The global anti-drone market size was valued at USD 2.45 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 3.10 billion in 2025 to USD 12.24 billion by 2032, exhibiting a robust CAGR of 21.62% during the forecast period. North America accounted for the largest share of the market in 2024, holding 31.43% of the total revenue.
Anti-drone technology—also referred to as counter-UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) or counter-UAV systems—includes detection, tracking, and neutralization solutions aimed at mitigating threats from unauthorized drones. These systems are increasingly deployed to safeguard critical infrastructure, military bases, airports, public venues, and national borders against drone-based threats such as surveillance, smuggling, and armed attacks.
Technological Advancements in Counter-Drone Systems
Modern militaries and defense agencies are increasingly adopting advanced technologies such as laser weapons, radar systems, AI-driven detection platforms, and electronic jammers. These systems improve accuracy, reduce response times, and provide scalable solutions to counter evolving drone threats effectively.
Rising Defense Spending and Security Concerns
Governments are allocating significant budgets toward drone defense. For instance, the U.S. Department of Defense plans to invest over USD 668 million in drone defense research by 2026, while India’s military has placed new orders worth USD 1.5 billion, including naval anti-drone systems, to strengthen its defense capabilities.
Private Investments and Startups
Startups such as Dedrone and Blighter Surveillance Systems are attracting venture capital funding by offering AI-powered and IoT-enabled counter-drone solutions. These innovations are expanding the commercial applications of anti-drone systems, creating a dynamic investment ecosystem that supports both defense and civilian sectors.
High Procurement Costs and Regulatory Challenges
Counter-drone systems are often expensive and subject to stringent government approval processes, which limits rapid adoption. Moreover, the absence of global standardization complicates deployments, especially as RF-based systems risk interfering with air traffic control and communication networks, restricting usage in airports and civilian airspace.
Evolving Drone Threats
The increasing use of low-cost commercial drones, such as the DJI Mavic 3, in conflict zones like the Russia-Ukraine war, highlights how easily accessible drones can be weaponized for attacks and surveillance. These developments present serious challenges to national security, underscoring the need for continuous innovation and scalable counter-drone solutions.