Less Lethal Ammunition Market - Global Forecast 2025-2032

The less lethal ammunition market is evolving rapidly, shaped by heightened regulatory scrutiny, technological advancements, and shifting security priorities. As global requirements pivot toward responsible force management, decision-makers need actionable insights to navigate these ongoing changes effectively.

Market Snapshot: Less Lethal Ammunition Market Growth and Outlook

The less lethal ammunition market grew from USD 1.16 billion in 2024 to USD 1.24 billion in 2025, with projections indicating continued expansion at a CAGR of 7.34%, reaching USD 2.05 billion by 2032. This steady trajectory reflects strong demand driven by security sector modernization, increased focus on human-centered solutions, and evolving regulatory frameworks that are reshaping procurement and adoption worldwide.

Scope & Segmentation

• Ammo Types: Bean bag rounds (standard and super sock), foam rounds, pepper ball rounds, rubber bullets (hollow core, segmented, solid), and wooden projectiles.
• End Users: Corrections, law enforcement (federal, local, state), military (air force, army, navy, special forces), and private security organizations.
• Caliber Gauges: .68 caliber, 12 gauge (2.75-inch, 3-inch), 40 mm, and 9 mm.
• Launch Platforms: 40 mm launchers, grenade launchers (standalone, underbarrel), handheld launchers, and shotguns.
• Regions Covered: Americas (North America and Latin America), Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Asia-Pacific, including key countries within each.
• Key Companies: Safariland LLC, Axon Enterprise, Inc., Combined Systems, Inc., Rheinmetall AG, Chemring Group PLC, BAE Systems plc, General Dynamics Corporation, Textron Inc., L3Harris Technologies, Inc., PepperBall Technologies, Inc.

Key Takeaways for Senior Decision-Makers

• Advancements in digital training tools, such as augmented reality modules and ballistic simulators, are enhancing the preparedness and response of security forces, while providing measurable results that inform procurement policies.
• New materials and sensor-embedded ammunition are now supporting continuous feedback and after-action analysis, enabling ongoing product improvement and data-driven oversight for operational effectiveness.
• Cross-sector collaborations among agencies, manufacturers, and research institutions are fostering the rapid development and validation of next-generation solutions, with a focus on safety and compliance.
• Regional market dynamics are creating differentiated adoption pathways: Americas prioritize policy-driven deployment and modernization; EMEA is strengthening interoperability, while Asia-Pacific accelerates technology-driven capability building.
• Product portfolios demonstrate growing modularity; launch systems and ammunition types are being aligned to procurement flexibility and comprehensive integration with legacy and new platforms.

Tariff Impact: Navigating Shifts in Supply Chain and Procurement

Recent changes in the United States' tariff regime have led to increased raw material costs—particularly for specialty fabrics and polymers—prompting industry-wide reassessment of sourcing strategies. Manufacturers are responding by consolidating supplier networks, investing in local production, and leveraging mechanisms like free trade zones to reduce vulnerabilities. Procurement teams are favoring long-term, flexible contracts and seeking modular platforms to enhance adaptability to future price fluctuations and operational requirements.

Methodology & Data Sources

This report uses a multi-method approach, integrating stakeholder interviews, proprietary laboratory testing, and a comprehensive review of regulatory guidance. Insights were derived from direct consultations with end users, laboratory ballistic reports, and analysis of supply chain practices, combined with policy updates and expert peer review, ensuring robust qualitative and quantitative assessment.

Why This Report Matters

• Enables senior leaders to benchmark technology trends and compliance requirements rapidly for informed investment and procurement planning.
• Supports strategic supply-chain decisions with detailed insight into tariff impacts, production footprint shifts, and vendor diversification best practices.
• Highlights actionable opportunities for modular integration, digital transformation, and new partnership models to maintain competitive positioning.

Conclusion

The less lethal ammunition market is entering a period of adaptive transformation, underscored by regulatory change, technological innovation, and shifting procurement priorities. Leaders equipped with timely intelligence and a holistic perspective are well positioned to drive effective, compliant, and forward-looking strategies in force management.

 

Additional Product Information:

• Purchase of this report includes 1 year online access with quarterly updates.
• This report can be updated on request. Please contact our Customer Experience team using the Ask a Question widget on our website.