Market Outlook

The Mortar System market was valued at USD 1,007 Million in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 1,776 Million by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8% from 2024 to 2030. The Global Mortar System Market includes a variety of lightweight, indirect fire weapon systems that are designed for quick deployment and high-angle fire support. These systems are commonly used in military and paramilitary operations. Typically, they consist of components like tubes, base plates, bipods, sighting systems, and fire control units. Mortar systems provide tactical flexibility for infantry units due to their portability, easy handling, and effectiveness in challenging terrains like mountains or urban environments.

This market is expanding due to a number of causes, such as increased geopolitical tensions that call for more sophisticated tactical weapons and rising defence spending globally, particularly in emerging nations. The need for automated, precision-guided mortar weapons with increased mobility and range is being driven by the military's increasing emphasis on modernisation. Furthermore, mortars are becoming more efficient and desirable to military procurement programs because to technological improvements such as improved munitions, integration with drones for improved target acquisition, and digital fire control systems.

However, the market does face some significant challenges. Budget limitations in certain areas can restrict investments in new mortar technologies. Additionally, strict international arms regulations and export restrictions may impede market growth, particularly in politically sensitive regions. There's also rising concern over the humanitarian impact and potential collateral damage caused by explosive weapons in populated areas, which could influence procurement decisions. Lastly, the need for extensive training and logistical support to operate and maintain these advanced mortar systems can be a challenge for some armed forces. Despite these obstacles, the market is expected to grow steadily as countries continue to seek adaptable, mobile, and cost-effective firepower solutions for modern combat scenarios.

Key Insights

North America accounted for the largest share of the Mortar System market in 2024 in terms of production. North America leads the global mortar system market, driven by substantial defense budgets, cutting-edge military modernization efforts, and ongoing investments to improve battlefield capabilities. The U.S. Army is particularly focused on enhancing its indirect fire systems and ramping up the procurement of advanced mortar systems to bolster combat readiness, which is fueling demand in the region.

Moreover, the presence of major defense contractors and continuous research and development activities are pushing technological innovations in mortar systems. The region also enjoys strong government backing, regular military training exercises, and international defense collaborations, all of which further increase the adoption and deployment of modern mortar systems among North American armed forces.

In terms of Caliber, the light mortar systems accounted for a major share in 2024. Light mortar systems have become a popular choice among military forces because they are easy to transport, simple to use, and can be quickly deployed in various terrains. This makes them especially useful in situations like asymmetric warfare and counterinsurgency operations. Infantry units particularly appreciate light mortars for the rapid indirect fire support they provide without the burden of heavy logistical requirements. Their cost-effectiveness, adaptability, and ability to work with modern targeting systems make them even more appealing. As militaries around the world place a greater emphasis on mobility and flexibility, the demand for light mortar systems continues to grow, solidifying their position in their respective categories.

Market Dynamics

Drivers:

Many countries are upgrading legacy artillery systems with lightweight, automated, and high-precision mortar systems to improve mobility and operational efficiency.

Many countries are significantly modernizing their armed forces, particularly by upgrading outdated artillery with advanced mortar technologies. Traditional mortar systems have been effective, but they often lack the mobility, automation, and precision needed for today's fast-paced combat scenarios. In response, defense forces around the world are increasingly acquiring lightweight, automated, and highly precise mortar systems to improve their strategic and tactical capabilities.

Lightweight mortar systems are particularly beneficial for mobile infantry units and special operations forces. They allow for quick deployment, easy transport, and require less logistical support. Many of these systems can be mounted on vehicles or designed to be carried by troops, making them perfect for challenging terrains like mountains, forests, and urban areas where traditional artillery might struggle.

Another key aspect of this modernization push is automation. The latest mortar systems come with digital fire control, GPS targeting, and automated aiming and loading. These advancements help to reduce setup and firing times, boost accuracy, and lessen crew fatigue. Automated systems also enable a quicker response to changing battlefield conditions, giving troops a vital edge.

Moreover, modern mortar platforms are now integrating precision-guided munitions, which allow for highly accurate targeting. This precision minimizes collateral damage and enhances effectiveness against both stationary and moving threats. Such accuracy is crucial, especially in asymmetric warfare and urban combat, where it's important to differentiate between combatants and civilians.

The growing preference for long-range precision-guided missile systems may reduce reliance on conventional indirect fire support like mortars.

The increasing use of long-range precision-guided missile systems is changing how military forces approach indirect fire support, like mortars. Precision-guided munitions (PGMs) are gaining popularity because they provide better range, accuracy, and destructive capability, allowing troops to hit important or distant targets with less chance of harming civilians. This capability is especially valuable in modern combat situations that require precise strikes, quick responses, and integration with advanced surveillance tools, including drones and satellites.

On the other hand, traditional mortar systems, while known for their mobility and quick deployment, have limitations in range and precision especially unless they're equipped with smart munitions or advanced targeting technology. As military organizations focus more on technological advantage and aim to protect civilian lives, funding is increasingly directed toward developing PGMs and more sophisticated artillery systems. This shift presents a challenge for manufacturers of mortar systems, who will need to innovate and adapt to stay relevant in a battlefield that increasingly prioritizes accuracy and long-range capabilities.

Segmental Analysis

Based on Caliber, Mortar System market is segmented into Light Mortar Systems, Medium Mortar Systems, Heavy Mortar Systems.

 In the global market for mortar systems, light mortar systems are clearly at the forefront when it comes to caliber. This is largely due to their impressive versatility, quick deployment, and adaptability to modern combat situations. Light mortars, typically ranging from 60mm to 81mm, are popular among infantry troops because they are lightweight, easy to transport, and simple to operate. They excel at providing short-range indirect fire support in a variety of conditions, such as urban warfare, mountainous regions, and counterinsurgency efforts. Their compact design makes them portable for soldiers or suitable for mounting on lighter vehicles, which increases mobility and facilitates quick movement on the battlefield.

The growing focus on rapid reaction forces and asymmetric warfare has only increased the demand for light mortars. Armies around the world, especially in emerging economies and areas facing insurgency issues, are moving towards mobile and flexible firepower solutions that don’t rely heavily on logistics. Advances in lightweight materials and digital fire-control technologies have also enhanced the accuracy and effectiveness of these light mortar systems, making them a valuable asset in today's combat scenarios.

Regions like Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe are particularly pushing for light mortar systems as more cost-effective alternatives to heavier artillery. Their integration into Special Forces and rapid deployment units boosts operational readiness while preserving strategic mobility. As a result, the light mortar segment continues to lead the market, driven by the need for adaptable, lightweight fire support weapons that can keep pace with modern warfare challenges.

Regional Landscape

In the context of regional analysis, the Mortar System market includes North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East and Africa.

The market size of the North America was valued at USD 660.4 Million in 2024 in terms of production and is expected to reach USD 1,110 Million by 2030, with a CAGR of 8.9% during the forecast period. The North America region is leading the global mortar system market, thanks to strong defense spending, advanced military modernization efforts, and ongoing investment in research and development. The U.S., as the largest global defense spender, plays a crucial role in this dominance. The U.S. Army is continuously upgrading its artillery and mortar systems to enhance precision, mobility, and lethality for modern combat situations. There’s also a growing focus on procuring lightweight and efficient mortar systems that can handle both conventional and asymmetric warfare, which is driving market growth.

 Key defense contractors and manufacturers such as General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and Elbit Systems of America add to this competitive edge through technological advancements and innovation. Canada also plays a part by participating in joint military training and procurement programs that meet NATO standards, which boosts the demand for mortar systems in the region.

North America's strategic geopolitical standing and its involvement in international peacekeeping and counterinsurgency missions require dependable indirect fire support systems like mortars. The region's defense infrastructure is evolving, incorporating advanced targeting systems and digital fire control to enhance the effectiveness of mortar systems in contemporary combat scenarios. Increased concerns regarding national security, border surveillance, and rapid military response capabilities further heighten the demand for mortar systems of various calibers.

As a result, North America is set to retain its leading role in the global mortar system market, backed by technological prowess, government defense initiatives, and a robust defense industrial base that ensures timely upgrades and the procurement of advanced systems.

Competitive Landscape

Some of the major companies operating within the Mortar System market are: Israel Military Industries (IMI), Raytheon Technologies, ST Engineering, Rheinmetall Defence, Leonardo S.p.A, Hanwha Defense, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, Nexter Systems, Hirtenberger Defense Systems and Others.