Military lighting refers to the lighting equipment used by
the military for various purposes, such as illuminating the battlefield,
signaling, navigation, and search and rescue operations. The lighting equipment
used by the military is designed to be rugged, durable, and efficient. In this
essay, we will discuss the various types of military lighting and their uses.
One of the most important types of military lighting is
tactical lighting. Tactical lighting is used by soldiers to illuminate the
battlefield and identify targets. Tactical lighting is also used by law
enforcement agencies for search and rescue operations. The lighting equipment
used for tactical purposes is designed to be lightweight and easy to use.
Tactical flashlights are one of the most commonly used types of tactical
lighting. These flashlights are compact, durable, and provide a powerful beam
of light.
Another important type of military lighting is navigation
lighting. Navigation lighting is used to help military vehicles and aircraft
navigate in low light conditions. Navigation lighting is also used to help
ground troops navigate through the terrain. The lighting equipment used for
navigation purposes includes strobe lights, beacons, and floodlights. These
lights are designed to be visible from long distances and provide a clear
indication of the direction of travel.
Signal lighting is another important type of military
lighting. Signal lighting is used for signaling between military units, as well
as for signaling for help during search and rescue operations. The lighting
equipment used for signal purposes includes flares, smoke signals, and strobe
lights. These lights are designed to be highly visible and provide a clear
indication of the location of the signal.
Finally, search and rescue lighting is used for locating and
rescuing military personnel who are lost or injured. The lighting equipment
used for search and rescue purposes includes searchlights, emergency strobe
lights, and infrared lighting. These lights are designed to be highly visible
in all types of weather conditions and provide a clear indication of the
location of the person in need of rescue.
In conclusion, military lighting plays a critical role in
the success of military operations. The lighting equipment used by the military
is designed to be rugged, durable, and efficient. The different types of
military lighting, such as tactical, navigation, signal, and search and rescue
lighting, each serve a specific purpose and are crucial for military
operations.
Military lighting Market Dynamics
Drivers in Military
Lighting Market
The military lighting market is being driven by the
modernization and upgrade of military vehicles, aircraft, and naval ships.
Governments worldwide are investing heavily in upgrading their armed forces
with better weapons and equipment, and this includes improving the helmet
lighting systems of soldiers and lighting systems of armored vehicles. These advanced
lighting systems are better suited for covert operations and are equipped with
night vision capabilities, which makes them highly desirable. As a result,
there is a growing demand for line fitting and retrofitting advanced LEDs in
naval, airborne, and ground applications, which is expected to drive the global
military lighting market. For instance, in June 2020, Orion Energy Systems
received a USD 1.3 million contract from the US government for a retrofit
project.
Restraints in
Military Lighting Market
However, the US-China trade conflict poses a
short-to-medium-term impact on the supply of lighting components, which is a
significant restraint to the military lighting market. The trade conflict
between the two largest economic powers in the world has transformed the
trading dynamics across the globe, particularly in the defense electronics
vertical. Since China is one of the largest producers of electronics, and the
US is the largest consumer of the same, the profitability of several lighting
product manufacturers worldwide has been negatively affected. This trade
conflict also has a widespread effect on other developing economies, including
Brazil, Indonesia, and India.
The types of lights used in military airports include runway
lighting systems, taxiway light systems, EALS, and apron lights, while the
categories of light by position include in-pavement/inset lights, elevated
airfields, and precision approach path indicator (PAPI). The armed forces also
use solar LED helipads to improve the operational efficiency of their systems.
The military lighting market is highly competitive, with
several prominent players such as Astronics Corp. (US), Honeywell International
(US), Raytheon Technologies (US), Glamox (Norway), and Orion Energy Systems
(US) operating in this space.
Opportunities: LED
Compatibility with Military, Navy, and Air Force Operations
The growth of the radar systems market, which is crucial for
military lighting, is often hindered by the high cost of developing such
systems. In addition, fluorescent lamps struggle to function properly in
low-temperature settings, creating a challenge for military lighting. LEDs, on
the other hand, perform exceptionally well in cold environments, including
outdoor winter settings, freezer rooms, and grocery store coolers. They can
operate within a temperature range of below zero degrees Fahrenheit to over 100
degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, LEDs can be arranged in any shape to produce
highly efficient illumination. By individually dimming LEDs, it is possible to
achieve dynamic control of light, color, and distribution. These
characteristics provide an opportunity for the military lighting market to
expand.
Challenges: Existing
Defense Backlog
Boeing (US) and Airbus (France) dominate the military order
market, receiving the largest number of orders compared to other manufacturers.
However, due to their limited manufacturing capacities, a significant backlog
of military deliveries exists. The COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated
this issue, with manufacturing activities temporarily suspended in major
production hubs, resulting in a slowdown in production. Due to the increased
restrictions on public meetings and travel, people are becoming increasingly
isolated, negatively affecting the military lighting market share. Supply chain
delays, stock market instability, and halted airlines have also impacted the
military lighting business, resulting in market and supply chain disruptions.
Due to lockdown restrictions, the closure of airports has halted the use of military
lighting, negatively impacting the military lighting market size.
The Ecosystem of Military Lighting Market
The military lighting market ecosystem comprises various
stakeholders, including companies that offer platforms and soldier systems.
Additionally, investors, funders, academic researchers, integrators, service
providers, and licensing agencies are the key influencers in this market.
Continuous advancements in technology have made it possible to fulfill the
critical requirements of high-accuracy lighting in the military. Factors such
as the demand for energy-efficient lighting solutions, increased government
focus and expenditure on installing efficient lighting, and advancements in LED
technologies are driving the military lighting market. Furthermore,
advancements in lighting technology are leading to a reduction in the overall
manufacturing cost of military lighting, which is positively impacting the
overall growth of the military lighting market. Across various regions, defense
forces are expanding their working areas by establishing military camps or
restricted military bases, which is also contributing to the growth of the
military lighting market.
The interior lighting segment is expected to witness the
fastest growth rate in the military lighting market. This can be attributed to
the growing use of map and chart lights while maintaining night vision to see
outside the aircraft. Moreover, various types of lights, such as glare shield
lights, dome lights, floor lights, emergency lights, and oxygen mask lights,
are also in demand. New aircraft and retrofits are increasingly using LEDs in
the cockpit to increase reliability and reduce lifecycle costs. These
solid-state parts consume less power and have no coiled filaments, which can
weaken from vibration and temperature extremes.
The North American region is leading the military lighting
market in terms of value due to the US and Canada's investment in modernization
and upgrade programs for their military capabilities. As a result, the military
lighting market in North America is expected to witness significant growth
during the forecast period. The leading manufacturers of military lighting in
this region include Astronics Corp. (US), Honeywell International (US),
Raytheon Technologies (US), Glamox (Norway), and Orion Energy Systems (US).
Governments around the world are taking initiatives to
install more energy-efficient lighting in military bases, which is creating
potential growth opportunities for the military lighting market. The adoption
of LED technology in the military sector for energy efficiency is also fueling
the market's growth. However, difficult terrains and areas where military bases
are typically located raise the cost of implementing military lighting in many
places, limiting the market's growth. Additionally, due to the high cost, the
scope of mass installation becomes very limited, which is one of the major
challenges for the growth of the military lighting market.
North America is expected to have the highest market share
due to the high investments made by the economies of Canada and the United
States in enhancing their military capabilities. The ongoing modernization of
military technologies and the growing demand for powerful armies that can wage
asymmetrical warfare are fueling the market in this region. On the other hand,
the Asia Pacific region is expected to acquire the second-largest market share
due to growing regional geopolitical pressure and rising defense budgets in
countries such as India, China, and Japan.
Military areas are highly sensitive and require 24/7
surveillance and patrolling for premise security. Lighting plays a vital role
in ensuring security in military areas, which are similar to small cities,
where lighting is required for perimeter security and constructed areas.
Military lighting includes security lighting, roadway lighting, lighting for
vehicles, tanks, bunkers, military housing, and other areas. Due to security
concerns, military lighting solutions must be dependable, energy-efficient,
long-lasting, and provide sophisticated dim lighting.
Governments worldwide have been emphasizing more efficient
military lighting in recent years, leading to an increasing demand for advanced
lighting technologies for military applications. The military lighting market
is expected to achieve double-digit growth during the forecast period,
primarily driven by the need for line fitting and retrofitting modern LEDs in
marine, aerial, and land applications. However, the major obstacle to the
growth of the military lighting market is the conventional light systems that
cannot be removed from military bases, and power generation limitations in some
developing countries.
The military sector is investing significantly in upgrading
their equipment and weaponry, with a focus on updating lighting systems for
armored vehicles and helmet lighting systems for soldiers. Upgraded lighting
systems would feature night vision capabilities and be better suited for covert
activities. The adoption of LED technology in the military sector for energy
efficiency has propelled the growth of the military lighting market. Tank
manufacturers, for instance, have recently replaced incandescent lightbulbs in
the headlights of their vehicles with LEDs due to their longer lifespan and
higher durability. LEDs have thick silicon barriers that prevent damage from
rocks and other objects, making them an excellent choice for drivers who need
to spot enemies in the distance.
SolTech Lightings has introduced a self-sustaining military
base solar LED lighting solution, in which the solar panel and battery are
attached to the fixture. These lights are highly efficient and compact,
lighting up military bases with great effectiveness. Even in unfavorable
weather conditions, the lights can last up to seven nights with just a day of
sunlight. Most places receive enough sunlight for the lights to remain
sufficiently charged.
The military lighting market is growing due to rising
investments in defense sectors by emerging economies and growing concerns over
the security of troops and equipment. The expansion of operational zones by
establishing military camps or securing military bases is driving the military
lighting business globally.
The interior lighting segment is expected to contribute the
most significant market revenue. Interior lights are installed in various
military spaces, including general buildings, administrative, educational,
healthcare, food & service, recreational, and maintenance areas. Special
lighting is also utilized in military aircraft to illuminate the main cabin. In
addition, military aircraft have emergency lighting systems on the floor to
assist passengers in case of an emergency.
In 2021, the military lighting market's largest market share
is accounted for by LED lights, which are used in various military
applications, such as land, airborne, and maritime. LED lights offer several
advantages over traditional bulbs, including increased efficiency, longer
lifespan, and greater resistance to harsh environments. The most widely used
type of LED lights in military lighting applications is the general-purpose or
small tactical white LEDs, which can be used alone for general illumination or
in combination with other colors such as red, blue, or green. LED technology is
also used in military aircraft cockpits, which has accelerated the growth of
this segment.
The military lighting market is categorized into ground,
marine, and airborne segments based on end-use, with the ground segment
expected to hold significant revenue share. The development of military
lighting for armored vehicles is driving the growth of the ground segment.
Companies such as Oxley and Eeltex offer a wide range of LED solutions for
military applications, including external and internal lighting for military
vehicles, emergency escape lighting systems, robust LED lighting, and rapid
deployment LED lighting for the ground route. All of these factors collectively
contribute to the growth of the ground segment in the military lighting market.
Key Players in Military Lighting Market
- ASTRONICS CORPORATION
- HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL.
- RAYTHEON TECHNOLOGIES
- GLAMOX
- ORION ENERGY SYSTEMS
- LIGHTPARTNER LICHTSYSTEME GMBH & CO. KG
- CONSOLITE TECHNOLOGY
- KARL DOSE GMBH
- WISKA HOPPMANN GMBH
- OXLEY GROUP
- MARL INTERNATIONAL
- ADB SAFEGATE
- THE L.C. DOANE COMPANY
- UNILUX GEOMAR S.A.
- OPTONAVAL GMBH
- SODERBERG MANUFACTURING COMPANY
- LOPOLIGHT COMPANY
- PETERS AND BEY COMPANY
- CILAS COMPANY
- CALZONI
- COBHAM LIMITED
- ZODIAC AEROSPACE
- AGI HOLDINGS
- DEN HAAN ROTTERDAM (DHR)
- DAEYANG
Recent Developments in Military Lighting Market
The military lighting market has seen various recent
developments that will impact the industry positively. One such development is
a contract awarded to Oxley Group by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) and
Rheinmetall Land Systeme (RSL) worth USD 4.4 million. Oxley Group will provide
LEDs for the British Army's new Boxer vehicles. Another strategic agreement
that has been signed is between Astronics Corporation and LG Display. Astronics
will have access to a wide range of OLED displays from LG Display, as well as
technical assistance for development and integration from LG Display
engineering resources.
In January 2022, Anglia Components strengthened its
partnership with MARL International to become MARL's Master Distributor for the
UK and Ireland. The move will enable Anglia to provide customized goods and
maintain a sizable inventory of basic items for customers and other resellers.
Babcock International Group awarded the contract to Consolite Technology Ltd
(UK) in September 2021 to provide the General and Navigation Lighting System
for the Type 31 General Purpose Frigates. The agreement covers all general
lighting, including internal compartment lighting and external lighting for all
weather decks.
Another recent development is the acquisition of 100% of
Luminell's shares by Glamox and Norwegian business Luminell Group in April
2021. Luminell Group is known for its premium floodlights, searchlights, and
lighting controllers in the marine and offshore lighting sector. These
developments are likely to impact the military lighting market positively and
drive its growth.
The military lighting market has witnessed several recent
developments, with a focus on technological advancements and energy-efficient
solutions. One such development is the use of LED technology in military
lighting. LED lights have proven to be more efficient, durable, and
long-lasting compared to traditional lighting solutions, which has led to an
increased demand for LED lighting in the military sector.
Another recent development in the military lighting market
is the use of solar-powered lighting solutions. These self-sustaining lighting
solutions utilize solar panels and batteries to power the lights, making them
more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. SolTech Lightings, for
example, has introduced a solar-powered LED lighting solution for military
bases, which can last up to seven nights with just one day of sunlight.
In addition to technological advancements, the military
lighting market has seen a rise in investments in the defense sector by
emerging economies. This has led to an increase in demand for military lighting
solutions to secure military bases and equipment.
Moreover, the interior lighting segment has been identified
as the largest revenue contributor in the military lighting market. Interior
lights are installed in various military spaces, including general buildings,
administrative, educational, healthcare, food & service, recreational, and
maintenance areas. Special lighting is also utilized in military aircraft to
illuminate the main cabin.
Overall, the military lighting market is undergoing
significant developments to provide efficient and sustainable lighting
solutions for military operations. The focus on energy efficiency and
technological advancements is likely to drive the market's growth in the coming
years.