Global Target Drones Market Size Study & Forecast, by Type, End-use Sector, End Use, Application, Mode of Operation, Payload Capacity, Build, Target Type, Engine Type, Speed and Regional Forecasts 2025-2035

The Global Target Drones Market is valued at approximately USD 5.19 billion in 2024 and is expected to expand at a compelling CAGR of 7.40% over the forecast period 2025-2035. As the theater of defense continues to modernize with emphasis on training realism and cost-efficient simulation, target drones have carved out a pivotal niche in military preparedness and tactical proficiency. These unmanned aerial, ground, and maritime systems are deployed extensively to simulate enemy threats during live-fire exercises and testing of weapon systems, thereby enabling armed forces to refine operational strategies and bolster combat-readiness in dynamic scenarios. Their cost-effectiveness, adaptability, and ability to mimic various aircraft profiles or radar signatures have made them indispensable across air defense units globally.

The upward trajectory in military expenditures, growing threat of asymmetric warfare, and rise in complex multi-domain combat strategies are compelling defense establishments to adopt next-generation target drones equipped with AI navigation, real-time telemetry, and reusable architectures. These drones, ranging from fixed-wing supersonic platforms to rotary and marine systems, play a critical role in validating anti-aircraft systems, missile guidance protocols, and combat rehearsals. Further, commercial sectors are embracing target drone technologies for sensor calibration, security drills, and testing counter-UAV systems, extending the market's relevance beyond the defense landscape. However, despite surging demand, procurement bottlenecks, regulatory delays, and cybersecurity concerns may impede growth unless adequately addressed through standardized frameworks and joint industry-government initiatives.

North America remains the dominant force in the target drones market, owing to the presence of leading defense contractors, heavy R&D investments, and frequent modernization programs by the U.S. Department of Defense. Europe is experiencing rising demand driven by NATO-standard military training protocols and collaborative defense exercises across the continent. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is witnessing the fastest growth, particularly in countries such as India, China, and South Korea, which are rapidly expanding their armed forces and integrating advanced drone systems for threat simulation and weapons testing. Additionally, strategic geopolitical developments in the Indo-Pacific and increasing focus on indigenization are reshaping procurement dynamics and enhancing market competitiveness.

Major market player included in this report are:

• Airbus S.A.S.
• Lockheed Martin Corporation
• Northrop Grumman Corporation
• Leonardo S.p.A.
• QinetiQ Group plc
• The Boeing Company
• Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.
• AeroTargets International, LLC
• Saab AB
• Turkish Aerospace Industries
• Denel Dynamics
• Air Affairs Australia Pty Ltd.
• Meggitt PLC
• BAE Systems
• China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation

Global Target Drones Market Report Scope:

• Historical Data - 2023, 2024
• Base Year for Estimation - 2024
• Forecast period - 2025-2035
• Report Coverage - Revenue forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth factors, and Trends
• Regional Scope - North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa
• Customization Scope - Free report customization (equivalent up to 8 analysts' working hours) with purchase. Addition or alteration to country, regional & segment scope*

The objective of the study is to define market sizes of different segments & countries in recent years and to forecast the values for the coming years. The report is designed to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the industry within the countries involved in the study. The report also provides detailed information about crucial aspects, such as driving factors and challenges, which will define the future growth of the market. Additionally, it incorporates potential opportunities in micro-markets for stakeholders to invest, along with a detailed analysis of the competitive landscape and product offerings of key players. The detailed segments and sub-segments of the market are explained below:

By Type:

• Fixed Wing
• Rotary Wing

By End-use Sector:

• Defense
• Commercial

By End Use:

• Aerial
• Ground
• Marine

By Application:

• Training
• Target and Decoy
• Reconnaissance
• Others

By Mode of Operation:

• Autonomous
• Remotely Piloted

By Payload Capacity:

• Light
• Medium
• Heavy

By Build:

• Newbuild
• Converted

By Target Type:

• Full Scale
• Subscale
• Free-Flying
• Towed

By Engine Type:

• IC Engine
• Jet Engine
• Others

By Speed:

• Subsonic
• Supersonic

By Region:

• North America
• U.S.
• Canada
• Europe
• UK
• Germany
• France
• Spain
• Italy
• Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Brazil
• Mexico
• Middle East & Africa
• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Rest of Middle East & Africa

Key Takeaways:

• Market Estimates & Forecast for 10 years from 2025 to 2035.
• Annualized revenues and regional level analysis for each market segment.
• Detailed analysis of geographical landscape with Country level analysis of major regions.
• Competitive landscape with information on major players in the market.
• Analysis of key business strategies and recommendations on future market approach.
• Analysis of competitive structure of the market.
• Demand side and supply side analysis of the market.