The CBRN defence market has experienced significant evolution, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions. Modern technologies like virtual reality, augmented reality, and the Internet of Things (IoT) have been introduced on the supply side of the market. Anticipated exponential growth is attributed to the growing demand for CBRN defence equipment across various industries, supported by increased global military spending.

The CBRN defence market includes major players Rheinmetall Defence, Thales Group, Smiths Group PLC, Teledyne Flir LLC, Bruker Corporation. These players have spread their business across various countries.

Chemical segment estimated to witness the largest share

Based on type, the market is segmented into chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosives. The chemical segment of the CBRN defence market is estimated to hold the dominant position in the market in 2023. CBRN defence relies on protective gear like hazmat suits, gas masks, gloves, and footwear. Detection of chemical agents is facilitated by portable devices and laboratory test instruments. The surge in global chemical warfare threats serves as a significant driver for the growth of this equipment segment.

Strong market for protective wearables

Based on equipment, the protective wearables segment is projected to lead the CBRN defence market during the forecast period. Protection against CBRN threats is provided by protective wearables, encompassing protective clothing, gas masks and hoods, escape devices, footwear, and gloves. Primary users of CBRN defence equipment are first responders in the police, fire safety department, and hazmat safety officers in commercial and civil sectors. Military users include CBRN response teams within the armed forces. The choice of CBRN protective wearables is determined by the level and nature of contamination. This segment is at the forefront due to the availability of fully integrated Mopp-4 suits, offering the highest chemical and biological threat protection. Its prominence is further underscored by wide-ranging industrial applications and technological advancements.

Defence & government are largest end users

Based on end use, the defence & government segment is estimated to account for the largest share of the CBRN defence during the forecast period. CBRN defence equipment within the defence sector encompasses protective wearables, detection tools, and decontamination systems. Homeland security personnel, including first responders in the police, fire safety departments, and hazmat safety officers, utilise this equipment. Notably, the defence & government segment in the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to experience the highest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) throughout the forecast period.

Asia Pacific bolsters defence capabilities

The Asia Pacific region is forecasted to lead the CBRN defence market in terms of market share from 2023 to 2028. The Asia Pacific region has witnessed a rise in terror attacks, prompting countries in the area to bolster their CBRN defence capabilities. Notably, the increased defence expenditures of nations such as India and China, coupled with the expansion of military commands in emerging economies, have spurred the demand for CBRN defence in this region. The growing need for CBRN defence solutions is a result of heightened investments by countries, focusing on the development and procurement of advanced CBRN defence measures for their armed forces, border protection, and biowarfare programmes.

The research finds that the primary strategy employed by key players to maintain their presence in the CBRN defence market is the establishment of contracts, complemented by the introduction of new products featuring advanced technologies. Additionally, numerous companies engaged in collaborations to establish dedicated research and development centres for advanced CBRN defence solutions. The market is largely controlled by a select group of globally recognised players, including Rheinmetall Defence, Thales Group, Smiths Group PLC, Teledyne Flir LLC, Bruker Corporation, among others.