launch rocket munitions manufactured by different original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

Modernization and Replacement Program to Fuel the Market

Nations are replacing outdated artillery with advanced systems featuring enhanced range, mobility, and precision. For instance, the U.S. Army invests in the Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) and modernizes self-propelled howitzers to bolster long-range capabilities. Integrating artificial intelligence, network-centric warfare capabilities, and precision-guided munitions is revolutionizing artillery operations. AI-powered fire control systems and digital technologies enhance accuracy, reduce collateral damage, and enable real-time battlefield decision-making. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies is transforming artillery operations. AI-powered fire control systems analyze vast data sets—including terrain, weather, and enemy movement—to optimize targeting, improve accuracy, and minimize collateral damage. Machine learning algorithms and neural networks enhance situational awareness and enable predictive modeling, allowing commanders to anticipate enemy actions and adapt tactics in real-time.

For instance, in November 2024, China launched a new artillery system that weighs about 14 tonnes. The turret has a 155 mm barrel and has a length of 52 calibre. The system is installed on an 8×8 wheeled chassis, engineered for enhanced mobility, protection, and accurate firepower. Norinco (China North Industries Group Corporation Limited) also announced that the SH16A has been fully developed and is prepared for production.

Higher Defense Budget and Shift Towards Indigenous Manufacturing to Propel Market Growth

Heightened geopolitical tensions and conflicts have led to increased defense budgets worldwide. Countries are prioritizing developing and procuring advanced artillery systems to strengthen their military capabilities. Furthermore, the market comprises trends like precision-guided munitions, modular and scalable systems, and the digital transformation of artillery systems. There is also a growing trend towards developing lightweight, rapidly deployable artillery systems suitable for diverse terrains and expeditionary warfare. Emerging economies are focusing on developing domestic artillery production to reduce reliance on imports and enhance strategic autonomy. India, for example, is advancing its Indigenous artillery programs, including the Dhanush and ATAGS systems.

For instance, in March 2025, the Indian Ministry of Defence signed two major contracts worth a combined total of approximately USD 886 million with domestic companies Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced Systems Limited. The ATAGS is a towed artillery system with a 155mm/52 caliber designed for long-range operations. It is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and is produced by Bharat Forge. This system aims to replace outdated and less efficient artillery pieces in the Indian Army, providing improved range, firepower, and mobility.

Howitzer Segment Leads with Higher Dynamic Operability

The howitzer segment leads the global artillery systems market due to its unique blend of firepower, mobility, and technological advancement. Modern howitzers, whether towed or self-propelled, feature large-caliber barrels capable of firing heavy projectiles at high angles, enabling indirect fire that targets hidden behind cover without direct line of sight.

Their design leads to rapid deployment and repositioning on the battlefield, further becoming a critical advantage in dynamic combat scenarios. Continuous military modernization programs and rising geopolitical tensions have driven significant investment in advanced howitzer systems, especially those with enhanced fire control, improved range, and greater accuracy. The segment’s growth is further propelled by the increasing demand for self-propelled variants, which offer superior operational flexibility and survivability for ground forces.

For instance, in February 2025, the United States Army announced the launch of a self-propelled howitzer. The initiation of a new competition for self-propelled howitzer comes after the discontinuation of the Extended-Range Artillery Cannon program. This program sought to equip the Paladin M109 howitzer of BAE Systems plc with a 30-foot (9-meter) gun tube to extend its range to 70 kilometers (43 miles). In response to current deficiencies in long-range artillery, the US Army has been organizing international road shows to explore potential solutions.

North America leads the Market with Higher Number of Flights

North America leads the global artillery systems market due to its strong defense infrastructure and significant investment in advanced military technologies. The region benefits from a well-established industrial base with major defense contractors driving innovation in artillery design, including enhanced precision, automation, and mobility. Continuous modernization programs ensure that artillery systems remain at the forefront of technological advancements, improving range, accuracy, and operational flexibility. Additionally, strategic military alliances and commitments encourage the ongoing development and deployment of sophisticated artillery platforms. This combination of robust funding, cutting-edge research, and strategic priorities enables North America to remain dominant in the global artillery systems market.

For instance, in July 2024, the United States Army initiated the development of a 155mm anti-aircraft artillery system. The Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) has detailed its strategy to acquire Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon (MDAC) prototypes. This system is intended to be a highly mobile, self-propelled, wheeled artillery unit to address aerial and missile threats. The Army intends to issue a contract for the manufacturing of eight prototypes in the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, with anticipated delivery in the fall of 2027.

Impact of the U.S. Tariff on Artillery Systems Market

The U.S. tariffs on critical industrial materials—such as steel, aluminum, copper, and brass—have significantly increased production costs for artillery systems, leading to higher prices and strained supply chains. Defense manufacturers now compete with private-sector buyers for limited domestic materials, causing delays and budget overruns, particularly for cost-reimbursable government contracts.

Retaliatory tariffs from major suppliers like China have further disrupted access to essential components, forcing American firms to seek costlier alternatives and extend lead times. While these measures aim to bolster domestic manufacturing in the long term, the immediate effect has been reduced profitability, production slowdowns, and challenges in meeting both domestic and allied defense commitments.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

Key players in the artillery systems market focus on innovation, strategic partnerships, and technological integration to maintain competitiveness and address evolving defense requirements. Their strategies emphasize the development of advanced solutions, such as precision-guided munitions, automation, and digital fire control systems, to enhance accuracy and operational efficiency. Collaboration with defense ministries and cross-border alliances enables these players to secure major contracts and expand their global footprint. Continuous investment in research and development ensures rapid adaptation to emerging threats and battlefield needs. Companies tend to test new technologies to understand their capabilities and deliver accordingly.

For instance, in September 2023, Lockheed Martin Corporation test-fired a missile with twice the range of existing rocket artillery. Developed and evaluated by the defense powerhouse Lockheed Martin, the Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System boasts a range that exceeds twice that of the current Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System utilized by the United States and various other nations.