Thermal System-level Surveillance Market by Type (Fixed Cameras, Portable and Handheld Cameras), by Category (Long-Wave Infrared, Mid-Wave Infrared, Short-Wave Infrared), by Technology (Cooled Thermal Imaging, Uncooled Thermal Imaging), by Application (Su

The global thermal system-level surveillance market will grow from USD 1,290.83 million in 2023 to USD 2,716.4 million in 2032, achieving a sustained CAGR of 6.6%. The thermal system-level surveillance market encompasses advanced thermal cameras, drones, and integrated platforms that provide unparalleled visibility in darkness, fog, or complex terrains. Widely adopted in military modernization and critical security programs, these solutions enhance situational awareness, streamline reconnaissance, and deliver superior decision-making capabilities to meet the evolving demands of global security.
Escalating defense investments across global economies are driving demand for advanced thermal system-level surveillance solutions. To keep the borders safe and also have less reliance on the labor force in rough areas, governments are installing UAV surveillance drones, high-resolution thermal cameras, and a host of other long-range imaging platforms. Along with the rest of the world, the United States aims at a real-time intelligence and rapid response scenario as the main cause of the procurement of thermal solutions for armored vehicles and drones. As Europe, Asia, and North America have all decided to expand their defense budgets, the trials of thermal surveillance technology are turning out to be more and more essential for the security and reconnaissance wings of the strategic armies.

Key Company Development
Leonardo is moving forward to strengthen its position as a leader in global thermal system-level surveillance through innovation, expansion, and collaboration. The company’s increased R&D investments resulted in AI-based Osprey and Mirage systems integration that takes the lead position in the detection and decision processes in complex mission scenarios. The breadth of the company’s defense portfolio has been broadened with the debut of the Mirage 400 and Osprey 1000, which are tailored to meet the surveillance needs of UAVs and defense. The takeover of Opto, a company specializing in developing high-tech infrared technology, offers greater opportunities in the field of research, and the partnership with Airbus, which enables the aircraft to be integrated into airborne ISR platforms, goes far enough to further open up the door for unexpected potential. Combining all these efforts, Leonardo not only attains top technological competence but also penetrates new market territories and earns the trust of the customers, thereby creating the superior global expansion that is typical of long-term growth.

Major Competitors
Key competitors in the global thermal system-level surveillance market are Teledyne FLIR LLC, Hikvision, Dahua Technology, Axis Communications, Bosch Security Systems, Honeywell Security, Panasonic, Sony, Samsung, and Aselsan.

Report Attribute Details
Market Size 2023 USD 1290.83 Million
Market Size 2032 USD 2,716.4 Million
CAGR (2024-2032) 6.6%
Base Year 2023
Market Forecast Period 2024-2032
Historical Data 2019-2024

Market Segmentation Insights
By Type: Fixed Cameras – 8.3%, Portable and Handheld Cameras – 10.2%.
By Category: Long-Wave Infrared – 8.3%, Mid-Wave Infrared – 9.2%.
By Technology: Cooled Thermal Imaging – 8.4%, Uncooled Thermal Imaging – 10.7%.
By Application: Surveillance and targeting – 8.0%, Counter-UAS – 10.9%.
By Platform: Land – 5.4%, Airborne – 7.9%.
by End User: Military/Defense – 5.7%, Homeland Security – 9.2%.

Regional Perspectives
North America is a dominant revenue contributor, supported by robust defense contracts and homeland security spending. The U.S. is rapidly deploying AI-driven thermal surveillance in counter-UAS, border patrol, and wildfire response. Anchored by the U.S. at USD 380.4 million and Canada at USD 104.3 million, North America continues to set the benchmark for thermal surveillance demand, supported by robust defense and homeland security investments.
Europe’s market outlook is reinforced by strong defense budgets and EU-funded R&D in thermal imaging. The region is embracing AI-based thermal cameras to modernize military reconnaissance, border control, and public safety operations. Germany, the UK, and France collectively drive Europe’s market expansion, with USD 83.0 million, USD 69.3 million, and USD 61.3 million, reflecting strong momentum in military modernization and public safety initiatives.
Asia-Pacific stands out as a high-growth investment destination. China, India, and Japan are directing capital into military drones, armored vehicles, and surveillance towers equipped with next-generation thermal imaging. China’s USD 98.9 million leadership, alongside India’s USD 65.2 million and Japan’s USD 46.9 million, underscores Asia-Pacific’s rising prominence as a high-growth hub for thermal imaging technologies across defense and smart infrastructure.
In South America, market growth is shaped by defense modernization in Brazil and Colombia alongside critical infrastructure security needs. Disaster-prone geographies, including the Amazon wildfire zones and Andean volcanic belts, are driving demand for thermal-based early warning and emergency response systems. Commercial uptake in refineries and utilities adds further traction.
MEA’s trajectory is defined by strong military investments in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt, alongside rising applications in counter-terrorism and maritime surveillance. Thermal imaging drones and long-range border monitoring are central to regional defense strategies. In Africa, adoption is extending into conservation, firefighting, and urban safety programs.
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