Press Release

North America Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market to Grow with a CAGR of 5.56% through 2030

Growing demand for advanced situational awareness, rising focus on stealth detection capabilities, and increasing integration of IRST in next-generation fighter aircraft are the factors driving the market in the forecast period 2026-2030.

 

According to TechSci Research report, “North America Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market – By Country, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F”, North America Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market was valued at USD 4.43 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 6.13 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.56% during the forecast period.

North American Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System market is progressing quickly as defense strategies place greater focus on passive detection technologies that remain effective in environments dominated by electronic warfare. The growing challenge of radar-evading aerial threats has driven defense organizations to expand their surveillance and tracking capabilities beyond traditional radar, positioning IRST as a core element of modern defense systems. Market growth is closely tied to the modernization of advanced fighter fleets and the increasing demand for long-range target acquisition capabilities in both day and night operations.

Another factor fueling momentum is the integration of IRST into multi-domain warfare frameworks, where interoperability across air, naval, and unmanned platforms has become essential. The passive nature of IRST, which operates without emitting electromagnetic signals, not only enhances stealth missions but also ensures reliable detection in radar-jammed or GPS-denied environments. Rising emphasis on precision targeting and the need for early warning against emerging hypersonic threats are further contributing to the expansion of the market.

 

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​In 2024, the airborne platform segment registered the fastest growth in North America Infrared Search & Track (IRST) system market, driven by the increasing integration of advanced detection technologies into fighter jets, bombers, and unmanned aerial vehicles. Airborne systems are prioritized because of their critical role in modern air combat, where detecting stealth aircraft and long-range aerial threats has become a strategic necessity. Defense organizations are equipping new-generation fighters with IRST capabilities while also upgrading legacy fleets to strengthen situational awareness in radar-denied or electronically contested environments. The passive nature of IRST makes it especially valuable for airborne missions, as it enables aircraft to track adversaries without revealing their own position. Rising demand for long-range precision targeting, early warning against hypersonic threats, and multi-spectral imaging has further supported the rapid adoption of airborne IRST systems.

The fastest-growing market in 2024 was Mexico, where rising interest in advanced defense technologies has accelerated demand for IRST systems. The country’s efforts to modernize its defense infrastructure have included the adoption of passive detection solutions to improve surveillance and response capabilities. While the market remains smaller in scale compared to the United States and Canada, rapid procurement initiatives and increasing recognition of IRST’s role in countering modern threats have fueled strong year-on-year growth. This momentum highlights Mexico’s potential as an emerging market in the regional defense technology landscape.


Major Market Players Operating in North America Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market Are:

  • Leonardo S.P.A.
  • Thales Group
  • Rheinmetall AG
  • Aselsan A.S.
  • Safran S.A.
  • Lockheed Martin Corporation
  • Northrop Grumman Corporation
  • HGH Systèmes Infrarouges
  • Tonbo Imaging Private Limited
  • Raytheon Technologies Corporation


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“North American Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System market is emerging as a critical element of modern defense strategy, with demand accelerating as armed forces prioritize technologies that deliver an advantage in contested airspaces. The growing reliance on passive detection is reshaping procurement strategies, as IRST systems enable the tracking of stealth aircraft, drones, and hypersonic threats without disclosing a platform’s position. Growth is being driven not only by the expansion and modernization of combat aircraft fleets but also by the increasing role of unmanned aerial systems and naval platforms that require reliable, emission-free surveillance capabilities. Advancements in multispectral sensing, system miniaturization, and AI-enabled target recognition are enhancing the versatility of IRST, supporting deployment across a broad spectrum of platforms. The market is also moving toward deeper integration into network-centric operations, where seamless data sharing across domains strengthens overall situational awareness and combat effectiveness”, said Mr. Karan Chechi, Research Director of TechSci Research, a research-based global management consulting firm.

“North America Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market By Component (Scanning Head, Processing Unit, Control & Display Unit), By End User (Civil, Defense), By Platform (Airborne, Naval, Land, Others), By Country, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F”, assesses the market's future growth potential and provides data on market size, trends, and forecasts. It aims to offer comprehensive market insights, helping decision-makers make informed investment choices. The report also highlights emerging trends, key drivers, challenges, and opportunities in North America Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market.

 

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North America Infrared Search & Track (IRST) System Market By Component (Scanning Head, Processing Unit, Control & Display Unit), By End User (Civil, Defense), By Platform (Airborne, Naval, Land, Others), By Country, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Aerospace and Defense | Sep, 2025

Growing demand for advanced situational awareness, rising focus on stealth detection capabilities, and increasing integration of IRST in next-generation fighter aircraft are the factors driving the market in the forecast period 2026-2030.

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