Global Tensions Reshape the Arms Industry: The World’s Top Weapon Manufacturers

As wars, geopolitical rivalry, and military competition intensify across the globe, the landscape of the international arms trade is rapidly transforming. Heightened conflict, regional tensions, and evolving security threats have pushed many nations to rely more heavily on advanced weapons and defense technologies.

Riding this wave of rising demand, several major defense corporations have built formidable military-industrial empires. Based on data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), here is a look at the world’s leading arms manufacturers.

1. Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin is the United States’ leading defense and aerospace company and one of the world’s largest suppliers of weapons and military technology. The company was formed in 1995 after a merger between Lockheed Corporation and Martin Marietta.

It produces iconic systems such as the F-35 and F-22 fighter jets, C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, Patriot missile systems, and the Black Hawk helicopter. In 2024, Lockheed Martin generated $64.65 billion from arms sales.

2. RTX

RTX, formerly known as Raytheon Technologies, is another major U.S. aerospace and defense company. It was founded in 2020 following the merger of Raytheon Company and United Technologies Corporation.

RTX is renowned for missile defense systems, radar technologies, aircraft engines, and aerospace innovation. Among its notable products are the Patriot missile, Tomahawk cruise missile, and Javelin anti-tank missile. In 2024, RTX recorded $43.60 billion in arms sales.

3. Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman is a leading U.S. defense and aerospace contractor known for its expertise in stealth technology, missile defense, and unmanned surveillance systems.

It is responsible for the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and the next-generation B-21 Raider. The company also develops the Global Hawk drone, satellite systems, and AI-driven defense technologies. In 2024, Northrop Grumman posted $37.85 billion in arms sales.

4. BAE Systems

BAE Systems, headquartered in the United Kingdom, is one of Europe’s largest defense and security technology companies. Its portfolio includes warships, submarines, armored vehicles, artillery systems, and advanced avionics.

The company plays a major role in the Eurofighter Typhoon combat aircraft program and the British Navy’s modern submarine projects. In 2024, BAE Systems earned $33.79 billion from arms sales.

5. General Dynamics

General Dynamics is one of the United States’ largest defense manufacturers, producing weapons for land, sea, and cyber domains.

Its major products include the M1 Abrams tank, Stryker armored vehicle, Virginia-class submarines, and advanced military communication systems. In 2024, the company achieved $33.63 billion in arms sales.

6. Boeing

Although best known as a commercial aircraft manufacturer, Boeing remains a major force in military aviation and defense.

It produces the F-15 and F-18 fighter jets, AH-64 Apache attack helicopter, C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft, and multiple satellite-based defense technologies. Boeing is a key supplier to the U.S. military and several NATO countries. In 2024, its arms sales totaled $30.55 billion.

7. Rostec

Rostec is Russia’s state-owned defense conglomerate and the backbone of the country’s military industry. Its subsidiaries build the Su-35 and Su-57 fighter jets, Kamov and Mil helicopters, T-90 tanks, and the Pantsir air defense system.

A major portion of Russia’s defense exports is managed through Rostec. The company recorded $27.12 billion in arms sales in 2024.

8. AVIC

The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) is China’s largest military aircraft manufacturer. From the J-20 stealth fighter to transport aircraft, helicopters, and avionics, AVIC dominates China’s defense aviation sector.

Its technologies play a pivotal role in the modernization of China’s air force. In 2024, AVIC posted $20.32 billion in arms sales.

9. NORINCO

China’s NORINCO Group is one of the world’s largest defense contractors, producing both commercial goods and a wide range of military hardware.

Its products include tanks, armored vehicles, rocket artillery, missile systems, and small arms. NORINCO exports extensively to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. In 2024, it generated $13.97 billion from arms sales.

10. CETC

The China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) specializes in military electronics, radar systems, communications, and cyber defense technologies. Founded in 2002 after the restructuring of several state research institutes, CETC supplies vital electronic components for China’s modern fighter jets, missile defense systems, and surveillance networks.

CETC plays a key role in the digital transformation of China’s armed forces. In 2024, the company reported $18.92 billion in arms sales.