Military Lighting Market

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.