According to Fortune Business Insights™, the global military helicopter market was valued at USD 31.73 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 35.45 billion in 2025 to USD 42.25 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 2.5% over the forecast period. Rising cross-border tensions, evolving combat strategies, and growing investments in defense modernization programs globally are driving the demand for advanced military helicopters.
Military helicopters are essential assets for both combat and non-combat operations including troop transportation, border patrol, medical evacuation, disaster relief, and surveillance. The increasing need for agile, multipurpose rotorcraft has encouraged defense agencies to invest in technologically advanced platforms with greater payload capacity, better survivability, and superior range.
Information Source:
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/military-helicopters-market-111854
List of Key Companies Profiled in the Report
- Boeing Company (U.S.)
- Lockheed Martin Corporation (U.S.)
- Airbus Helicopters SAS (France)
- Leonardo Helicopters (Italy)
- Bell Helicopters (U.S.)
- Russian Helicopters (Rostec) (Russia)
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) (India)
- MD Helicopters (U.S.)
- Kawasaki Heavy Industries (Japan)
Segmentation Overview
By number of engines, the twin engine segment dominated the military helicopter market in 2024 due to its enhanced safety features, higher load capacity, and adaptability for both tactical and rescue missions. Based on maximum take-off weight (MTOW), helicopters in the 3,000 Kg to 9,000 Kg range captured the largest market share, primarily because of their widespread use in multi-role combat operations. In terms of point of sale, the new helicopter segment held a major portion of the market in 2024, driven by a surge in defense procurement contracts and a growing emphasis on fleet modernization across various countries.
Key Industry Developments: Military Helicopter Market
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March 2025 – Airbus unveiled its plan to set up MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) and training facilities for A400M aircraft in the UAE, integrating local firms such as EPI and Strata. This aligns with the company's strategy to localize operations, enhance supply chain strength, and support the UAE’s national capabilities.
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January 2025 – Lockheed Martin delivered 10 S-70i Black Hawk helicopters to the Philippines as part of a USD 624 million contract for 32 units. These helicopters will significantly expand the Philippines' capabilities in troop transport, disaster relief, and humanitarian operations.
Drivers and Restraints
Drivers:
- Modernization of Defense Fleets: Increasing military expenditures across major economies and growing emphasis on upgrading outdated rotary platforms is propelling the demand for new helicopters.
- Rising Geopolitical Conflicts: Escalating border tensions and international military alliances are boosting procurement of military helicopters for surveillance and combat missions.
- Multipurpose Utility: Enhanced operational versatility in combat, rescue, and logistics scenarios is making military helicopters indispensable in defense strategies.
Restraints:
- High Procurement and Maintenance Costs: The high initial investment and long-term maintenance expenses can hinder adoption, especially in developing regions.
- Supply Chain Delays: Raw material shortages and geopolitical supply disruptions may affect timely delivery of key helicopter components.
Regional Insights
North America dominated the global military helicopter market in 2024 due to the strong presence of major players such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin and continued government spending on advanced defense technologies.
Europe held the second-largest share, supported by NATO operations and increased cross-border tensions.
Asia Pacific is emerging as a key region with countries like India, China, and South Korea enhancing their air combat and disaster response capabilities.
Middle East & Africa and Latin America are witnessing moderate growth owing to regional security concerns and increasing adoption of helicopters for border surveillance and national defense.
The global military helicopter market is set to grow steadily over the next decade as nations continue to modernize their defense fleets and prepare for multi-domain warfare. Technological advancements, localization strategies, and international collaborations are expected to shape the market's trajectory.
