The global attack helicopter market size is estimated to be valued at USD 7.82 Billion in 2025. It is projected to reach a valuation of USD 12.31 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.7% throughout the forecast period (2025-2032).  

The market is expected to ramp up massive growth owing to defense modernization programs and worldwide geopolitical tensions. The increasing defense expenditures of nations and strides in avionics can widen the market opportunities.

However, the budget constraints of countries for the procurement and maintenance of attack helicopters can limit their growth.

Key Market Insights

The attack helicopter market is shaped by the development of autonomous attack helicopters and the integration of stealth features in the next-generation choppers.

• By type, the light attack helicopters segment is expected to capture a 36.0% share of the market in 2025. The capacity of light attack helicopters in asymmetric warfare and conventional war theaters can drive the segment growth over the forecast period.
• By application, the homeland security & law enforcement segment is anticipated to retain 30.0% market share in 2025. The focus on border security and counter-terrorism can provide the impetus for homeland security agencies to procure attack helicopters. The persistent threats from organized crime syndicates can spur the market growth over the forecast period.
• By product, the twin-engine segment is anticipated to have a significant market share in 2025. This can be attributed to their enhanced safety, load-carrying capacity, and range of helicopters.
• By take-off weight, the below 8 tons segment is anticipated to have a significant market share in 2025. This can be on account of the quick deployment of lightweight attack helicopters in quick response situations.
• By geography, the Europe region can account for a significant market share in 2025. This can be attributed to growing security concerns following the Ukraine conflict and NATO modernization requirements. The investment in indigenous production and the commitment to the modernization of Tiger MkIII attack helicopters are expected to be fruitful for the attack helicopter market in the region.

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Attack Helicopter Market Report Coverage

Market Dynamics

The integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in air attacks is expected to be beneficial to the attack helicopter market. The demands for the modernization of the Apache helicopter due to its operational service and low-risk use in the U.S. army can drive market growth significantly. Moreover, the testing of manned-unmanned teams on battlefields to counter the use of drones and integrate attack helicopters as part of a broad military strategy can bolster the market over the forecast period.

The aim of helicopter manufacturers to lower on-lead times and streamline the supply chain can lead to the use of additive printing. Additive printing or 3D printing can provide support for the printing of critical parts as well as whole structures. Prominent manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing have tested the technology with resounding success. This trend can elevate the modernization efforts of nations to strengthen their defenses and augur favorably for the market.

Market Opportunity: Unmanned Attack Helicopters in Future Conflicts

The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have prompted the need for unmanned aerial vehicles for providing air support. This is due to the use of drones by enemy combatants and the challenges in surface-to-air missile systems. The development of indigenous attack helicopters and the reduction of reliance on foreign imports can spur onshore innovation. For instance, the Indian Air Force (IAF) signed a contract for the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) on March 28, 2025, and aims to procure it from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Market Challenge: Operational Challenges to Impede Market Growth

The heat-related malfunctions of attack helicopters can be a massive challenge for the market. It has led to emergency landings of the aircraft with multiple reports in 2025. Its inability to handle thermal stress has led to malfunctions in the aircraft. Moreover, concerns over their use in conventional warfare due to loitering munitions and lack of stand-alone capabilities can provide obstacles for the market.

Analyst’s View

• The integration of AI in these choppers to enhance their capabilities can drive the attack helicopter market.
• The light attack helicopter segment is set to account for a major market share in 2025, owing to its preference in border patrol and counter-insurgency operations.
• Key players are focused on the integration of autonomous technologies and the development of multi-role helicopters.

 Recent Developments

Lockheed Martin was awarded a contract from the U.S government on June 16, 2025, for the production of Generation 4 Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (Gen 4 TADS/PNVS) systems. This contract is an agreement for the integration of the technology within AH64-E Apache attack helicopters for the Polish government.

Competitor Insights

• Bell Textron Inc.
• Lockheed Martin Corporation
• Denel Aeronautics
• Turkish Aerospace Industries
• Airbus Helicopters
• The Boeing Company
• MD Helicopters Inc.
• China North Industries Group Corporation
• Russian Helicopters – Rostec
• Embraer S.A.
• Leonardo SpA
• Hindustan Aeronautical Ltd.

Market Segmentation

• By Type
• Medium Attack Helicopters
• Light Attack Helicopters
• Heavy Attack Helicopters
• By Application
• Military Operations
• Homeland Security & Law Enforcement
• Others (Special Missions, Private Security, etc.)
• By Product
• Single-engine
• Twin-engine
• By Take-off Weight
• Above 8 Tons
• Below 8 Tons

Regional Insights

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Europe
  • Italy
  • Germany
  • U.K.
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • France
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • South Korea
  • India
  • China
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • ASEAN
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Middle East
  • GCC Countries
  • Israel
  • Rest of Middle East
• Africa
  • South Africa
  • North Africa
  • Central Africa