SIPRI: Global Arms Imports Rise 10% as U.S. Expands Dominance in Exports
Global arms imports increased by roughly 10 percent over the past five years, according to new data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. The United States accounted for nearly half of all weapons exports during the period.
Global transfers of major weapons expanded during the 2021–2025 period, reflecting rising geopolitical tensions and intensified military procurement efforts across several regions, according to newly released data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
The institute’s analysis indicates that international arms imports grew by approximately 10 percent compared with the previous five-year cycle. The increase comes as governments seek to strengthen military capabilities, replenish depleted stockpiles, and adapt to a more volatile security environment.
The United States maintained a dominant position in the global arms market during the period. According to SIPRI data, American manufacturers accounted for around 42 percent of total global arms exports, supplying a wide range of systems to allied and partner countries.
France ranked as the second-largest arms exporter, while Russia experienced a notable decline in global market share. Analysts attribute the reduction partly to the impact of sanctions and to the prioritization of domestic military requirements linked to the war in Ukraine.
Europe recorded the most significant increase in imports among all regions. SIPRI data shows that European states significantly expanded procurement programs following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with the region accounting for roughly one-third of global arms imports during the five-year period.
Many European governments have focused on acquiring advanced capabilities including combat aircraft, air and missile defense systems, and long-range precision weapons. The United States remained a primary supplier for many of these programs, reflecting established procurement ties within NATO and the availability of advanced platforms.
Asia and Oceania continued to represent a substantial share of global arms imports, although the region recorded a slight decline compared with the previous five-year period. SIPRI researchers indicated that reduced purchases by China, supported by expanded domestic production capacity, contributed to the regional decrease.
In the Middle East, overall imports declined during the period, although several countries in the region remained among the world’s largest arms importers.
Ukraine emerged as one of the largest recipients of weapons globally, primarily due to extensive military assistance from Western partners following Russia’s invasion. Other major importers included India, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
SIPRI researchers indicated that current procurement patterns reflect both immediate operational needs and longer-term modernization strategies, suggesting sustained demand for advanced military equipment in the coming years.
Adriadefense.com
Sources: SIPRI, AdriaDefense.com
