
Study Period | 2019 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 0.94 Billion |
Market Size (2030) | USD 1.02 Billion |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 1.70 % |
Fastest Growing Market | Middle East and Africa |
Largest Market | South East Asia |
Market Concentration | High |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market Analysis
The Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market size is estimated at USD 0.94 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 1.02 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 1.7% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The small arms and ammunition landscape in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa is being shaped by escalating regional security concerns and military modernization initiatives. According to SIPRI data from 2022, major regional powers have significantly increased their defense spending, with Saudi Arabia investing USD 75 billion, Israel allocating USD 23.4 billion, and India committing USD 81.4 billion to strengthen their defense capabilities. This substantial investment reflects the growing focus on enhancing military capabilities and upgrading existing military small arms across the region. The modernization efforts are particularly evident in the procurement of advanced small arms systems equipped with enhanced targeting capabilities, improved ergonomics, and integration with digital battlefield management systems.
Technological advancement in small arms manufacturing has become a defining trend across the region, with an emphasis on precision-guided systems and AI integration. In October 2022, Israel Weapon Industries and Adani Defense unveiled 'ARBEL', the first AI-based firing system, marking a significant milestone in next-generation small arms solutions. The integration of advanced materials, digital scopes, and smart targeting systems is transforming traditional firearms into networked combat platforms, enhancing both accuracy and battlefield effectiveness. These technological developments are particularly focused on reducing weapon weight, improving accuracy, and enabling better integration with soldier systems.
The regulatory landscape for civilian firearm ownership varies significantly across the region, influencing market dynamics beyond military applications. Singapore maintains one of the strictest control regimes with a civilian gun ownership rate of just 0.3 firearms per 100 people, while Thailand reports a notably higher rate of 15.6 firearms per 100 people. In February 2023, Israel implemented new policies allowing more civilians to carry firearms, particularly in response to security concerns, while the UAE has established structured frameworks for civilian ownership through regulated channels like the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX).
The industry is witnessing a significant shift toward indigenous production capabilities and international collaborations. PT Pindad of Indonesia demonstrates this trend with its annual production capacity of 50,000 weapons and 180 million munitions, serving both domestic and export markets across Southeast Asia and Africa. In February 2023, CARACAL, the Middle East's largest light weapons manufacturer, signed a manufacturing contract with India's ICOMM for local production of pistols and tactical rifles, exemplifying the growing trend of cross-border industrial partnerships. These collaborations are reshaping traditional supply chains and creating new regional manufacturing hubs for small arms and ammunition.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market Trends
Growing Demand for Small Arms to Drive Market Growth
The increasing military engagements globally have prompted armed forces to upgrade to more powerful small arms to address evolving combat requirements. With advancements in military armor becoming tougher to penetrate, armies are focusing on firearms that cause cyclical impacts, enabling more effective damage to adversaries. This technological evolution in warfare has led to significant procurement activities, as evidenced by Bangladesh Police's acquisition in September 2023 of 35 lakh shotgun bullets, 6 lakh blank cartridges, 3.22 lakh tear gas shells, and sound grenades, along with 30 pieces of sniper rifles and other essential items in their routine procurement for law enforcement firearms units.
The growing defense expenditure across the region further supports the increasing demand for small arms. Saudi Arabia, for instance, emerged as the fifth-largest defense spender globally in 2023, with a substantial budget of USD 75.5 billion, highlighting the priority given to military modernization. The current geopolitical scenario, particularly with unstable neighboring countries like Iraq to the north, Iran across the Persian Gulf, and Yemen to the south, has made defense ammunition purchases a priority for many nations in the region. This is reflected in the extensive deployment of advanced firearms such as the FN F2000 (5.56x45mm), Bushmaster M4-Type (5.56x45mm), FN Five-seven (5.7x28mm), and ORSIS T-5000 (7.62x51mm NATO) by military personnel across the region.
Growth in the Localization of Arms and Ammunition Manufacturing
The arms and ammunition manufacturing industry across the Middle East and Southeast Asia has witnessed significant growth in localization efforts, with various governments imposing local production and re-investment offsets as part of most mid-to-long-term military procurements. This trend is exemplified by strategic partnerships such as the November 2022 memorandum of understanding between Malaysia's Maruss Sdn Bhd and Indonesia's PT Pindad for arms manufacturing, which explores opportunities in contract manufacturing of small arms and components for defense ammunition. These initiatives demonstrate the region's commitment to developing domestic manufacturing capabilities and reducing dependence on imports.
The push for localization is particularly evident in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to increase local military equipment spending from the current 2% to an ambitious 50% by 2030. As part of this vision, the government established the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), a state-run arms manufacturing company that produces small-caliber ammunition, medium-caliber ammunition, artillery ammunition, and tank ammunition for both domestic armed forces and other countries in the Middle East and North Africa region. This strategic move towards local manufacturing is complemented by similar initiatives across the region, with countries like Indonesia demonstrating their manufacturing capabilities through significant orders, such as the July 2023 procurement of 1,857 riot guns with a contract value of USD 3.3 million, supporting the shooting sports sector.
Segment Analysis: Type
Arms Segment in Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market
The small arms segment dominates the Southeast Asia, Middle-East, and Africa small arms and defense ammunition market, commanding approximately 86% market share in 2024. This substantial market presence is driven by increasing military modernization programs across the region, particularly in countries like India, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. The segment encompasses various types of small arms, including handguns, rifles, machine guns, and shotguns, with rifles being the most widely procured category. The growing focus on enhancing defense capabilities, coupled with rising security concerns and cross-border tensions, continues to fuel the demand for small arms. Additionally, several countries in the region are actively pursuing the localization of arms manufacturing through various initiatives and partnerships with global manufacturers, further strengthening the segment's market position.

Ammunition Segment in Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market
The defense ammunition segment is experiencing the fastest growth in the market, projected to grow at approximately 2% CAGR during 2024-2029. This growth is primarily attributed to increasing defense budgets and the establishment of local ammunition manufacturing facilities across the region. Countries like India, UAE, and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in developing their indigenous ammunition production capabilities to reduce dependency on imports. The segment encompasses both lethal and non-lethal ammunition, with lethal ammunition witnessing higher demand due to military modernization programs. The rise in military engagements, counter-terrorism operations, and the need for regular training exercises are driving the demand for various types of ammunition. Furthermore, the focus on developing advanced ammunition with improved accuracy and effectiveness is expected to sustain this growth momentum.
Segment Analysis: End User
Military Segment in Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market
The military segment dominates the Southeast Asia, Middle-East, and Africa small arms and defense ammunition market, commanding approximately 93% market share in 2024. This substantial dominance is attributed to the increasing military engagements globally, which have prompted armed forces to upgrade to more powerful small arms to meet combat requirements. With armor worn by militaries becoming tougher to penetrate, armies are focusing on firearms that cause cyclical impacts, inflicting more damage on enemies. The segment's growth is further supported by several nations focusing on procuring a wide variety of the latest-generation small arms for their militaries, particularly in countries like India, Singapore, and Malaysia, where defense modernization programs are actively ongoing.
Law Enforcement Segment in Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market
The law enforcement firearms segment is projected to be the fastest-growing segment during 2024-2029, with an expected growth rate of approximately 3% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing focus on internal security measures and the rising number of protests and demonstrations across the region requiring crowd control measures. The segment's growth is further supported by reforms in arms schemes and increasing procurement of non-lethal weapons by law enforcement agencies. Various law enforcement agencies are also adopting advanced law enforcement firearms technologies and focusing on modernizing their existing arsenal to effectively contain security escalations while minimizing casualties.
Remaining Segments in End User Segmentation
The civil segment, while representing a smaller portion of the market, plays a crucial role in the overall small arms and ammunition ecosystem. This segment is heavily regulated across most countries in the Southeast Asia and Middle East region, with strict licensing requirements and restrictions on civilian ownership of firearms. The segment primarily caters to sports shooting, hunting, and personal defense applications, though the extent of civilian access varies significantly by country. Several nations in the region have implemented comprehensive frameworks for managing civilian firearm ownership, including mandatory training requirements and regular license renewals.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market Geography Segment Analysis
Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market in Southeast Asia
The Southeast Asian small arms and defense ammunition market demonstrates significant diversity across its key markets, including Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Each country in the region has distinct defense requirements and procurement strategies shaped by their specific security challenges and military modernization programs. Singapore maintains a strong focus on indigenous defense capabilities through companies like ST Engineering, while Indonesia emphasizes domestic production through PT Pindad. Malaysia has been actively pursuing defense partnerships and local manufacturing initiatives to enhance its military capabilities and reduce dependence on imports.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market in Indonesia
Indonesia emerges as the largest market for military small arms and ammunition in Southeast Asia, holding approximately 41% market share in 2024. The country's dominant position is supported by its large military personnel strength of about 1,080,000, including active, reserve, and paramilitary personnel. Indonesia's presidential office has outlined comprehensive plans for military modernization, demonstrating the country's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities. The nation has been expanding its indigenous manufacturing capabilities through companies like PT Pindad, which produces various types of weapons ranging from pistols to long-barreled weapons, along with different caliber ammunition.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market in Malaysia
Malaysia represents the fastest-growing market in Southeast Asia with a projected growth rate of approximately 2% during 2024-2029. The country's growth is driven by its ambitious plans to modernize its forces over the next decade as it strives to enhance its defense capabilities in meeting emerging security challenges, both regionally and globally. Malaysia has launched a national defense industry policy to boost efforts toward self-reliance, focusing on positioning itself as a producer of military platforms. The country has been actively engaging in partnerships with foreign industries for technology transfer and has established various initiatives to strengthen its domestic defense manufacturing capabilities.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market in the Middle East and Africa
The Middle East and Africa region represents a significant market for small arms and ammunition, characterized by diverse security challenges and ongoing military modernization programs. Countries in this region, including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman, have been actively investing in defense capabilities and indigenous production facilities. The region's security dynamics and geopolitical tensions have led to an increased focus on military preparedness and defense modernization initiatives.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market in Turkey
Turkey stands as the largest market for military small arms and ammunition in the Middle East and Africa region, commanding approximately 18% market share in 2024. The country has established itself as a significant player in the defense industry, with a strong focus on indigenous production capabilities. Turkey's defense industry has shown remarkable progress in developing and manufacturing various small arms and ammunition, supported by substantial investments in research and development. The country has also emerged as an important exporter of defense equipment, particularly in the small arms segment.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market in Israel
Israel demonstrates the highest growth potential in the Middle East and Africa region with a projected growth rate of approximately 2% during 2024-2029. The country's robust defense industrial base and significant investments in military modernization drive this growth. Israel's advanced technological capabilities and strong focus on research and development in the defense sector contribute to its market expansion. The presence of major defense manufacturers like Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) and Elbit Systems further strengthens the country's position in the small arms and ammunition market.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market in India
India represents a crucial market in the Southeast Asia and Middle East region, with its strategic position and significant defense requirements. The country's small arms and ammunition market is characterized by a strong push toward indigenous manufacturing under initiatives like 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'. The defense sector in India has witnessed significant transformations, particularly in the military small arms segment, with increased participation from private sector players and strategic partnerships with international manufacturers.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market - India's Market Leadership
India maintains its position as the largest market in the entire Southeast Asia and Middle East region, driven by its substantial defense budget and comprehensive military modernization programs. The country's defense manufacturing ecosystem has evolved significantly, with the establishment of new defense corridors and increased participation from private sector players. The restructuring of the Ordnance Factory Board into seven state-owned corporate entities has brought improved efficiency and competitiveness to the sector.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market - India's Growth Trajectory
India's market demonstrates strong growth potential, supported by increasing defense expenditure and rising procurement of advanced small arms and ammunition for civilian and military applications. The country's focus on developing indigenous manufacturing capabilities, coupled with strategic partnerships with international defense manufacturers, positions it for sustained growth. The government's emphasis on defense exports and the establishment of defense industrial corridors further strengthen India's position in the regional market.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Industry Overview
Top Companies in Southeast Asia, Middle-East and Africa Small Arms and Ammunition Market
The market features a mix of established defense contractors and specialized small arms and defense ammunition manufacturers competing for military and civilian contracts. Companies are increasingly focusing on developing next-generation small arms and ammunition with enhanced capabilities, such as improved accuracy, reduced weight, and better storage characteristics. Key strategic initiatives include investments in R&D for advanced materials and manufacturing processes, particularly 3D printing technology for ammunition components. Operational excellence is being pursued through the modernization of production facilities and the adoption of automated manufacturing systems. Market leaders are expanding their presence through partnerships with local manufacturers, especially in countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Turkey, while also focusing on developing indigenous capabilities to meet the localization requirements of various governments in the region.
Market Structure Reflects Regional Defense Priorities
The competitive landscape is characterized by a combination of global defense conglomerates and regional specialists, with state-owned enterprises playing a significant role in many countries. Companies like Singapore Technologies Engineering, Elbit Systems, and Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) maintain dominant positions through their integrated defense capabilities and strong government relationships. The market shows moderate consolidation in established markets like Israel and Singapore, while emerging markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East are seeing increased fragmentation as new local players enter the space.
The industry is witnessing increased merger and acquisition activity as companies seek to expand their technological capabilities and geographic reach. Regional players are actively pursuing partnerships with international firms to access advanced technologies and manufacturing expertise. This trend is particularly evident in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where government initiatives to develop domestic defense industries are driving consolidation and strategic partnerships. Local manufacturers are gradually gaining market share through government support and investment in modern production facilities.
Innovation and Localization Drive Future Success
Success in this market increasingly depends on companies' ability to balance technological innovation with local manufacturing capabilities. Incumbent players must focus on developing advanced defense ammunition technologies while maintaining strong relationships with military and law enforcement agencies. Companies need to invest in research and development to create products that meet evolving battlefield requirements while also addressing environmental concerns. The ability to establish local production facilities and transfer technology to meet offset requirements is becoming increasingly crucial for market success.
Market contenders can gain ground by focusing on specialized market segments and developing niche capabilities in areas like smart ammunition or specialized training rounds. The high concentration of military and law enforcement customers necessitates long-term relationship building and consistent product quality. Regulatory requirements, particularly around export controls and local content requirements, continue to shape market dynamics. Companies must also address the growing demand for environmentally friendly ammunition while maintaining performance standards. The threat of substitution remains relatively low due to the specialized nature of the products, but companies must stay ahead of technological advances in non-lethal weapons and alternative defense systems, including light weapons.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market Leaders
-
Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd
-
Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd.
-
PT Pindad
-
SME Ordnance Sdn Bhd Company (SMEO)
-
Elbit Systems Ltd.
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market News
- September 2023: ST Engineering and Edge Group inked a collaboration pact focusing on sharing solutions, services, and capabilities. The partnership zeroes in on key areas like small caliber ammunition, future soldier systems, unmanned technologies, and training and simulation.
- March 2023: PT Pindad rolled out the AM1, a fresh variant in assault rifles. Teaming up with South Korea's EOS-T, a leading optical sight company, PT Pindad crafted the AM1, boasting a NATO-standard caliber of 5.56 mm x 45 mm. The AM1 features a telescopic buttstock tube, allowing users to customize the stock's length.
Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET DYNAMICS
- 4.1 Market Overview
- 4.2 Market Drivers
- 4.3 Market Restraints
-
4.4 Industry Attractiveness-Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.4.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
- 4.4.3 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.4.4 Threat of Substitute Products
- 4.4.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION
-
5.1 Type
- 5.1.1 Arms
- 5.1.1.1 Handguns
- 5.1.1.2 Rifles
- 5.1.1.3 Machine Guns
- 5.1.1.4 Shotguns
- 5.1.2 Ammunition
- 5.1.2.1 Lethal
- 5.1.2.2 Non-lethal
-
5.2 End User
- 5.2.1 Civil
- 5.2.2 Law Enforcement
- 5.2.3 Military
-
5.3 Geography
- 5.3.1 Southeast Asia
- 5.3.1.1 Singapore
- 5.3.1.2 Malaysia
- 5.3.1.3 Indonesia
- 5.3.1.4 Rest of Southeast Asia
- 5.3.2 Middle East and Africa
- 5.3.2.1 Saudi Arabia
- 5.3.2.2 United Arab Emirates
- 5.3.2.3 Turkey
- 5.3.2.4 Israel
- 5.3.2.5 Bahrain
- 5.3.2.6 Kuwait
- 5.3.2.7 Qatar
- 5.3.2.8 Oman
- 5.3.2.9 Rest of Middle East and Africa
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Vendor Market Share
-
6.2 Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd
- 6.2.2 PT Pindad
- 6.2.3 ME Ordnance Sdn Bhd Company (smeo)
- 6.2.4 Elbit Systems Ltd
- 6.2.5 Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI)
- 6.2.6 Oman Munition Production Company (OMPC)
- 6.2.7 Jorammo
- 6.2.8 Kenya Ordnance Factories Corporation
- 6.2.9 Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria
- 6.2.10 Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Industry Segmentation
Small caliber ammunition encompasses a variety of rounds, all under .50 caliber (12.7 mm), such as 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm, 9 mm, 10- and 12-gauge, .22 caliber, .30 caliber, .38 caliber, .45 caliber, and .300 Winchester Magnum (WinMag). The study encompasses both lethal and non-lethal ammunition and firearms, catering to military forces, law enforcement, civil service bodies, protection details for VIPs, and private firms, all focusing on ammunition up to 12.7 mm (.50 caliber).
The small arms and ammunition market in Southeast Asia and the Middle East and Africa is segmented by type and end user. By type, the market is segmented into arms and ammunition. By end user, the market is classified into civil, law enforcement, and military. The report also offers the market sizes and forecasts for eleven countries across the regions. For each segment, the market sizing and forecasts were made based on value (USD).
Type | Arms | Handguns | |
Rifles | |||
Machine Guns | |||
Shotguns | |||
Ammunition | Lethal | ||
Non-lethal | |||
End User | Civil | ||
Law Enforcement | |||
Military | |||
Geography | Southeast Asia | Singapore | |
Malaysia | |||
Indonesia | |||
Rest of Southeast Asia | |||
Middle East and Africa | Saudi Arabia | ||
United Arab Emirates | |||
Turkey | |||
Israel | |||
Bahrain | |||
Kuwait | |||
Qatar | |||
Oman | |||
Rest of Middle East and Africa |
Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market Research FAQs
How big is the Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market?
The Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market size is expected to reach USD 0.94 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 1.7% to reach USD 1.02 billion by 2030.
What is the current Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market size?
In 2025, the Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market size is expected to reach USD 0.94 billion.
Who are the key players in Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market?
Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd, Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd., PT Pindad, SME Ordnance Sdn Bhd Company (SMEO) and Elbit Systems Ltd. are the major companies operating in the Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market?
Middle East and Africa is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2025-2030).
Which region has the biggest share in Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market?
In 2025, the South East Asia accounts for the largest market share in Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market.
What years does this Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market size was estimated at USD 0.92 billion. The report covers the Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
Our Best Selling Reports
Southeast Asia, Middle-East And Africa Small Arms And Ammunition Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the small arms and ammunition industry. We leverage decades of expertise in defense sector research. Our latest report examines the evolving landscape of personal defense weapons, light weapons, and defense ammunition across Southeast Asia, the Middle-East, and Africa. The analysis covers various segments, including military small arms, law enforcement firearms, and equipment used in shooting sports. It offers detailed insights into manufacturing capabilities, technological innovations, and regulatory frameworks.
Stakeholders gain valuable intelligence through our easily downloadable report PDF. It offers an in-depth analysis of personal defense equipment trends and market dynamics. The report delivers actionable insights for manufacturers, suppliers, and investors. It covers emerging opportunities across military, law enforcement, and civilian sectors. Our expert analysis helps businesses identify growth opportunities, understand regulatory compliance requirements, and develop strategic initiatives based on comprehensive regional data and industry expertise.