Military Actuators Market Size
Market Overview
| Study Period | 2020 - 2030 |
| Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
| Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
| Growth Rate | 3.14% CAGR |
| Fastest Growing Market | Asia-Pacific |
| Largest Market | North America |
| Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0. |
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Military Actuators Market Analysis
The Military Actuators Market is expected to register a CAGR of 3.14% during the forecast period.
The military actuators industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by geopolitical tensions and technological advancements. The global defense landscape has witnessed unprecedented changes, with world military spending surpassing USD 2 trillion for the first time in 2021, reflecting growing security concerns worldwide. This surge in defense investments has particularly benefited the military actuator manufacturing sector, as countries seek to enhance their military capabilities through advanced equipment and systems. The United States and China remain dominant forces in global military expenditure, collectively accounting for 52% of total world military spending, which has created substantial opportunities for actuator manufacturers serving these major markets.
The industry is witnessing a revolutionary shift towards electric actuator systems, driven by their superior precision and reliability compared to traditional hydraulic systems. Electric actuators are increasingly preferred for their flexibility, accuracy, and enhanced force capabilities, making them ideal for sophisticated military applications. Manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development to improve electric actuator technology, focusing on reducing weight, increasing efficiency, and enhancing overall performance. This transition is particularly evident in next-generation aircraft programs, where electric actuators are becoming standard components for flight control systems.
Advanced manufacturing technologies are reshaping the production landscape of military actuators, with 3D printing emerging as a game-changing innovation. This technology enables manufacturers to produce actuators as single structures, significantly reducing overall weight and improving performance characteristics. The integration of smart technologies and automation in manufacturing processes has also led to enhanced quality control and increased production efficiency. Raytheon Technologies, commanding a 10.1% market share as the industry leader, has been at the forefront of implementing these advanced manufacturing techniques.
The industry is experiencing a geographical shift in manufacturing capabilities, particularly towards the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions. This transformation is driven by countries' efforts to develop local defense manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependence on imports. China's significant defense budget increase of 7.1% in 2022, reaching approximately CNY 1.45 trillion, exemplifies this trend of regional manufacturing capability development. This shift has prompted global actuator manufacturers to establish regional production facilities and form strategic partnerships with local enterprises, leading to a more distributed and resilient supply chain structure.
Military Actuators Market Trends
Growth in Military Spending of Various Countries Worldwide
The global military landscape has witnessed substantial increases in defense spending, with worldwide military expenditure reaching USD 2.1 trillion in 2022. This unprecedented level of spending reflects the growing emphasis on military modernization and technological advancement across nations. The five largest military spenders—the United States, China, India, the United Kingdom, and Russia—collectively accounted for 62% of global military spending, highlighting the concentrated nature of defense investments. The United States maintained its position as the world's largest defense spender with a budget of USD 801 billion, while China allocated USD 293 billion to military spending, representing a significant 4.7% increase compared to the previous year.
The escalation in military spending has been particularly evident in research and development initiatives, with countries focusing on developing next-generation military technologies. For instance, the United States has increased its funding for military research and development by 24% between 2012 and 2021, demonstrating a clear shift towards advanced military capabilities. This trend is further exemplified by Russia's 2.9% increase in military expenditure to USD 65.9 billion, coinciding with its strategic military modernization efforts. The sustained growth in defense spending worldwide has created a robust demand for military actuators, as countries seek to enhance their military capabilities through the acquisition and development of advanced defense systems, vehicles, and aircraft.
Military Aircraft Fleet Modernization Plans Through the Acquisition/Development of Advanced Military Aircraft
The global military landscape is experiencing a significant transformation through comprehensive aircraft fleet modernization programs, driven by evolving battlefield requirements and advancing aerial technology. Countries worldwide are actively pursuing the acquisition and development of advanced military aircraft to maintain technological superiority and combat readiness. This modernization encompasses various aspects, including modification, upgrading, and substitution of existing infrastructure, along with the integration of cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational efficiency and productivity. The modernization initiatives focus particularly on improving aircraft workability through the implementation of modern equipment and automation systems.
Recent developments highlight the accelerating pace of military aircraft modernization. For instance, in January 2023, Leidos segment Dynetics awarded a contract to Curtiss-Wright for developing electromechanical actuators, which will be integrated into the Enduring Shield ground-based launcher systems for the United States Army. This development underscores the critical role of military actuators in modern defense systems. Similarly, the Indian Air Force has initiated efforts to expedite the long-delayed upgrades on their Sukhoi 30 MK I fighter aircraft, with upgrades planned in different phases. The United States Navy has also embarked on a comprehensive upgrade program for its E-2D Advanced Hawkeye command-and-control aircraft, encompassing improvements in cockpit avionics, mission systems, communication capabilities, and cybersecurity, demonstrating the widespread focus on aircraft modernization across major military powers.
Segment Analysis: Type
Rotary Segment in Military Actuators Market
The military actuator rotary segment dominates the military actuators market, commanding approximately 67% of the total market share in 2024. This segment's prominence can be attributed to several key advantages that rotary actuators offer over linear actuators, including lower maintenance requirements, unrestricted travel distance capabilities, and high torque availability. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are increasingly favoring rotary actuators due to their superior performance characteristics and operational efficiency. The segment is also experiencing the fastest growth rate in the market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 3.3% from 2024 to 2029, driven by increasing adoption in various military applications, including aircraft control systems, weapons positioning mechanisms, and naval vessel operations. The segment's growth is further supported by ongoing technological advancements and innovations in rotary actuator design, making them more reliable and efficient for military applications.
Linear Segment in Military Actuators Market
The linear segment represents a significant portion of the military actuator market, serving crucial applications across various military platforms. Linear actuators play a vital role in military operations, being extensively utilized in cargo trucks, combat vehicles, turret control systems, gun elevation mechanisms, weapons positioning, and door/hatch actuation systems. These actuators are particularly valued in applications requiring straight-line motion control and precise positioning. The segment's importance is underscored by its widespread use in land-based vessels, marine vessels, and military aircraft, where they provide essential motion control capabilities. Linear actuators are designed to withstand critical weather conditions, heavy impacts, and harsh environmental conditions, making them indispensable in military applications where reliability and durability are paramount.
Segment Analysis: System
Hydraulic Segment in Military Actuators Market
The hydraulic segment dominates the military actuators market, commanding approximately 44% market share in 2024. This significant market position is attributed to the widespread use of hydraulic actuators in military aircraft and ground vehicles. These actuators are particularly valued for their reliability and high-force capabilities in critical military applications. Major manufacturers are expanding their production capabilities to meet the growing demand, with companies like Liebherr-Components Kirchdorf GmbH constructing new hydraulic cylinder production facilities. The segment's dominance is further reinforced by the increasing adoption of hydraulic actuators in next-generation military platforms and the ongoing modernization of existing military equipment across various nations.
Electrical Segment in Military Actuators Market
The electrical segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in the military actuators market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 4% during 2024-2029. This growth is primarily driven by the global military trend toward electrification and the increasing preference for electric systems over traditional hydraulic solutions. The segment is witnessing significant technological advancements, with manufacturers developing new electric actuator models offering enhanced precision and reliability. The adoption of electrical actuators is particularly strong in modern military aircraft, including next-generation fighter jets and unmanned aerial vehicles, where their lighter weight and improved efficiency provide crucial advantages. The segment's growth is further supported by increasing investments in electric military vehicles and advanced weapons systems that require sophisticated electrical actuation solutions.
Remaining Segments in System Segmentation
The mechanical and pneumatic segments continue to play vital roles in the military actuators market, each serving specific applications and requirements. Mechanical actuators are valued for their simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, particularly in less complex military applications. These systems are commonly used in basic movement control and positioning applications. Meanwhile, pneumatic actuators have carved out a significant niche in specialized military applications where compressed air or gas-powered systems are preferred, especially in environments where electrical systems might pose safety risks. Both segments continue to evolve with technological advancements, though at a more moderate pace compared to electrical systems.
Segment Analysis: Application
Sea Segment in Military Actuators Market
The sea segment dominates the military actuators market, commanding approximately 48% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the extensive use of actuation systems across various naval applications, including steering gears, valve operations in different systems, and critical submarine controls for changing roll, pitch, and yaw movements. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by increasing investments in naval fleet modernization programs worldwide, particularly in response to growing maritime security concerns. Major naval powers are actively expanding their capabilities through the procurement of new vessels and upgrading existing naval systems, creating substantial demand for advanced actuation systems. The integration of sophisticated actuation technologies in modern naval vessels, from aircraft carriers to submarines, continues to drive the segment's market leadership.
Land Segment in Military Actuators Market
The land segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the military actuator market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 4% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by the increasing adoption of actuators in ground vehicles, including transport vehicles, armored vehicles with mounted weapon systems, battle tanks, and infantry fighting vehicles. The segment's growth is further propelled by the rising demand for advanced actuation systems in door mechanisms, window operations, seat adjustments, brake systems, throttle control, and weapons stabilization systems. The trend toward unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) and the integration of sophisticated actuator systems in modern military ground equipment is creating new growth opportunities. Additionally, the increasing focus on improving the mobility and combat effectiveness of land-based military platforms is driving innovations in actuator technologies, particularly in areas such as precision control and reliability under extreme conditions.
Remaining Segments in Application Segmentation
The air segment represents a crucial component of the military actuators market, playing a vital role in various aerospace applications. This segment encompasses the use of actuators in flight control systems, utility actuation, landing gear mechanisms, and weapons bay door operations across different types of military aircraft. The segment's significance is underscored by the critical nature of actuator systems in ensuring precise control and reliable operation of aircraft components. The continuous evolution of military aviation technology, including the development of next-generation fighter aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, maintains the segment's importance in the overall market landscape. The air segment's development is closely tied to advancements in actuator technology, particularly in areas such as electromechanical systems and precision control mechanisms.
Military Actuators Market Geography Segment Analysis
Military Actuators Market in North America
North America represents a crucial market for military actuators, driven by significant defense investments and technological advancements in both the United States and Canada. The region's market is characterized by extensive research and development activities, a strong presence of major actuator manufacturers, and continuous modernization of military equipment. Both countries are actively involved in upgrading their military capabilities through the procurement of advanced weapons, armored vehicles, fighter jets, and various military equipment that require sophisticated military actuator systems.
Military Actuators Market in United States
The United States dominates the North American military actuators market, holding approximately 89% market share in 2024. As the world's highest defense spender, the country maintains its leadership through substantial investments in military modernization programs. The U.S. military's focus spans across land, air, and sea applications, with particular emphasis on next-generation fighter jets and advanced weapons systems. The country's robust defense industrial base, supported by major manufacturers and ongoing military modernization initiatives, continues to drive innovation in military actuator technologies. The presence of leading defense contractors and extensive research facilities further strengthens the United States' position in the market.
Military Actuators Market Growth in United States
The United States is also experiencing the fastest growth in the North American region, with a projected CAGR of approximately 4% from 2024 to 2029. This growth is fueled by increasing defense budgets and the military's focus on developing advanced capabilities. The country's commitment to maintaining technological superiority in defense systems, particularly in areas such as unmanned systems and advanced aircraft, drives continuous innovation in military actuator technologies. The U.S. Department of Defense's emphasis on modernizing its military equipment and enhancing operational capabilities across all service branches further supports this growth trajectory.
Military Actuators Market in Europe
The European military actuators market demonstrates significant diversity, with major contributions from countries like Russia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. The region's market is shaped by ongoing military modernization programs, increasing defense cooperation among European nations, and growing investments in advanced military technologies. The European market benefits from strong aerospace and defense manufacturing capabilities, particularly in Western European countries, while Eastern European nations are increasingly focusing on military modernization initiatives.
Military Actuators Market in Russia
Russia emerges as the largest market in Europe, commanding approximately 63% of the regional market share in 2024. The country's dominant position is supported by its extensive military industrial complex and significant investments in defense capabilities. Russia's focus on developing and maintaining a modern military force, particularly in areas such as advanced aircraft, naval vessels, and land-based military equipment, drives substantial demand for military actuators. The country's indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities and ongoing military modernization programs further strengthen its market position.
Military Actuators Market Growth in Russia
Russia maintains its position as the fastest-growing market in Europe, with an expected CAGR of approximately 2% from 2024 to 2029. The country's growth is driven by its continued focus on military modernization and the development of advanced military equipment. Russia's emphasis on enhancing its military capabilities across all domains, including aerospace, naval, and land systems, supports sustained demand for advanced actuation systems. The country's strategic focus on military modernization and indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities continues to drive market expansion.
Military Actuators Market in Asia-Pacific
The Asia-Pacific region represents a dynamic market for military actuators, with significant contributions from China, Japan, India, and South Korea. The region's market is characterized by increasing defense budgets, growing military modernization initiatives, and a rising focus on indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities. Each country in the region has unique defense requirements and modernization programs, contributing to the diverse nature of the market. China leads the market size in the region, while Japan demonstrates the fastest growth rate among all countries in Asia-Pacific.
Military Actuators Market in China
China maintains its position as the largest market in the Asia-Pacific region, driven by its extensive military modernization programs and significant defense investments. The country's focus on developing advanced military aircraft, naval vessels, and land-based military equipment creates substantial demand for military actuators. China's emphasis on indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities and its strategic focus on military modernization across all domains reinforces its market leadership in the region.
Military Actuators Market Growth in Japan
Japan emerges as the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region, driven by its increasing focus on defense capabilities and military modernization initiatives. The country's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities, particularly in response to regional security challenges, supports market growth. Japan's emphasis on developing advanced defense technologies and its strategic focus on military modernization across various platforms continues to drive demand for sophisticated actuation systems.
Military Actuators Market in Latin America
The Latin American military actuators market is primarily driven by Brazil's defense modernization initiatives and growing regional security requirements. The market is characterized by increasing investments in military equipment modernization and the development of indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities. Brazil emerges as both the largest and fastest-growing market in the region, supported by its comprehensive military modernization programs and focus on enhancing its defense capabilities across air, land, and naval domains.
Military Actuators Market in Middle East & Africa
The Middle East & Africa region demonstrates strong potential in the military actuators market, with significant contributions from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey. The market is driven by increasing defense budgets, ongoing military modernization programs, and growing regional security requirements. Saudi Arabia represents the largest market in the region, while the United Arab Emirates shows the fastest growth rate, supported by their respective military modernization initiatives and strategic focus on enhancing defense capabilities.
Military Actuators Industry Overview
Top Companies in Military Actuators Market
The military actuators market is characterized by the strong presence of established aerospace and defense manufacturers who continuously invest in product innovation and technological advancement. Companies are focusing on developing electric actuator systems as alternatives to hydraulic systems, emphasizing improved precision, reliability, and force capabilities. The industry witnesses significant investment in research and development to create lightweight, energy-efficient solutions through advanced manufacturing technologies like 3D printing. Market leaders are expanding their global footprint through strategic partnerships and acquisitions, particularly in emerging markets across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Operational agility is demonstrated through the integration of sophisticated technologies, customization capabilities, and rapid response to changing military requirements, while maintaining compliance with stringent defense specifications and quality standards.
Consolidated Market Led By Global Conglomerates
The military actuators market exhibits a relatively consolidated structure dominated by large multinational corporations with diverse aerospace and defense portfolios. Companies like Raytheon Technologies, Parker-Hannifin, and Eaton Corporation maintain significant market presence through their extensive manufacturing capabilities, established relationships with defense forces, and comprehensive product offerings. These industry leaders leverage their broad technological expertise and financial resources to maintain competitive advantages, while specialized players like Moog Inc. and Curtiss-Wright focus on niche segments with high-performance requirements.
The market has witnessed notable merger and acquisition activities aimed at expanding technological capabilities and geographic reach. Major players are actively pursuing strategic acquisitions to strengthen their market position, as evidenced by Eaton's acquisition of Cobham Mission Systems and similar consolidation moves by other industry leaders. This trend of strategic consolidation enables companies to enhance their product portfolios, access new markets, and achieve economies of scale while maintaining technological leadership in specific actuator segments.
Innovation and Adaptability Drive Market Success
Success in the military actuators market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate and adapt to evolving military requirements. Incumbent players must focus on developing next-generation actuator systems that offer improved performance, reliability, and integration capabilities while reducing weight and maintenance requirements. Companies need to maintain strong relationships with defense agencies, invest in advanced manufacturing capabilities, and develop expertise in emerging technologies like electric actuation systems to maintain their market positions.
For contenders seeking to gain market share, specialization in specific actuator technologies or applications presents opportunities for growth. Success factors include developing proprietary technologies, establishing strategic partnerships with major defense contractors, and maintaining agility in responding to specific customer requirements. The high concentration of buyers in the defense sector and the significant threat of substitution from emerging actuator technologies necessitate continuous innovation and adaptation of business strategies. Additionally, companies must navigate complex regulatory requirements and certification processes while maintaining cost competitiveness and operational efficiency.
Military Actuators Market Leaders
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Raytheon Technologies Corporation
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Curtiss-Wright Corporation
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Moog Inc.
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Nook Industries, Inc.
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Kyntronics
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Military Actuators Market News
- In June 2021, Kytronics announced that the company joined the Rockwell Automation Technology Partner program, under which the company's SMART Electro-Hydraulic Actuators will be integrated into the program with Rockwell Automation servo motors, drives, and controls.
- In May 2021, Marotta Controls announced that the company's custom fin Control Actuation System (CAS) design project for Lockheed Martin received full component-level qualification to more than 20 military standards. Following the approval of the company's full component-level qualification, the project advanced from the development stage into the high-volume production stage. The CAS is an electromechanical actuation system for various applications such as tactical missiles, torpedoes, guided munitions and rockets, UAVs, and UUVs.
Military Actuators Industry Segmentation
Actuators are devices that convert energy into motion and are majorly used in moving or controlling mechanisms and systems. Actuators are operated by an external source of energy, typically electric current, hydraulic fluid pressure, or pneumatic pressure which is then converted into motion. Actuators perform two basic motions which are linear as well as rotary motions. Moreover, actuators are available in varying types, sizes, and power configurations depending upon the application they are being used for.
The Military Actuators Market is segmented based on type, system, application, and geography. By type, the market is segmented into Linear and Rotary. By system, the market is segmented into Electrical, Mechanical, Hydraulic, and Pneumatic. The market is also segmented based on application into Land, Air, and Sea. The report also covers the market sizes and forecasts for the Military Actuators Market across major regions. For each segment, the market sizing and forecasts have been done based on value (USD million). The market includes actuation systems deployed in missile systems, manned and unmanned platforms (across the land, air, and sea), and other weapon systems.
| Type | Linear | ||
| Rotary | |||
| System | Mechanical | ||
| Hydraulic | |||
| Elecrtical | |||
| Pneumatic | |||
| Application | Land | ||
| Air | |||
| Sea | |||
| Geography | North America | United States | |
| Canada | |||
| Europe | United Kingdom | ||
| Germany | |||
| France | |||
| Russia | |||
| Rest of Europe | |||
| Asia-Pacific | China | ||
| Japan | |||
| India | |||
| South Korea | |||
| Rest of Asia-Pacific | |||
| Latin America | Brazil | ||
| Rest of Latin America | |||
| Middle East and Africa | United Arab Emirates | ||
| Saudi Arabia | |||
| Egypt | |||
| Turkey | |||
| Rest of Middle East and Africa | |||
| Linear |
| Rotary |
| Mechanical |
| Hydraulic |
| Elecrtical |
| Pneumatic |
| Land |
| Air |
| Sea |
| North America | United States |
| Canada | |
| Europe | United Kingdom |
| Germany | |
| France | |
| Russia | |
| Rest of Europe | |
| Asia-Pacific | China |
| Japan | |
| India | |
| South Korea | |
| Rest of Asia-Pacific | |
| Latin America | Brazil |
| Rest of Latin America | |
| Middle East and Africa | United Arab Emirates |
| Saudi Arabia | |
| Egypt | |
| Turkey | |
| Rest of Middle East and Africa |
Military Actuators Market Research FAQs
What is the current Military Actuators Market size?
The Military Actuators Market is projected to register a CAGR of 3.14% during the forecast period (2025-2030)
Who are the key players in Military Actuators Market?
Raytheon Technologies Corporation, Curtiss-Wright Corporation, Moog Inc., Nook Industries, Inc. and Kyntronics are the major companies operating in the Military Actuators Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in Military Actuators Market?
Asia-Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2025-2030).
Which region has the biggest share in Military Actuators Market?
In 2025, the North America accounts for the largest market share in Military Actuators Market.
What years does this Military Actuators Market cover?
The report covers the Military Actuators Market historical market size for years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Military Actuators Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
