PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 2005706
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 2005706
The global artillery ammunition market size was valued at USD 8.57 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow from USD 9.35 billion in 2026 to USD 14.76 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.88% during the forecast period. North America dominated the artillery ammunition market with a share of 33.50% in 2025, supported by strong defense spending and large-scale ammunition production initiatives.
Artillery ammunition refers to projectiles and shells designed for large-caliber artillery systems such as howitzers, mortars, and rocket artillery platforms. These rounds typically include a projectile shell, propellant charge, and fuse, enabling long-distance firing to suppress, neutralize, or destroy enemy targets. Artillery ammunition plays a critical role in modern warfare by delivering long-range firepower beyond the direct line of sight.
Leading defense companies such as Rheinmetall, BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin, Hanwha Aerospace, and General Dynamics are investing in advanced artillery ammunition systems to improve range, accuracy, and operational effectiveness.
Impact of the Russia-Ukraine War
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has significantly increased global demand for artillery ammunition. The war has highlighted the importance of long-range artillery systems and large stockpiles of reliable munitions for sustained combat operations.
Several countries have increased defense budgets and accelerated ammunition procurement to replenish depleted inventories. For example, in January 2024, NATO signed contracts worth USD 1.2 billion to purchase around 220,000 artillery shells as part of broader initiatives to strengthen defense supply chains.
Additionally, global allies are supporting Ukraine by expanding artillery shell production and transferring defense technologies. In August 2024, Norway approved the transfer of Nammo artillery shell technology to a Ukrainian company to facilitate local production of 155 mm artillery rounds. These developments have intensified investments in artillery ammunition manufacturing worldwide.
Artillery Ammunition Market Trends
One of the major trends in the artillery ammunition market is the growing adoption of precision-guided munitions (PGMs). Traditional artillery rounds follow fixed trajectories and offer limited accuracy, whereas precision-guided systems use advanced navigation technologies such as GPS, laser guidance, and inertial navigation systems to strike targets more accurately.
For instance, in December 2024, the U.S. Navy and General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems collaborated to extend the range of 155 mm precision-guided projectiles capable of reaching distances beyond 120 kilometers. These systems use foldable wings and onboard guidance technologies to enhance targeting precision.
Such advancements are encouraging military forces to integrate guided artillery rounds to reduce collateral damage and improve operational efficiency.
Market Drivers
The artillery ammunition market is primarily driven by increasing global defense expenditure and rising geopolitical tensions. Territorial disputes, regional conflicts, and military modernization programs are encouraging governments to strengthen their defense capabilities.
For example, in March 2024, the European Commission allocated USD 566.6 million under the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP) initiative to expand artillery shell manufacturing capacity. The program aims to increase the European Union's ability to produce 2 million artillery shells annually by the end of 2025.
In addition, many countries are investing in advanced artillery systems to enhance long-range strike capabilities and maintain strategic military superiority.
Market Restraints
Despite strong growth prospects, the artillery ammunition market faces challenges related to high development and production costs. Modern artillery rounds equipped with precision guidance technologies require advanced components and complex manufacturing processes.
These systems are significantly more expensive than conventional ammunition, making it difficult for countries with limited defense budgets to procure them in large quantities. Furthermore, maintaining large stockpiles of advanced artillery ammunition requires substantial financial resources.
Market Opportunities
The development of rocket-assisted and ramjet-propelled artillery ammunition presents significant growth opportunities in the market. These advanced propulsion technologies enable artillery shells to travel much longer distances while maintaining high accuracy.
For example, in May 2025, the defense company Nammo introduced a 155 mm artillery shell equipped with a solid-fuel ramjet engine, capable of reaching a range of 150 kilometers. Similarly, Tiberius Aerospace launched the Sceptre TRBM 155HG ramjet-powered artillery round, designed for long-range precision strike missions.
Such innovations are expected to redefine artillery warfare capabilities in the coming years.
Based on munitions technology, the conventional munitions segment held the largest share of 54.48% in 2026, as these rounds are widely used due to their cost-effectiveness and compatibility with existing artillery systems.
In terms of munition type, the high-explosive (HE) segment dominated the market with a share of 41.63% in 2026, as these shells are widely used for anti-personnel operations, area denial missions, and fortification destruction.
By caliber, medium artillery calibers (105-155 mm) accounted for the largest market share due to their widespread adoption across NATO and allied defense systems.
Regarding artillery systems, the howitzer segment led the market with a share of 54.24% in 2026, driven by increasing deployment in modern military operations for long-range indirect fire support.
North America dominated the global artillery ammunition market with a value of USD 2.87 billion in 2025, supported by rising military budgets and increased ammunition production capacity. The U.S. market is projected to reach USD 2.97 billion by 2026.
Europe is experiencing strong growth due to increased defense spending and initiatives to strengthen military readiness. The European Union has invested heavily in expanding ammunition manufacturing capacity to support regional defense operations.
The Asia Pacific region is also witnessing rapid growth due to rising geopolitical tensions and military modernization programs in countries such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea.
Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are experiencing moderate growth as governments focus on modernizing military equipment and strengthening defense capabilities.
Competitive Landscape
The artillery ammunition market is highly competitive, with major defense manufacturers investing in advanced technologies and production capabilities.
Leading companies include BAE Systems, Rheinmetall AG, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Hanwha Aerospace, General Dynamics, Nammo, Elbit Systems, and Thales Group. These companies focus on strategic partnerships, technological innovation, and production expansion to strengthen their global market presence.
For example, in January 2025, Rheinmetall secured a USD 23.90 million contract to supply thousands of 155 mm artillery shells, with plans to increase production capacity to 1.1 million shells annually by 2027.
Conclusion
The global artillery ammunition market is expected to grow steadily between 2025 and 2034, driven by increasing geopolitical tensions, rising defense budgets, and advancements in artillery technologies. With the market valued at USD 8.57 billion in 2025, projected to reach USD 9.35 billion in 2026, and expected to expand to USD 14.76 billion by 2034, the industry presents significant opportunities for defense manufacturers.
Segmentation By Munitions Technology
By Munitions Type
By Caliber
By Artillery System
By Operational Range
By Propulsion Type
By Region
Fi Asia Pacific Artillery Ammunition Market Value (USD Bn) By Operational Range, 2025 & 2034