PUBLISHER: Aviation & Defense Market Reports (A&D) | PRODUCT CODE: 1927668
PUBLISHER: Aviation & Defense Market Reports (A&D) | PRODUCT CODE: 1927668
The Global Close in Weapon System market is estimated at USD 1.05 billion in 2026, projected to grow to USD 1.46 billion by 2036 at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.35% over the forecast period 2026-2036.

Introduction to Global Close In Weapon System (CIWS)
Close In Weapon Systems are defensive platforms designed to detect, track, and neutralize short-range threats such as missiles, aircraft, and small surface targets, protecting naval vessels from imminent attacks. CIWS integrate rapid-fire guns or missile interceptors with advanced radar and tracking systems to provide automated, immediate response against fast-moving threats. These systems serve as the final protective layer in layered defense architectures, complementing long-range missile systems and shipboard countermeasures. Modern CIWS platforms emphasize speed, accuracy, and automation, allowing minimal human intervention while ensuring high engagement success rates. Integration with ship combat management systems facilitates coordinated defense and optimized target prioritization. Technological developments in radar, sensor fusion, projectile design, and fire control algorithms have enhanced reaction time, targeting precision, and survivability. Nations invest in CIWS to strengthen naval defense against asymmetric threats, including anti-ship missiles, small boats, and low-flying aircraft. Continuous upgrades, modular configurations, and interoperability with broader naval networks ensure operational readiness. CIWS platforms are integral to modern naval strategy, providing reliable last-line defense, protecting critical assets, and maintaining maritime operational security against diverse short-range threats.
Technology Impact in Global Close In Weapon System (CIWS)
Technological innovation has significantly improved the capabilities of CIWS, enhancing accuracy, reaction speed, and defensive effectiveness. Radar and optical sensors provide rapid threat detection and tracking, while advanced fire control algorithms prioritize targets and optimize engagement. High-rate-of-fire guns and missile interceptors enable timely neutralization of incoming threats. Automation reduces operator workload and ensures consistent performance during high-pressure engagements. Integration with shipboard combat systems and networked defense architectures improves situational awareness and coordinated responses across multiple vessels. Stealth-resistant radar, multi-spectral sensors, and adaptive targeting enhance survivability against modern anti-ship threats. Materials innovation, including heat-resistant alloys and lightweight composites, supports high-speed operation and extended durability. Software-defined control systems allow upgrades and adaptability to evolving threats without extensive hardware modifications. The combination of sensor fusion, precision targeting, and rapid response ensures CIWS remain effective against missiles, aircraft, and fast-approaching surface vessels. Technology continues to drive improvements in reaction time, reliability, and operational integration, solidifying CIWS as a critical component of layered naval defense and modern maritime security strategies.
Key Drivers in Global Close In Weapon System (CIWS)
Global CIWS demand is driven by increasing naval threats, including advanced anti-ship missiles, fast attack craft, and low-altitude aerial attacks. Modern naval strategies emphasize layered defense, making CIWS essential for last-line protection of high-value assets. Technological progress in sensor systems, fire control, automation, and targeting accuracy enhances system effectiveness and supports fleet modernization. Naval fleet expansion, coastal defense priorities, and strategic maritime security initiatives encourage procurement and upgrades of CIWS platforms. Integration with combat management systems, networked operations, and multi-vessel coordination increases operational efficiency and situational awareness. Geopolitical tensions, asymmetric threats, and the need for rapid response capabilities reinforce demand for automated, high-speed defense systems. Budget allocation toward defense modernization, international collaboration, and indigenous production programs further drives adoption. Operational experience demonstrates the necessity of reliable last-resort defenses to safeguard vessels and critical maritime infrastructure. Collectively, threat evolution, technological advancement, strategic priorities, and operational requirements form the key drivers of CIWS growth worldwide.
Regional Trends in Global Close In Weapon System (CIWS)
Regional adoption of CIWS reflects naval priorities, threat perceptions, and technological capabilities. North America emphasizes highly automated, network-integrated systems designed for multi-domain fleet protection and high survivability. Europe focuses on modular, interoperable platforms compatible with allied naval forces, emphasizing precision, reliability, and adaptability. Asia-Pacific growth is driven by regional maritime disputes, fleet expansion, and modernization programs requiring last-line defensive solutions. Middle Eastern nations prioritize coastal protection, strategic asset defense, and rapid threat response, often acquiring CIWS through international partnerships. African and South American regions adopt cost-effective platforms to enhance coastal security, counter asymmetric threats, and protect vital infrastructure. Across regions, trends include integration with radar and sensor networks, software-driven upgrades, and enhanced reaction time against emerging threats. Regional differences in naval budgets, technological infrastructure, and threat perception shape procurement and deployment strategies. CIWS platforms remain a central component of modern naval defense, providing reliable last-resort protection for vessels and supporting global maritime security.
Raytheon, an RTX business, has secured a $205 million contract from the U.S. Navy to support the continued production of the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System. The agreement includes the delivery of system upgrades, conversions, overhauls, and associated equipment. Phalanx serves as the Navy's final layer of ship self-defense, providing critical protection for sailors against immediate threats. The award reflects the U.S. Navy's continued confidence in the system's effectiveness and reliability. The Phalanx CIWS is a high-rate, radar-guided, computer-controlled gun system designed to counter anti-ship missiles and other close-range threats that penetrate outer defense layers. It is deployed across all classes of U.S. Navy surface combatants and is also in service with the navies of 24 allied countries. The system's operational value was demonstrated in January 2024, when USS Gravely successfully intercepted a Houthi missile in the Red Sea moments before impact, safeguarding more than 300 crew members. Contract work will be performed in Louisville, Kentucky, and at other U.S. facilities through 2029.
By Platform
By Region
By Type
The 10-year close in weapon system market analysis would give a detailed overview of close in weapon system market growth, changing dynamics, technology adoption overviews and the overall market attractiveness is covered in this chapter.
This segment covers the top 10 technologies that is expected to impact this market and the possible implications these technologies would have on the overall market.
The 10-year close in weapon system forecast of this market is covered in detailed across the segments which are mentioned above.
The regional close in weapon system market trends, drivers, restraints and Challenges of this market, the Political, Economic, Social and Technology aspects are covered in this segment. The market forecast and scenario analysis across regions are also covered in detailed in this segment. The last part of the regional analysis includes profiling of the key companies, supplier landscape and company benchmarking.
North America
Drivers, Restraints and Challenges
PEST
Key Companies
Supplier Tier Landscape
Company Benchmarking
Europe
Middle East
APAC
South America
This chapter deals with the key defense programs in this market, it also covers the latest news and patents which have been filed in this market. Country level 10 year market forecast and scenario analysis are also covered in this chapter.
US
Defense Programs
Latest News
Patents
Current levels of technology maturation in this market
Canada
Italy
France
Germany
Netherlands
Belgium
Spain
Sweden
Greece
Australia
South Africa
India
China
Russia
South Korea
Japan
Malaysia
Singapore
Brazil
The opportunity matrix helps the readers understand the high opportunity segments in this market.
Hear from our experts their opinion of the possible outlook for this market.