Non-Lethal Weapons Market Size, Share, Growth & Forecast Report 2025–2033

Global Non-Lethal Weapons Market is set to reach USD 13.91 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.52% from USD 8.58 Billion in 2024.

Non-lethal weapons, also known as less-lethal or non-deadly weapons, are designed to incapacitate, deter, or disable individuals or equipment without causing permanent harm or fatalities. These weapons are widely adopted by law enforcement and military personnel for riot control, crowd management, and peacekeeping operations, as well as for personal security in civilian applications.

Market Trends and Outlook

Rising Demand for Crowd Control Measures

The global increase in public demonstrations, civil unrest, and protests has significantly boosted the demand for non-lethal tools such as rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons. For instance, in January 2025, PepperBall launched the BURST area saturation device, combining 130-decibel auditory deterrents with dispersal payloads, enhancing riot control capabilities.

Military Applications and Peacekeeping Operations

Modern militaries are increasingly incorporating non-lethal options such as acoustic devices, directed energy weapons, and electromagnetic pulse (EMP) systems to minimize fatalities and collateral damage. Notable is the Republic of Singapore Navy outfitting their Sentinel-class vessels with Sitep Italia’s MASS acoustic systems in 2023.

Innovation and Technological Advancements

Advanced R&D is leading to more effective, precise, and safe non-lethal solutions. From Axon Enterprise’s multi-million dollar contracts for non-lethal weapon systems to electric railguns like Arcflash Labs’ GR-1 Anvil, the market is evolving rapidly with next-gen technology.

Market Challenges

Limited Effectiveness in High-Pressure Situations

In unpredictable, high-stress scenarios, non-lethal weapons may not always function effectively. Agitated individuals or resistant groups can reduce their efficacy, raising reliability concerns.

Ethical and Legal Constraints

Improper use of non-lethal weapons may result in serious injury, human rights violations, or legal consequences. Global agencies are enforcing stricter guidelines, especially in law enforcement and military operations.

Related Report

Payment Gateway Market

Allergy Relieving Eye Drops Market

Cabernet Sauvignon Market 

Segment Analysis

By Product Type

• Gases and Sprays (Tear gas, pepper spray): Effective for riot control and suspect subduing.
• Taser Guns: Widely used by police forces; minimal risk of lasting injury.
• Grenades, Bullets, Others: Includes stun grenades, bean bags, and rubber bullets.

By Technology

• Chemical: Irritant-based and incapacitating agents for defense operations.
• Electroshock: Tasers and electric weapons.
• Mechanical & Kinetic: Rubber bullets, batons, and stun projectiles.
• Acoustic/Light: Sonic deterrents and blinding light systems.
• Others: EMP, microwaves, and new-age defense tech.

By End-Use

• Law Enforcement: For crowd management, riot control, and suspect restraint.
• Military: Conflict zone applications, peacekeeping, and humanitarian missions.
• Others: Civilian self-defense and private security.

Regional Insights

United States

A leader in non-lethal weapon adoption. Taser guns, pepper spray, and rubber bullets are standard issue in most police departments. Military usage is expanding, especially for peacekeeping.

Notable Development: Arcflash Labs' GR-1 Anvil Gauss rifle—an electric railgun launched in October 2024.

United Kingdom

Used primarily for protest management and large-scale public events. Water cannons and tasers are frequently deployed.

India

Market expansion driven by frequent protests and need for border control. Defense exports hit USD 2.63 billion in FY 2023–24—a 32.5% increase YoY.

Saudi Arabia

Utilized during major religious gatherings and rising defense needs. Investments in border and internal security further fuel demand.

Key Market Players

Covered from 4 perspectives: Company Overview, Key Persons, Strategies, Financials

• Byrna Technologies Inc.
• General Dynamics Corporation
• Moog Inc.
• Raytheon Technologies Corporation
• Rheinmetall AG
• Textron Inc.
• Combined Systems Inc.

Market Scope

FAQs – Non-Lethal Weapons Market

1. What is the projected value of the global non-lethal weapons market by 2033?
   The market is projected to reach USD 13.91 Billion by 2033.
2. Which technologies are driving innovation in this market?
   Electroshock, chemical agents, acoustic deterrents, and directed energy systems.
3. Who are the key end-users of non-lethal weapons?
   Law enforcement, military, and private security sectors.
4. Which country holds the largest share in this market?
   The United States, due to wide adoption across police and defense agencies.
5. What are the challenges in this market?
   Ethical concerns, effectiveness under stress, and regulatory restrictions.