Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, and Russia-Ukraine War Impact, By Type (Fixed and Locomotive), By Range (10-100 Km and 100-300 Km), By Component (Command and Control System, Launch System, Radar System, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global multi-barrel rocket launcher market size was valued at USD 2.39 billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow from USD 2.46 billion in 2024 to USD 3.40 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.11% during the forecast period. Asia Pacific dominated the multi-barrel rocket launcher market with a market share of 52.72% in 2023.

A multiple rocket launcher, also known as Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), is a type of rocket artillery system that contains multiple launchers mounted on a single platform and fires long range rockets in an extremely similar manner to a volley gun. The rocket is self-propelled in flight and holds capabilities different from conventional artillery shells, such as longer effective range, lower recoil, and often significantly higher payloads than similarly sized artillery platforms or even transporting some nuclear warheads and capable of going with a range of 180 km or beyond that.

The market is expected to gain traction in the forecast period owing to launches and technical advancements. Numerous technological advancements in the rocket launcher components and system have led to an additional recognition of launchers in the armies globally. Additionally, increasing global demand for strengthening ground forces is expected to drive the market growth during the forecast period.

RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR IMPACT

Increased Demand for New Age Fighting Weapons in the Russia-Ukraine War Drives Aid Market Growth

The fierce war between Russia and Ukraine created a positive market outlook in 2022. The war has augmented demand for multiple rocket launcher systems pertaining to the advanced defense systems that ensure maximum support. Numerous nations supporting either side are providing their allies with assistance and support in warfare, also by sending appropriate rocket launcher systems.

• For instance, in June 2022, the U.S. Department of Defense unveiled the inclusion of four M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, worth USD 700 million, to be sent along with the package to Ukraine, fighting the war. This initiative was a part of the president's latest troop withdrawal plan for Ukraine.


• Additionally, in June 2023, Russia announced the development of a new artillery system for a 300 mm multi-rocket launcher. The new development is to be called Sarma and is expected to exhibit increased mobility and will also be able to launch guided high-precision ammunition. The Sarma system will be equipped with an improved automated fire control and guidance system.

The war has greatly impacted the global market, as increased conflict situations lead to higher overall government spending on military equipment procurement due to rising Cold War and cross-border tension situations. Furthermore, these factors are expected to boost market growth in the forecast period.

Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher Market Trends

Technical Advancements in the Artillery Systems to Propel Market Expansion

There has been a recent stir to change the way conventional military launchers work, which has spawned the interest of most OEMs and militaries to invest in technologically advanced artillery systems. Developments, such as launcher mechanical systems and improved electro-mechanic components and connections, are the latest trends in the market. Due to terrain-related disparities in the battlefield, the launcher must be able to contact back to the base.  For instance, in August 2022, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) unveiled a successful trial for the enhanced range-Pinaka rocket launcher. The tests were conducted in Balasore and Pokhran. Additionally, there has been a recent surge in position and precision-aided multi-rocket launcher systems, boosting the overall market growth.

• In October 2023, Ukraine-based Artillery HIMARS unveiled the successful targeting of multiple rocket launchers and an ammunition depot. A unit of artillery brigade also used UAV technology to detect enemy artillery. Additionally, due to modernization, it took minimal time to aim the launcher at the target and minimize the flight time of the rocket to 2 minutes.

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Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher Market Growth Factors

Artillery Modernization Programs and New System Procurement to Fuel Market Development

With growing applications and a number of products available in the market, there has been a surge in the military modernization of older weapons fleets to adjust and refurbish them to meet the demand for modern-day weapon systems. These efforts address gaps in the fleet's current sustainable capabilities and enable future adoption of systems and technologies to increase the lethality and survivability of defense equipment or systems. Many times, the modernization and customization of MRLs are done by the OEMs themselves as a requirement by nations; however, countries also engage in military modernization practices. Additionally, a surge in metal alloys used in military modernization and the involvement of authorities and governments globally are factors driving the supply of modern weapon systems in militaries across the globe. Furthermore, new systems procurement will boost the adoption of multi-barrel rocket launchers during the forecast period.

• For instance, in May 2023, a U.S.-based OEM, Lockheed Martin Corporation, unveiled artillery fire support specialists to upgrade the U.S. Army's Multiple Launch Rocket System to the field artillery version of the M270A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System. The contract was closed at USD 194.1 million.


• In December 2023, the Defense Ministry of India unveiled approval for acquiring 6,400 multiple rocket launchers, Pinaka, to be deployed on the borders of India-Pakistan and India-China.

Increasing Cross-Border Tensions and Raging Civil War Situations to Enhance Market Progress

With ongoing global war conditions and budding cross-border tensions, there has been a rise in the need for nations to strengthen their military capabilities. Growing civil war-like situations among nations are leading to a rise in demand for appropriate military infrastructure in the countries of the world. Additionally, changing warfare activities such as budding guerilla warfare have increased demand for high-capacity weapons with a wider coverage area that can maximize the damage. For instance, in April 2021, China deployed a deterrent long-range rocket launcher to India's borders. The rocket launcher is said to have precision strike capability, and the decision was made following disagreements between the two countries regarding their disputed borders.

Multi-barrel rocket launchers hold the capacity to launch numerous guided and unguided rockets at a rapid pace with precision to counter the traditional system for firing rockets. The ability to cover the maximum area with precision has boosted the demand for Multiple Launch Rocket Systems. Therefore, countries globally are providing one another with the latest MRLS.

• For instance, in February 2023, The Pentagon announced that the U.S. State Department had approved the sale of long-range missiles, rockets, and launchers to Poland in a deal worth USD 10 billion. Poland has embarked on a spending spree to modernize its military while also donating older weapons to neighboring Ukraine to fend off a Russian invasion.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

High Maintenance Cost and Target Accuracy to Limit Market Growth

Despite a positive market outlook, the multi-barrel rocket launcher market growth is expected to be somehow affected due to the target accuracy of a multi-barrel launcher. Since multiple rockets are launched from the MRL, at times, the target accuracy is not as high as that of a regular combat vehicle or other artillery such as tanks. Due to targets with difficult geographies, it is sometimes challenging to transport or aim at the target, making the whole system less desirable than other artillery systems. The advanced multi-barrel launchers need regular testing and calibration to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the system. Additionally, the complex mechanism consists of complicated components, and the maintenance of the MBRL requires a skilled workforce, thereby contributing to the high maintenance cost.

Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher Market Segmentation Analysis

By Type Analysis

Wheeled Segment Dominates Owing to Rising Preference for Wheeled MRLs Led by Growing War Conditions

 Based on type, the market is divided into fixed and locomotive.

The locomotive segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023 and is predicted to grow at the highest CAGR in the forecast period, owing to a wide application of the wheeled type of rocket launchers. Additionally, wheeled MRLs are generally preferred over and above track. Due to ease of transportation, the wheeled launchers can be transported anywhere. Considering the ongoing war conditions globally, this proves to be of great help. Additionally, wheeled platforms are more cost-efficient and fuel-efficient, contributing to overall logistical efficiency. Wheeled multi-barrel rocket launchers are also easier to maintain compared to their tracked counterparts, resulting in reduced downtime, lower operational cost, and easier maintenance.

The fixed segment is estimated to grow at a substantial CAGR owing to a growth in high-ranging rocket launchers. Various features offered by the type, such as improved stability, firepower, mobility and terrain versatility, prove to be of utmost importance in rigid terrain missions. Additionally, the tracked type offers stability during firing, contributing to increased overall accuracy. Therefore, the tracked segment is crucial for attaining precision targeting and is expected to exhibit remarkable growth in the forecast period.

• For instance, in July 2023, Cheaper and more readily available, the K239 Chunmoo MLRS from Korea gave HIMARS a test run. While the Royal Australian Army decided to buy the US-made HIMARS earlier in 2023, military officials appeared impressed with its Asian alternative – South Korea's Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher following its performance during exercise Talisman Saber in Australia.

By Range Analysis

100-300 Km Segment Leads with Increased Demand and Heavy Manufacturing

By range, the market is segmented into 10-100 km and 100-300 km.

The 100-300 km segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023 and is expected to grow at the highest CAGR in the forecast period. The launchers with 100-300 km range are being readily used and procured due to their wider range and, therefore, are being preferred by militaries globally. Additionally, long-range MRLs are highly preferred by defense forces globally to counter insurgencies. Developing nations and nations with raging war conditions and terrorism are major procurers of this system to neutralize the conditions.

• For instance, in August 2023, The U.S. government approved the upgrade of Finland's M270 multiple-launch rocket system. The contract was signed worth USD 395 million.

The 10-100 km segment accounted for a significant market share in 2022, owing to a rise in deliveries of 10-100 km ranged rocket launchers for short-range warfare applications. The 10-100 km rocket launchers can be deployed closer to the target to ensure the maximum damage attack or neutralize the target. Additionally, the 10-100 km segment provides better access and accuracy of precision fires, thereby offering a higher probability of killing and a reduced logistical footprint.

By Component Analysis

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Launch System Segment Primed for Expansion with Advancements in Unmanned and Remote Operations

Based on component, the market is divided into command and control system, launch system, radar system, and others.

The launch system segment accounted for the largest multi-barrel rocket launcher market share in 2023 due to the application of the launch system in a rocket launcher. The launch system includes major parts of the launcher, pods, and other equipment, such as the mechatronics and dealing with multiple rocket launches. Technological advancements in multiple interval rocket launches are boosting growth in the market; therefore, the segment is expected to grow due to budding technological advancements in launching systems where MRLs will be unmanned or can be operated remotely. Additionally, numerous OEMs are being contracted to provide advanced launch systems.

• For instance, in July 2022, Lockheed Martin Corporation, a U.S. OEM, unveiled the delivery of the first M270A2 multiple-launch rocket system to the U.S. military. The MLRS is a modernized M270 with new engines and improved systems, including the Common Fire Control System “CFCS.” The upgrade makes the system compatible with future munitions such as long-range GMLRS and Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM).

The radar system segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR owing to the growing technological advancements related to radar systems.  The radar system includes radars, sensors, Communication, Navigation and Surveillance, and Command and Control (GPS) components. Technological advancements such as aerial target engagement and missile guidance in radars are expected to boost demand. Therefore, the market is predicted to foresee a high growth in the forecast period due to high and frequent advances in radar and communications technology. Additionally, rising applications of unmanned systems have proliferated the need for advanced tracking systems to diminish potential threats, thereby growing the market for the radar system segment during the forecast period.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

The global multi-barrel rocket launcher market is studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.

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The Asia Pacific region accounted for the largest market share in 2023 and is predicted to grow at the highest CAGR due to the rapid growth in new procurement and modernization programs in the forecast period due to the demand for high accuracy precision strikes for Suppression of Enemy Air Defense Systems (SEAD) and raging cross-border tension among countries in the region. There has been a rise in demand for appropriate defense infrastructure, leading to an increase in the number of defense manufacturers in the region as well as spending for military equipment, procurement from other regions.

• For instance, in August 2023, Hanwha Defense delivered Poland's first K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system, “MLRS,” to Poland. The handover is part of a USD 3.55 billion contract announced by the Polish Defense Minister in 2022 to find "hundreds" of MLRS to respond to the ongoing conflict in East Europe.

North America is the second-largest region by market share in 2023 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR owing to a high number of military equipment and services acquisitions in the U.S. Army. The presence of prominent market players in the region also adds to the growing region. Companies, such as Lockheed Martin Corporation and Northrop Grumman Corporation, readily produce and supply multiple rocket launchers, primarily to the U.S. Army and other nations.

• For instance, in November 2023, Lockheed Martin Corporation won a contract of 5 years to supply MLRS Munitions Engineering Services to the U.S. Army. The contract is worth USD 199 million.

Europe accounted for a significant market share in 2023. The region's large market share is due to the growing purchasing power of nations and emerging key players. The growing war conditions of the Russia-Ukraine war drive the overall regional market growth during the forecast period. Growing security concerns in Europe, such as potential conflicts and cross-border tension, drive the need for a robust and adaptable military capability. Additionally, the presence of sophisticated military equipment, such as multiple rocket launchers, serves as a great deterrent against potential aggressors, thereby proving to be a great contributor to regional stability. While nations around the region collaborate on partnerships for training and development of military and defense projects, it can lead to positive growth in developing multi-barrel rocket launchers in the region.

• For instance, in October 2023, the land forces of Germany unveiled their plan to replace the MARS II rocket artillery system given to Ukraine, along with multiple rocket launchers provided by Israel.

Latin America is expected to gain traction in the forecast period owing to a growth in cross-border tension among nations. Due to the cross-border tensions, governments of the region are heavily investing in acquiring and procuring advanced military equipment such as multi-barrel rocket launchers. Furthermore, the emergence of major market players such as Avibras Industria Aeroespacial S.A. is expected to boost the market in the forecast period.

• For instance, in October 2023, Avibras Industria Aerospecial S.A, a Brazil-based Multi Barrel rocket launcher OEM, partnered with the Spanish firm New Technologies Global Systems for the contract to acquire multiple mobile rocket launchers for Spain’s military.

The Middle East is expected to experience a significant boost in the acquisition of military equipment due to growing government initiatives about neighboring countries' geopolitical issues. Additionally, to strengthen their military capabilities, the Middle Eastern countries readily invest in military procurement and modernization and deliver advanced systems to other countries.

• For instance, in November 2022, Roketsan, a Turkey-based missile OEM, unveiled a contract with Indonesia to supply Khan Missiles and a multilayer air defense system. The Khan ready to fire missile is capable of launching from a multi-barrel rocket launcher.

Africa is expected to grow during the forecast period due to growing economies and globalization. Multi-barrel rocket launchers in the region are expected to flourish due to the entrance of global market players. This, in turn, is expected to boost market growth during the forecast period.

• For instance, in December 2023, The Egyptian Ministry of Military Production launched Thunder 200, a multi-barrel rocket launcher. The MRL was launched at the EDEX international expo held in Cairo. The said MRL is the ministry’s domestically manufactured rocket launcher.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Established Companies Embrace Partnerships and Acquisitions for Sustained Market Spot

The multi-barrel rocket launcher market analysis is consolidated, with ample number of domestic and international companies working in this sector. Leading companies are competitive to co-exist with new and regional service providers. Prominent organizations in the sector are Lockheed Martin Corporation, BAE Systems, Hanwha Defense, and other companies. Lockheed Martin Corporation is anticipated to be the leading firm due to its growth strategies and global presence. Other leading companies in the market, which include Elbit Systems Ltd., Roketsan A.S., Larsen & Toubro Limited, and TATA Power, among others, focus on acquisitions, partnerships, and new product launches to cement their position in the market.

List of Top Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher Companies:

• Lockheed Martin Corporation (U.S.)


• Hanwha Defense Co. Ltd. (South Korea)


• Northrop Grumman Corporation (U.S.)


• BAE Systems plc (U.K.)


• Diehl Defense GmbH & Co. KG (Germany)


• Elbit Systems Ltd. (U.K.)


• China North Industries Group Corporation Limited (NORINCO) (China)


• Tata Power Company Ltd. (India)


• Roketsan Roket Sanayii ve Ticaret A.S. (Turkey)


• Avibras Industria Aeroespacial S.A. (Brazil)


• Larsen & Toubro Limited (India)


• Arnold Defense & Electronics (U.S.)


• NPO Splav (Russia)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• May 2023 – The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin Corporation more than USD 800 million contract for HIMARS and M270 launchers. The agreements on the high mobility artillery rocket system “HIMARS” and the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) launch vehicle.


• January 2023 – The Myanmar Army unveiled the MAM-03 multiple rocket launcher (MRL) and the MMT -40 light tank to celebrate India’s 75th anniversary of independence. According to video footage broadcast by state broadcaster Myanmar Radio and Television (MRTV), MAM-03 and MMT-40 were observed participating in the Independence Day parade. Both capabilities were developed by Myanmar's Directorate of Defense Industry (DDI).


• June 2022 – Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Larsen and Toubro (L&T) jointly handed over the 100th Akash Air Force Launcher (AAFL) to the Indian Air Force, developed jointly with the Indian Air Force Research and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The occasion was marked by BHVS Narayana Murthy, DRDO's Director of General Missile Systems and Strategy (DG-MSS) at TASL's Vemagal facility in Karnataka.


• April 2023 – The US Army awarded Lockheed Martin Corporation a USD 615 million full production contract to produce additional HIMARS launch vehicles and related equipment. This purchase will expand the U.S. Army's launch vehicle fleet and fulfill orders from international partners, delivering additional precision-fire capabilities to our customers.


• June 2022 – Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall are working together to supply Germany and its neighbors with a European-made rocket launcher based on Lockheed's High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). The GMARS system is designed as a wheeled artillery system to replace Berlin's old MARS 2 multiple-launch rocket system.

REPORT COVERAGE

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The market research report covered detailed information on the market and focuses on leading companies, service types, and leading applications. Besides this, the report offers insights into the market trends and competitive landscape and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the above factors, several factors have contributed to the global market sizing in recent years.

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