Long Range Camera Market Size, Share, COVID-19 and Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis, By Wavelength (Short Wave Infrared, Medium Wave Infrared, Long Wave Infrared), By Platform (Airborne, Land, and Naval), By Focal Length (Below 200 mm, 200 - 400 mm, 400 - 800 mm), By Camera Installations (Fixed Installation, Portable, & Platform-Mounted), By Application (Designated Marksman Target Spotting & Range Detection, Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition etc.), By End User (Defense, Homeland Security, Shooting Sports, Forestry & Wildlife Conservation etc.) and Regional Forecast, 2023-2030

The global long range camera market size was valued at USD 8.02 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 8.62 billion in 2023 to USD 14.66 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.89% during the forecast period.

Long range cameras use the visible and near-infrared (VIS/NIR) wavelengths of light to provide high quality images optimized for tracking. A thermal camera is a device that creates an image using infrared radiation, similar to a conventional camera that creates an image using visible light. Instead of the 400-700 nanometer range of the visible light camera, infrared cameras are sensitive to wavelengths from about 1,000 nm to 14,000 nm and this makes it a long range camera.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Increased Demand for Long Range Camera for Security & Surveillance Applications Propelled the Market Growth Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

The pandemic led to widespread disruptions in the global supply chain. Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures affected the production and transportation of essential components.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the long range camera market share. On one hand, the pandemic caused a decline in demand for cameras from some industries, such as shooting sports, media & entertainment, and others. On the other hand, the pandemic also created new demand and opportunities in end-use sectors such as security and surveillance.

In the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, specific industries, such as security and surveillance, were significantly impacted. The crisis increased the demand for cameras in these applications serving to monitor large areas and identify potential threats from a distance. This made them ideal in several security settings, such as airports, borders, and critical infrastructure facilities. In addition, long range cameras were widely used in defense and aerospace applications such as missile guidance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance. The rising demand for defense and aerospace equipment is expected to drive the growth of the market.

Despite the challenge, the market growth is expected to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and has resumed its growth trajectory in the year 2022. The growing demand for cameras in the security and surveillance, automotive, and defense & aerospace industry is expected to drive market growth.

RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR IMAPCT

Burgeoning Demand for Long Range Camera for Offensive Strategies to Drive the Market Growth

The Russia-Ukraine War started in early 2022, and persisted for over a year now. The conflict has seen extensive military investments from both sides and with a notable emphasis on electronic equipment over traditional firepower. This electronic nature of the war has seen a growing deployment of cameras across different battlefield platforms as well as for perimeter surveillance.

Long range cameras play a crucial role in enhancing situational awareness, owing to their capability of long range surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and target indentification. Both involved countries increased their usage of cameras in order to increase their offensive strategies while ensuring the safety of border security.

On the other hand, both countries are using drones equipped with cameras for surveillance. Drones are the easiest way to extend the camera’s range by covering more distance.

• For instance, in September 2023, Iranian drone development revealed the existence of a Shahed-136 version powered by a turbojet engine. It is more difficult to intercept compared to the propeller-driven version. This drone has a nose-mounted camera which the previous version lacks, which could improve navigation or enable terminal guidance.


• In addition, the next version of the Shahed-136, known as Shahed 149 Gaza, is an Iranian unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) operated by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. This drone has a day-vision camera with a zoom power ranging from 100 to 120 times, coupled with a thermal imager camera equipped with a laser rangefinder.

Furthermore, the long range cameras are mounted on various platforms such as armored vehicles, anti-aircraft gun for better surveillance as well as target capturing.

• For instance, in December 2022, The Eastern Command of the Regional Defense Forces of Ukraine deployed 20mm Zastava M75 anti-aircraft guns, prominently equipped with two CCTV cameras manufactured by China's Hikvision.


• In addition, in March 2023, the U.K. planned to double the number of main tanks sent to bolster Ukraine's defenses. The British Ministry of Defense intends to double the deployment from 14 to 28. These war-induced developments have stimulated the market for long-range cameras used in defense applications.

Long Range Camera Market Trends

Multispectral Imaging, Integration of Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning are Enhancing the Capability of Long Range Camera in Various Applications

The main trends gaining popularity in the market are multispectral scanning and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and ML. To enhance their ability in a range of end use sectors, the major companies are focusing on these trends. Multispectral imaging refers to techniques that provide visible images in the range of less than a few spectrum channels and sometimes more than 10.

The spectral regions used cover a large part of the infrared and ultraviolet spectrum, often distant from the visible spectrum. A multispectral imager is capable of capturing wavelength channels across a spectrum that includes near-ultraviolet, green, blue, near-infrared, mid-infrared, far-infrared light, red, and thermal radiation for thermal imaging.

• For instance, in January 2023 the U.S. Army Research Office granted USD 4.8 million to Mizzou's professor and his colleague at Notre Dame for the development of new Multispectral Infrared Imaging Systems. The team's using artificial intelligence technology to revolutionize infrared Sensor Functioning.

Patents granted in 2022 for metasurface-integrated microbolometers include networks of small antenna elements, enchancing infrared sensors sensitivity to spectrum and polarization. Using this new grant the researchers will use ML to facilitate metasurface-integrated microbolometers that can be used in extraction of chemical environments recorded by thermal cameras.

• In addition, cool detectors are used for the most sensitive infrared cameras, exhibiting minimal variations in ambient temperature. leveraging blackbody physics, these detectors provide images with high thermal contrast particularly for the part of the spectrum where infrared MWIR is in use. The hightened thermal difference facilitates easier identification of targets than uncooled infrared cameras.

One of the main factors influencing their adoption is that infrared cameras can efficiently filter out the spectrum, revealing features and measurements unavailable to non-cooled thermal camera. High quality images can be obtained from infrared cameras with cooling detectors. Infrared cameras with cooled detectors offer a wide range of advantages compared to thermal imaging camera types that are uncooled.

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Long Range Camera Market Growth Factors

Increased Utility of Long Range Infrared Cameras for Security & Surveillance Applications and Burgeoning Demand in Defense Manufacturing for IR Thermography to Propel the Market Growth 

Ensuring the safety of its citizens is a global priority, prompting public safety agencies to invest in next-generation technologies for more efficient operations. Governments worldwide are introducing new technologies and strategies for ensuring public safety and security owing to a rise in crime rates, anti-social behavior, or the persistent threat of terrorism.

Long range infrared cameras, crucial for defense, homeland security, and perimeter protection are being installed in various fields of surveillance. The market’s growth is driven by improved parameters, such as, outstanding performance, better imaging quality and strong reliability. In order to provide a complete surveillance system for different end uses, the cameras may also be integrated with pan and tilt positioning systems.

• For instance, in April 2023, in order to accommodate 24 small models at a resolution of 320 x 256 pixels, Teledyne FLIR expanded its product line for the Boson+ thermal camera module. Boson+ is a line of long wavelength IRLWIR cameras which are capable of integrating into Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for various applications.


• Additionally, in November 2021, in order to meet the increasing demand for its WESCAM MX series electroluminescent and IR imaging technology, L3Harris established a new state-of-the-art facility at Waterdown in Ontario, Canada that was worth USD 110 million. The WESCAM MX-Series, from L3Harris features multi-spectral, Electro-Optic and Infrared surveillance, targeting systems, and multi-sensor to carry out surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, and intelligence tasks from platforms in the land, sea, and air domains.

Enhanced Surveillance Capabilities and Lucrative Opportunities from Technological Advancements to Boost the Market Growth

Staying on top of possible threats is a key priority for the modern world of security and surveillance. The continuous monitoring of vast ground areas and distant regions necessitates the use of cutting-edge technologies. Shortwave infrared sensors, a new innovative in the security sector that has recently come to light, is also creating an environment of change.

The SWIR sensors detect light within the wavelength range of 900 nm to 1600 nm in the Shortwave Infrared. Unlike traditional cameras, SWIR sensors may be able to capture images in low light conditions and adverse atmospheric situations such as fog, dust and smoke. This inherent ability enables SWIR sensors to offer security personnel a clear view through obstacles, making them highly valuable for wide range surveillance.

Most of the cooled infrared cameras use focal plane InGaAs with low dark currents and a low number of defect pixels. Moreover, infrared cameras operating in the SWIR band are applied for short range tasks particularly in metrology.

• For instance, various companies are developing products to operate across shorter and longer wavelength ranges along with MRLs. The SWIR’s IR cameras enhance vision while promoting passive cooling at different end uses. Operate at a short distances, these cameras are expected to generate revenue opportunities in the global infrared camera market, addressing tasks such as semiconductor analysis, spectroscopy, hyperspectrals, laser beam profiling.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

High Initial Capital Expenditure and Investments in Long Range Camera Hinders the Market Growth 

A major barrier to the widespread application of long-range cameras may be the high associated costs, including various technologies used in their development. Substantial initial capital is often required for the purchase of equipment. The development of a quality infrared camera and sensor, essential for accuracy and reliability, requires high capital expenditure. This financial aspect may discourage SMEs from investing in infrared thermography system due to the price factor of the components required to develop.

Research & Development activities are essential to drive improvements in long range imaging technology, improving its resolution, sensitivity, as well as additional performance characteristics.

In addition, increased research and development costs as well as cost associated with the implementation of new technologiexs could contribute to increasing product prices. Infrared detectors that are cooled have more sensitivity and power than their uncooled rivals, but they also come with a higher price tag.

Long range infrared and thermal cameras incurs significant costs, posing formable obstacles to their widespread adoption, particluarly in developing Countries. The growth of the market is likely to be hindered by a lack of sufficient government funds in emerging countries such as Qatar, and others that are investing in security technologies. Significant investments are needed to exploit the enhanced technologies, which act as a barrier on the infrared camera market. Depending on the features and number of cameras and systems installed, improved surveillance cameras shall be in a variety of ranges for different end uses.

Long Range Camera Market Segmentation Analysis

By Wavelength Analysis

Rising Demand for Homeland Security and Surveillance to Increase Adoption of Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR)

By wavelength, the market is divided into short-wave infrared (SWIR), mid-wave infrared (MWIR), long-wave infrared (LWIR), and others. 

The LWIR segment dominated the market with the largest market share in 2022 and is expected to experience a substantial growth during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to its increasing utility in homeland security, surveillance, object detection, and other scientific & industrial applications. Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) refers to a subset of the infrared spectrum, encompassing wavelengths between 8 and 14 microns.

• For instance, in August 2021, ADASKY, maker of the Viper smart long-wave infrared (LWIR) camera designed for  autonomous vehicles and smart city applications, secured a manufacturing contract from a major U.S. automaker. This aimed to incorportate this technology into its vehicle lineup by 2023, contributing to enhanced road safety.

The short-wave infrared (SWIR) segment is anticipated to experience the fastest growth during the forecast period, driven by a rising need for advanced quality control and product inspection technologies. Short-Wave IR (SWIR) specifically refers to a subset of the infrared spectrum, spanning wavelengths from 1.4 to 3 microns. As this wavelength is beyond the visible range for humans, SWIR imaging frequently yields superior images compared to visible light imaging.

By Platform Analysis

Land Segment Held the Highest Share Owing to Rising demand for Long Range Cameras for Operational Purpose

Based on the platform, the market is segmented into airborne, land, and naval. 

The land segment dominated the market, secured the largest market share in 2022. In land applications, long range cameras play a crucial role and are strategically deployed in training centers, vehicles, surveillance posts, and other critical areas, serving as vigilance eye for warfare personnel.

• For instance, in January 2022, Silent Sentinel delivered nine  Jaegar Ranger 225 Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) thermal platforms to an airfield, each equipped with a 500mm HD low-light camera.

The airborne segment is anticipated to be the fastest growing segment owing to the highest CAGR during the projection period. In airborne applications, cameras plays a pivotal role in training both commercial and fighter pilots, as well as radar operators, focusing on purposes such as surveillance and target acquisition.

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By Focal Length Analysis

Above 800 mm Segment to Dominate Market Owing to Demand form Defense Operations

Based on the focal length, the market is divided into below 200 mm, 200 - 400 mm, 400 -800 mm, and above 800 mm.

The above 800 mm segment dominates the market and is the fastest growing segment during 2023-2030. The focal length is measured in mm from the optical centre of the lens to the camera's sensor, where light information is recorded. The longer focal lengths of above 800 mm are generally referred to as telephoto lenses. More distance compression and reduced distortion at long focal lengths can be witnessed, regardless of Zoom or Prime lens. Growing demand for long range cameras for ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) from the defense sector can catalyze the market growth.

• For instance, in October 2020, HGH Infrared Systems secured contracts worth approximately USD 6.5 million from the world's leading shipyards in the Middle East and Europe to equip new warships with SPYNEL panoramic thermal cameras and  their new IRST solution. The rise of new technology forces navies to enhance their defense, detection, and threat monitoring capabilities. HGH accepted this challenge, addressing the growing demand  for IRST systems and launched its new IRST solution based on  SPYNEL technology at the Euronaval 2020 event.

By Camera Installation Analysis

Fixed Installation Segment Leads the Market Due to Growing Demand For Aerial Surveying And Mapping

Based on camera intsallation, the market is divided into fixed installation, portable, and platform-mounted. The fixed installation segment dominates the market and is the fastest growing segment during 2023-2030.

Once a fixed camera is installed, the cabling they rely upon means there' is no simple way of moving them, hence, the term 'fixed’ is used. That is to say, they can only be used for monitoring applications if the requirements arises, fields of view and risk are constant. Growing demand for aerial surveying and mapping is driving the growth of the market.

• For instance, in March 2020, Incheon International Airport selected FLIR thermal cameras in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The airport activated a three-step screening protocol to identify users with elevated skin temperatures during all departing flights. At that time, all airport users  were required to undergo three advanced skin temperature screenings: at the departure level entrance, at the immigration counter, and at the boarding gate.

By Application Analysis

Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, And Reconnaissance (ISTAR) Segment Dominates owing to Growing Demand from Law Enforcement Agencies

By application, the market is segmented into designated marksman target spotting & range detection, intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR), command and control, long range shooting sports spotting & range detection, counter-unmanned aerial systems operations, forest & wildlife protection, inspection, surveying & mapping, disaster monitoring, aerial photography & cinematography, and others.

The market is dominated by the Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) segment and is expected to grow significantly due to increasing product demand from law enforcement and government agencies to monitor and protect the public and assets against potential threats and unauthorized access.

• For instance, in November 2022, Gilmour Space Technologies and Macquarie University announced a partnership to develop and manufacture infrared sensors that would be attached to  a planned satellite  in late 2023.

The command and control segment is expected to be the fastest growing segment due to increasing product demand from the defense and homeland security sector. Command and control comprises examining, vigilance and evaluating activities, a process, or an object to ensure full safety and security.

By End-User Analysis

Defense sector Dominates Due to Increasing Use of Infrared Thermography for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance

By end-user, the market is segregated into defense, homeland security, shooting sports, forestry & wildlife conservation, disaster management services, media & entertainment, geospatial research institutes, and others.

The defense segment dominates the market and is fastest growing segment, driven by the expanding applications of infrared thermography in intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance. Deployed soldiers employ systematic observation along with a variety of electrical sensors on the battlefield to gather critical information. Surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance methods are essential components of obtaining this information.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

Based on geography, the market is studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America. The market share is estimated to be dominated by North America, followed by Europe, and Asia Pacific.

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North America led the market in 2022 with the valuation of USD 3.10 billion in 2022. The growth is driven by the presence of major OEMs and increasing mergers and acquisitions in the region. For example, in May 2021, Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, an American company specializing in digital imaging products and equipment, completed the acquisition of FLIR Systems for USD 8.2 billion. This acquisition bolstered Teledyne's capabilities and extended its reach in the North American market, fortifying its overall position in the market.

Europe led with the second largest market share in 2022 due to the growing demand for infrared thermography in the healthcare industry in the region. For example, in March 2023, the UK Technology Transfer Agency (GOTT) provided funding for the advancement of an innovative thermal imaging technique created by (NPL) the National Physical Laboratory (NPL).

Asia Pacific also held a one of the majority market shares in 2022 and is also expected to be the region with fastest growing CAGR during the study period. The rapid growth of the region is due to extensive industrialization and rapid infrastructure development in countries such as India, Japan, China, and South Korea. The market growth is significantly influenced by increased demand for infrared cameras in the manufacturing and construction sector along with the region and increasing expenditure on defense and security.

The global market in the Middle East & Africa is expected to grow moderately during the forecast period due to the growing demand for monitoring and control technologies in the oil and gas sector.

Even though Latin America is one of the least developed markets globally, it holds a considerable growth potentia. The U.S. is influencing military procurement in Latin America through several bilateral initiatives, such as Plan Colombia and the Merida Initiative, which are expected to generate more contracts for U.S.-based companies in the region in the years to come. Local manufacturers can compete with larger foreign players by upgrading their products with state-of-the-art technologies, thereby boosting their regional presence.

List of Key Long Range Camera Market Companies

Technological Advancements, Product Innovations, and Mergers & Acquisitions are Key Focus of Leading Players

Dominating the global market share are key players including Zhejiang Dali Technology Ltd., Leonardo DRS, Inc., Fluke Corporation, Inc., Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, L3 Harris Technologies, and other significant contributors. These key players are directing their efforts toward technological advancements, mergers & acquisitions, and product innovationsto enhance their market share.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• i3 System, Inc (South Korea)


• BAE Systems Plc (U.K.)


• Leonardo S.p.A. (Italy)


• Thales Group (France)


• L3 Harris Technologies, Inc (U.S.)


• Fluke Corporation (U.S.)


• Axis Communications AB (Sweden)


• Senspex Inc. (New Mexico)


• Excelitas Technologies Corporation (U.S.)


• Teledyne FLIR LLC (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• November 2022 - Teledyne FLIR, a subsidiary of Teledyne Technologies Inc., announced the FLIR ONE® Edge Pro, a wireless thermal visible camera on mobile devices. Unlike previous versions, the reimagined FLIRONE Edge Pro no longer requires a physically connected with a companion mobile device, providing maximum flexibility for thermal inspection without the need for separate models for specific operating systems.


• February 2021 – Northrop Grumman and the Raytheon , Company for a program to develop new event-based infrared camera technologies aimed at transmitting essential information in the visual environment. Raytheon and Northrop Grumman were awarded contracts totaling USD 16.27 million for the second stage of the program


• June 2023 - InfraTec presented a new generation of SWIR infrared cameras, namely the ImageIR® 8100 and ImageIR® 9100. These high resolution and radiometrically calibrated SWIR infrared cameras expanded the range of high-definition cameras for thermographic temperature measurement in the short-wave infrared range.


• May 2023 - Leonardo DRS, Inc. demonstrated its advanced radiometer technology for space-based Earth and surface temperature measurement in collaboration with NASA, utilizing the distinctive thermal imaging radiometer technology in the multi-band uncooled SmallSat Imaging Radiometer (MUSIR) payload. This pioneering use of MUSIR is an important step towards building constellations of small and cost-effective satellites.


• January 2023 - The U.S. Army Research Office awarded a grant of USD 4.8 million to Mizzou's professor and his colleague at Notre Dame for the development of new Multispectral Infrared Imaging Systems. The team utilized artificial intelligence technology to revolutionize infrared sensor functioning, representing a notable advancements in the field.

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The market research report gives an in-depth analysis of the cameras market by identifying the leading companies in the market, product types in the market, and the leading applications in the market. Moreover, it offers insights into the market forecast, trends, regional analysis, porter’s five forces analysis, competitive landscape of various companies profiled, and market competition, and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the above-mentioned factors, the report focuses on several factors that have contributed to the global market’s growth in recent years.

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