Shortwave Infrared Market Analysis
Based on end user, the market is segmented into defense and military, healthcare & research, automotive, agriculture, oil and gas, and others. The defense & military segment accounted for a market share of over 30% in 2023.
- The defense & military segment is experiencing significant growth in the shortwave infrared (SWIR) market due to the rising demand for advanced surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting technologies. SWIR is invaluable for military applications due to its ability to operate effectively in low-light conditions including at night and penetrate certain obscurants such as smoke & haze. Military forces around the world are investing in SWIR technology to improve situational awareness, target identification, and threat detection, thereby increasing their operational capabilities.
- Advancements in SWIR sensors and imaging systems have resulted in more compact, lightweight & cost-effective solutions, accelerating adoption among defense and military organizations. Furthermore, the growing emphasis on border security & counterterrorism efforts and the modernization of military equipment are propelling the procurement of SWIR-based surveillance and targeting systems, contributing to the overall SWIR market growth in the defense & military sector.
Based on scanning type, the market is segmented into line scan and area scan. The area scan segment is estimated to register a significant CAGR of over 7% during the forecast period of 2024-2032.
- Area scan, as a scanning type, is experiencing significant growth in the shortwave infrared industry due to its suitability for a wide range of applications requiring extensive imaging and inspection. In industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and security, there is an increasing demand for high-resolution imaging over large areas to monitor processes, detect anomalies, and ensure quality control. Advancements in SWIR sensor technology have resulted in the development of area scan cameras, which can capture detailed images across large surfaces with greater speed and accuracy. These cameras are highly sensitive to SWIR wavelengths, allowing them to detect subtle variations in temperature, moisture, and material composition.
- Area scan cameras are versatile enough to be integrated into existing imaging systems and automation processes, further driving their adoption. As industries seek efficient and dependable imaging solutions for large-scale applications, the demand for area scan technology in the SWIR market is expected to increase significantly.
North America held a significant share of over 30% in the global shortwave infrared market in 2023. The region has a strong presence of key market players and a solid infrastructure for technological innovation. Furthermore, growing investments in defense & security applications as well as industrial automation and surveillance are fueling demand for SWIR technology. Furthermore, the growing adoption of SWIR in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and automotive is driving growth in North America, establishing the region as a major contributor to market expansion.