Explosive Detectors Market Size - By Technology (Bulk Detector, Trace Detector), By Product Type (Handheld, Portable, Fixed/Stationary), By End-Use (Military and Defense, Aviation, Law Enforcement, Public Places) & Forecast, 2024 - 2032

Explosive Detectors Market Size

Explosive Detectors Market size was valued at USD 8.95 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to register a CAGR of over 12% between 2024 and 2032. An explosive detector is a device or system designed to identify and detect the presence of explosive materials or substances. The rising frequency of terrorist attacks around the world have highlighted the importance for advanced security measures. High-profile occurrences in public venues, such as airports, train stations, and large gatherings, have highlighted these areas' vulnerability to explosive attacks.
 

For instance, according to Global Terrorism Index (GTI), in 2023, around 3,350 attacks happened in the world. Pakistan records most incidents with 490 attacks. Governments and commercial companies are investing in security infrastructure to prevent such incidents, which is driving up demand for explosive detectors.
 

Governments worldwide are implementing stricter regulations and standards for security screening, especially in transportation hubs like airports and seaports. Government agencies like as the TSA in the United States, the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) in the European Union, and equivalents in the Asia-Pacific have imposed strict laws requiring the use of advanced explosive detection equipment. These regulations aim to improve security measures at transportation hubs and vital infrastructure facilities.
 

For instance, in March 2024, in India, two categories of indigenous explosive detectors handed over to the Intelligence Bureau (IB) for field deployment with 12 identified security agencies across the country. These detectors were developed by the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL), the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), and the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The detectors are based on Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) and Raman Back Scattering (RBS) principles and have been customized according to the specific requirements of the security agencies.
 

Despite advancements in detection technology, many explosive detectors continue to experience false alarm rates, which can jeopardize their effectiveness and reliability. This is especially important in high-traffic places such as airports, where false alarms can cause interruptions, delays, and extra security inspections, causing inconvenience for passengers and reducing operational efficiency. Furthermore, some detection technologies have limits in detecting specific types of explosives or concealment strategies, creating a substantial challenge to overall security.
 

Explosive Detectors Market Trends

Threat detection capabilities are being revolutionized by the integration of AI and ML algorithms into explosive detection systems. Large volumes of data can be analyzed by systems in real time, which increase detection accuracy while lowering false alarm rates. Additionally, AI-driven algorithms can adjust and pick up on novel threat patterns, improving the efficacy and reactivity of explosive detectors. Governments and manufacturers are heavily investing in the development of advanced AI/ML-based detection algorithms for identifying new threats.
 

For instance, In March 2021, Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) and Alakai Defense Systems, Inc. (Alakai) were each awarded a $1 million, 24-month SBIR Phase II contract. These awards further lean into the goal of developing advanced AI/ML-based detection algorithms that can shorten the timeline for deployment of capabilities able to identify threats in the field.
 

The explosive detectors market is seeing an increase in the use of multi-modal explosive detection systems, which integrate various detection methods like thermal analysis, X-ray imaging, and trace detection. Complementary features of these integrated systems enable thorough screening of both bulk and trace explosives in a variety of settings. These systems improve security outcomes by reducing the possibility of false alarms and increasing overall detection sensitivity by utilizing various detection modalities.
 

For instance, in October 2022, Smiths Detection launched the HI-SCAN 7555 DV, a dual-view X-ray scanner designed for automatic explosives detection and enhanced security screening capabilities. The HI-SCAN 7555 DV offers several key features that enhance its performance and efficiency. The HI-SCAN 7555 DV is designed to provide efficient screening in high threat applications, such as airports, urban security, and ports & borders checkpoints, while ensuring high levels of security and automation without requiring additional hardware.
 

Explosive Detectors Market Analysis

Based on technology, the market is segmented into bulk detectors and trace detectors. The trace detector segment accounted for the largest market share with over 60% in 2023.
 

• The dominance of the trace detector segment in the explosive detectors market is attributed to its applications across the industries. Their capacity to identify trace levels of explosives renders them invaluable for security screening in these areas. Additionally, trace detectors are known for its high sensitivity, they can detect even minute amounts of explosive residue, making them important for security applications that need trace quantity detection. These detectors are widely used in aviation security, customs and border control, law enforcement, critical infrastructure security, and public event security.
   
• For instance, in August 2022, Explosive trace detectors are being increasingly used at airports for enhanced security. For example, Smiths Detection installed 30 HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX carry-on baggage screening systems at Leonardo di Vinci International Airport in Rome, and over 950 security system units are deployed at about 340 airports in the United States.

Based on product type, the explosive detectors market is divided into handheld, portable, and fixed/stationary. The handheld segment is fastest growing segment at a CAGR of over 10% in 2023. The market value of handheld explosive detectors is expected to reach over USD 8 billion by 2032.
 

• Rising global security concerns, including the threat of terrorism and the need for effective countermeasures, have driven demand for versatile and efficient detection solutions. Handheld detectors allow for immediate response to potential threats, enhancing security measures at critical points such as border crossings, government buildings, and major public events. Modern handheld detectors often include features such as real-time data analysis, wireless connectivity, and integration with broader security systems, making them more efficient and user-friendly.
   
• For instance, in May 2023, Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) announced that it is developing a mobile explosives trace detector that is lighter and more reliable than existing devices. The detector uses chemical-optical measurement technology and special dyes to detect explosives, and it can detect a wide range of explosives including TNT, nitro, nitrate, peroxide, and inorganic explosives. The team plans to launch the product in the EU, Great Britain, the USA, Canada, and Asia starting in 2025.

North American explosive detectors market accounted for over 30% of the revenue share in 2023. This dominant position is primarily due to numerous aspects, including increased security concerns, significant investments in security infrastructure, and the presence of key industry participants.
 

North America, notably the United States, has been a primary target for terrorist activity, prompting both the government and the commercial sector to invest extensively in improved explosive detection systems. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have implemented stringent security regulations and standards, necessitating the deployment of sophisticated explosive detection systems across airports, public venues, and critical infrastructure.
 

The U.S. led the North American explosive detectors market, owing to significant security investments and the existence of prominent businesses such as L3Harris Technologies, Leidos Holdings, and Teledyne FLIR. Faced with persistent terrorism concerns, the United States undertakes tough regulatory measures, increasing demand for enhanced detection technology across a variety of industries. This strong economic foundation and substantial security budgets ensure that the United States retains its market supremacy over the anticipated decade.
 

Germany's strong position in the European security market is largely due to its stringent standards and proactive counter-terrorism policy. With a modernized industrial base and a focus on technology innovation, Germany has developed advanced detection systems for airports, seaports, and other facilities. To maintain its position, Germany needs to invest more in AI and machine learning-based security solutions, ensuring it remains the first in the explosives industry and can respond to emerging risks with various technology types.
 

Japan's explosive detector market is growing due to its emphasis on public safety and disaster preparedness. Advanced technology systems are installed in key transportation points like airports and railway stations to prevent threats. Japan's technological capabilities and investment in smart city projects accelerate the adoption of sophisticated security technologies. The reliability of explosive detection systems, required during global events like the Tokyo Olympics, has increased demand.
 

South Korea is experiencing rapid growth in the explosive detectors market due to growing security concerns and its strategic position in the Asia Pacific region. The country's importance in global commerce and trade, coupled with potential threats from geopolitical tensions, necessitates modern systems to detect explosives. These systems should protect critical infrastructure, such as transportation networks and public places. South Korea's explosive detectors industry is expected to grow further through technological advancements, government efforts to enhance security capabilities, and partnerships between sectors and academic institutions.
 

Explosive Detectors Market Share

Smiths Detection Group Ltd. and L3Harris Technologies hold a significant share of over 15% in the market. Both companies are well known for their proficiency in developing cutting-edge detecting technology. While L3Harris Technologies provides a broad range of detection and security solutions, including technologies like radiation detection and chemical sensors, Smiths Detection Group Ltd. specializes in a variety of detection solutions, including X-ray systems, trace detectors, and mass spectrometry.
 

Both companies have a strong global presence with established distribution networks and partnerships worldwide. They have a broad market reach, servicing customers from different regions and industries, which contributes to their large market share.
 

Explosive Detectors Market Companies

Major companies operating in the explosive detectors industry are:

• Smiths Detection Group Ltd.
• L3Harris Technologies
• Rapiscan Systems
• Leidos Holdings, Inc.
• Teledyne FLIR LLC
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
• Chemring Group PLC
   

Explosive Detectors Industry News

• In March 2024, OSI Systems, Inc. received a contract worth approximately $27 million to provide Itemiser 5X explosive trace detection (ETD) systems for secondary screening of passengers and carry-on baggage at airport checkpoints along with related consumables to a leading European airport.
   
• In January 2024, The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) launched a new Themed Competition called "Small, Lightweight, Trace Explosives Detector." This competition aims to develop innovative, lightweight bioassay systems for the detection of trace explosives.
   

The explosive detectors market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Technology

• Bulk detector
• Trace detector

Market, By Product Type

• Handheld
• Portable
• Fixed/Stationary

Market, By End-Use

• Military and Defense
• Aviation
• Law enforcement
• Public places
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA