The defence technology landscape is set for significant changes in 2025, as innovations from both startups and established companies mature into deployable solutions. Recent conflicts have accelerated the development and adoption of new military technologies, particularly in drone and autonomous systems.
Drone technology is advancing rapidly across multiple fronts. Remote-controlled systems are being enhanced with artificial intelligence capabilities. Companies like Spear are developing tactical drones utilizing computer vision and swarm algorithms, while Anduril offers autonomous unmanned aerial systems with edge AI for intelligent air support. These systems, some with ranges exceeding 1,000 kilometers, represent a shift toward more sophisticated autonomous operations.
The military robotics sector shows substantial growth potential. The market is projected to reach $24.2 billion by 2025, driven by companies advancing AI and autonomous systems. Rebellion builds mission-focused AI products for comprehensive battlespace awareness, while Axon Vision develops computer vision systems providing automated situational awareness for ground vehicles.
In directed energy weapons, significant advances are expected. The U.S. Department of Defence projects 500-kilowatt laser systems will be operational by 2024, with 1-megawatt systems planned for 2030. Companies like Epirus are developing directed energy weapons systems utilizing solid-state, software-defined high-power microwave technology.
The cybersecurity landscape faces new challenges. Gartner predicts 2025 will mark the year when cyber attackers successfully weaponize operational technology with potential for physical impact. HarfangLab is developing cyber defence solutions for critical infrastructure, while Cyber Forza offers a unified platform combining defender and interceptor capabilities.
Manufacturing technology is transforming military logistics. Geofabrica provides mobile production systems for point-of-need manufacturing, enabling on-site production of critical components. Raven Space Systems advances large-scale 3D printing for aerospace components, offering solutions for rapid production of specialized parts.
Infrastructure modernization continues with companies like 3IPK developing blockchain-based process management systems for defence supply chains, while Q-CTRL advances quantum computing applications for military navigation and cryptographic analysis.
The sector faces significant technical challenges, including:
- Integration of autonomous systems with existing infrastructure
- Development of effective counter-drone technologies
- Secure communication systems for autonomous platforms
- Supply chain resilience for critical components
As the industry evolves, both startups and established defence contractors are adapting to meet these challenges, driving innovation across multiple technological domains.
