Riot Control Equipment Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Vests, Helmets, Gas Masks, Shields, Others), By Applications (Law Enforcement, Military, Others) , and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2034

Riot Control Equipment Market Size

The Global Riot Control Equipment Market size was USD 2.07 billion in 2024 and is projected to touch USD 2.14 billion in 2025, USD 2.23 billion in 2026, and reach USD 3 billion by 2034, exhibiting a growth rate of 3.8% during the forecast period 2025–2034. The market is expanding due to rising investments in protective gear, with over 55% demand coming from law enforcement and nearly 30% driven by military modernization, while 15% comes from private security and other applications.

The US Riot Control Equipment Market is experiencing steady growth, driven by modernization of law enforcement agencies and increased focus on public safety. Around 62% of police forces in the country have adopted advanced protective equipment, while nearly 48% use smart surveillance solutions. Non-lethal weapons account for 38% of total demand, and nearly 28% of procurement is focused on shields and helmets. The US contributes nearly 60% of North America’s regional share, reflecting its dominant position in the global market.

Key Findings

• Market Size: USD 2.07 billion (2024), USD 2.14 billion (2025), USD 3 billion (2034), 3.8% CAGR during the forecast period.
• Growth Drivers: 65% law enforcement adoption, 48% focus on protective gear, 36% investment in AI surveillance, 42% demand for non-lethal weapons.
• Trends: 55% rise in smart helmets, 41% focus on digital monitoring, 33% demand for lightweight shields, 29% development of eco-friendly solutions.
• Key Players: BAE Systems, Taser International, Lrad Corporation, The Safariland Group, Raytheon & more.
• Regional Insights: North America holds 32% of the market share driven by advanced law enforcement modernization. Europe follows with 27% supported by strict regulatory compliance. Asia-Pacific accounts for 28% led by rising urban security investments. Middle East & Africa contributes 13% fueled by defense and paramilitary procurement, completing the global 100% distribution.
• Challenges: 52% affordability barriers, 47% public opposition, 38% misuse concerns, 29% regulatory restrictions, affecting adoption and perception globally.
• Industry Impact: 65% shift to non-lethal weapons, 58% preference for protective gear, 42% increase in smart surveillance across law enforcement agencies.
• Recent Developments: 25% rise in smart armor launches, 18% taser upgrades, 22% extended tear gas use, 20% acoustic devices, 15% lightweight shields.

The Riot Control Equipment Market is rapidly transforming with increasing reliance on non-lethal weapons, AI-powered surveillance, and protective gear. Around 62% of procurement worldwide is for law enforcement modernization, while 35% comes from defense and paramilitary organizations. Private security applications contribute 10% of global demand, highlighting growing adoption in emerging economies. With 54% of manufacturers focusing on innovative designs like smart helmets and modular shields, the market is aligning with global safety standards while addressing ethical concerns.

Riot Control Equipment Market Trends

The riot control equipment market is witnessing significant adoption driven by the increasing demand for protective gear, non-lethal weapons, and surveillance tools. Law enforcement agencies account for over 65% of the total usage, while private security and defense forces contribute nearly 35% of demand. Protective gear such as helmets, shields, and body armor represents more than 40% of the product demand, followed by non-lethal weapons like tear gas, rubber bullets, and stun grenades at 30%, with communication and surveillance equipment covering 20%. The Asia-Pacific region holds around 38% of the global market share, led by countries with rising investments in law enforcement modernization. North America follows with approximately 30% share due to growing civil unrest management requirements, while Europe contributes 25% with a strong focus on compliance and safety regulations. Additionally, about 55% of end-users prefer advanced digital riot control systems integrated with AI-enabled monitoring, compared to 45% still relying on conventional gear. The demand for smart body-worn cameras has surged by over 25% in the past few years, showcasing the shift toward real-time intelligence and accountability in public safety measures.

Riot Control Equipment Market Dynamics

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion of Smart Surveillance Systems

Over 58% of global law enforcement agencies are adopting smart surveillance systems to strengthen riot control operations. Nearly 42% of urban police forces already use AI-powered cameras and drones for real-time crowd monitoring, while 36% are testing wearable sensors for officers. With more than 60% of decision-makers prioritizing digital integration, smart surveillance offers a massive growth opportunity in the riot control equipment market.

DRIVERS

Increasing Demand for Non-Lethal Weapons

More than 65% of riot control forces globally are shifting toward non-lethal weapons to reduce public injuries. Around 48% of procurement budgets are allocated to rubber bullets, stun grenades, and tear gas, while 32% focus on tasers and pepper sprays. Approximately 55% of police agencies highlight non-lethal technologies as the primary driver for upgrading their riot control arsenals.

RESTRAINTS

"High Procurement and Maintenance Costs"

Almost 52% of small and mid-sized law enforcement organizations face difficulties in affording advanced riot control equipment due to high initial costs. About 40% of agencies allocate budgets only for basic helmets, shields, and batons, avoiding digital and AI-based gear. Additionally, 33% of users highlight that maintenance expenses for advanced technologies remain a barrier to long-term adoption, restraining widespread deployment.

CHALLENGE

"Public Perception and Ethical Concerns"

Nearly 47% of global civil rights groups oppose the use of riot control weapons, citing misuse risks and human rights issues. Around 38% of the public perceives tear gas and rubber bullets as excessively harmful despite being classified as non-lethal. With 29% of international watchdogs demanding stricter regulations, the market faces an ongoing challenge of balancing operational effectiveness with ethical and legal acceptance.

Segmentation Analysis

The global riot control equipment market was valued at USD 2.07 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2.14 Billion in 2025, with further growth expected to USD 3 Billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 3.8% from 2025 to 2034. The market is segmented by type into vests, helmets, gas masks, shields, and others, each contributing uniquely to the overall market performance. By application, the market is classified into law enforcement, military, and others, with law enforcement remaining the leading consumer base. Each type and application has a distinct growth trajectory, with detailed market size, share, and CAGR estimates for 2025 outlined below.

By Type

Vests

Riot control vests are increasingly demanded due to rising concerns over officer safety, accounting for nearly 28% of total equipment use. Approximately 46% of law enforcement units prioritize protective vests, and 32% of military procurement also includes ballistic-grade body vests.

Vests held a significant share in the riot control equipment market, accounting for USD 0.60 Billion in 2025, representing 28% of the total market. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2025 to 2034, driven by rising safety regulations and defense modernization.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Vests Segment

• United States led the vests segment with a market size of USD 0.18 Billion in 2025, holding a 30% share and expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.7% due to strong police procurement and defense programs.
• China followed with USD 0.14 Billion in 2025, accounting for 23% share, with a CAGR of 4.2% due to rapid modernization and urban crowd control initiatives.
• India contributed USD 0.10 Billion in 2025, holding 16% share and growing at 4.0% CAGR due to increasing investment in paramilitary protection gear.

Helmets

Riot control helmets are one of the most essential protective gears, with 25% of demand linked to law enforcement agencies and 20% driven by military applications. Around 55% of helmets now include visors and impact-resistant designs.

Helmets captured USD 0.54 Billion in 2025, representing 25% of the overall market, and are expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% through 2034, fueled by urban policing needs and rising investment in protective headgear.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Helmets Segment

• United States dominated with USD 0.16 Billion in 2025, 30% share, CAGR of 3.5% driven by advanced safety standards in law enforcement.
• Germany followed with USD 0.11 Billion in 2025, 21% share, CAGR of 3.8% due to strict compliance and police modernization budgets.
• Brazil accounted for USD 0.09 Billion in 2025, 17% share, CAGR of 4.0% with increasing focus on riot management in urban regions.

Gas Masks

Gas masks form a critical part of riot control, with nearly 22% of total usage share. Around 48% of police forces deploy gas masks regularly, while 35% of armed forces rely on advanced filtration masks for chemical exposure protection.

Gas masks segment was valued at USD 0.47 Billion in 2025, accounting for 22% of the market, with an expected CAGR of 4.0% from 2025 to 2034, driven by rising concerns about chemical crowd dispersal methods.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Gas Masks Segment

• United States led with USD 0.14 Billion in 2025, 30% share, CAGR of 3.9% due to heavy deployment in police and homeland security forces.
• China followed with USD 0.12 Billion in 2025, 26% share, CAGR of 4.2% due to mass procurement for security forces.
• United Kingdom accounted for USD 0.09 Billion in 2025, 19% share, CAGR of 3.8% due to emphasis on riot preparedness and compliance.

Shields

Riot shields are vital defensive equipment, representing 15% of the overall demand. Around 52% of police forces prioritize lightweight polycarbonate shields, while 28% of military procurement also includes tactical riot shields.

Shields held USD 0.32 Billion in 2025, representing 15% of the market, with an expected CAGR of 3.5% until 2034, driven by increasing deployment in urban riot management.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Shields Segment

• United States dominated with USD 0.10 Billion in 2025, 31% share, CAGR of 3.3% due to frequent use in law enforcement operations.
• France followed with USD 0.07 Billion in 2025, 22% share, CAGR of 3.7% due to high investment in tactical police gear.
• Mexico contributed USD 0.05 Billion in 2025, 15% share, CAGR of 3.9% due to expanding adoption among national guard forces.

Others

The others segment includes batons, stun devices, and communication tools, accounting for around 10% of the market. Nearly 60% of police units in developing nations still rely heavily on these traditional riot control tools.

Others segment accounted for USD 0.21 Billion in 2025, representing 10% of the total market, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.2% through 2034, driven by affordability and widespread adoption in emerging markets.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Others Segment

• India led with USD 0.07 Billion in 2025, 33% share, CAGR of 3.4% due to reliance on batons and basic equipment.
• South Africa followed with USD 0.05 Billion in 2025, 24% share, CAGR of 3.3% due to frequent deployment in public protests.
• Philippines contributed USD 0.04 Billion in 2025, 19% share, CAGR of 3.1% due to law enforcement affordability requirements.

By Application

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement represents the largest application area, making up around 55% of total market demand. Over 62% of urban policing agencies use riot control gear regularly, while 44% of police departments in developing regions are increasing adoption of protective and non-lethal weapons.

Law enforcement held USD 1.18 Billion in 2025, representing 55% share of the global market, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% until 2034, supported by rising urbanization, public safety concerns, and police modernization programs.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Law Enforcement Segment

• United States led with USD 0.35 Billion in 2025, 30% share, CAGR of 3.7% due to large-scale procurement for police and homeland security.
• China followed with USD 0.28 Billion in 2025, 24% share, CAGR of 4.1% due to growing domestic security investment.
• Brazil accounted for USD 0.20 Billion in 2025, 17% share, CAGR of 3.8% due to increasing urban unrest management programs.

Military

The military segment accounts for 35% of global demand, with 58% of national armed forces including riot control gear in crowd management strategies. Around 40% of demand is for protective armor and non-lethal weapons integration.

Military applications reached USD 0.75 Billion in 2025, representing 35% of the global market, with a CAGR of 3.7% through 2034, driven by rising defense budgets and modernization of paramilitary forces.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Military Segment

• United States led with USD 0.24 Billion in 2025, 32% share, CAGR of 3.6% supported by strong defense infrastructure.
• Russia followed with USD 0.18 Billion in 2025, 24% share, CAGR of 3.9% due to paramilitary modernization.
• India contributed USD 0.15 Billion in 2025, 20% share, CAGR of 4.0% due to expanding military police and internal security deployment.

Others

Other applications include private security forces and correctional facilities, representing 10% of the global demand. Around 42% of private security firms in developing countries rely on shields and batons, while 30% also use basic protective gear.

Others application accounted for USD 0.21 Billion in 2025, representing 10% of the market, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.3% by 2034, driven by affordability and rising adoption in emerging economies.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Others Application Segment

• India led with USD 0.07 Billion in 2025, 33% share, CAGR of 3.5% due to reliance on private security gear.
• South Africa followed with USD 0.05 Billion in 2025, 24% share, CAGR of 3.2% driven by public security firms.
• Philippines accounted for USD 0.04 Billion in 2025, 19% share, CAGR of 3.1% with rising investment in correctional facility equipment.

Riot Control Equipment Market Regional Outlook

The global riot control equipment market was valued at USD 2.07 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2.14 Billion in 2025, with further growth expected to USD 3 Billion by 2034, showing a CAGR of 3.8%. North America accounted for 32% of the global share in 2025, Europe represented 27%, Asia-Pacific held 28%, and the Middle East & Africa captured 13%. Each region reflects a unique trend, influenced by law enforcement policies, defense modernization, and rising public safety concerns.

North America

North America remains the leading region for riot control equipment, representing 32% of the global market share in 2025. Around 54% of police forces in the United States are equipped with advanced non-lethal weapons, while 40% of Canadian agencies prioritize surveillance integration. Mexico contributes nearly 12% of regional demand with rising security modernization.

North America accounted for USD 0.68 Billion in 2025, representing 32% of the total market. This growth is driven by advanced procurement programs, homeland security investments, and increasing law enforcement modernization.

North America - Major Dominant Countries in the Market

• United States led with USD 0.41 Billion in 2025, 60% share, driven by large-scale police procurement and advanced safety standards.
• Canada followed with USD 0.17 Billion in 2025, 25% share, with strong focus on protective gear modernization.
• Mexico contributed USD 0.10 Billion in 2025, 15% share, with increased adoption in public security forces.

Europe

Europe accounted for 27% of the global share in 2025, driven by strict regulations on riot control equipment usage and rising investments in urban policing. Nearly 48% of European police forces utilize helmets and shields as mandatory equipment, while 38% are transitioning to smart surveillance solutions. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK dominate regional adoption.

Europe recorded USD 0.58 Billion in 2025, representing 27% of the global market, supported by modernization policies, regulatory compliance, and increased spending on safety technologies.

Europe - Major Dominant Countries in the Market

• Germany led with USD 0.19 Billion in 2025, 33% share, driven by strong compliance and tactical equipment procurement.
• France followed with USD 0.16 Billion in 2025, 28% share, emphasizing riot control shields and body armor.
• United Kingdom contributed USD 0.13 Billion in 2025, 22% share, with high demand for helmets and non-lethal weapons.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific holds 28% of the global riot control equipment market share in 2025. Around 52% of demand in this region comes from police forces managing urban unrest, while 33% comes from military modernization programs. China, India, and Japan are the top contributors, with increasing budgets for riot control systems.

Asia-Pacific accounted for USD 0.60 Billion in 2025, representing 28% of the total market, fueled by rapid urbanization, rising protests, and expanding investment in protective gear.

Asia-Pacific - Major Dominant Countries in the Market

• China led with USD 0.23 Billion in 2025, 38% share, driven by large-scale procurement and modernization efforts.
• India followed with USD 0.18 Billion in 2025, 30% share, due to increasing paramilitary deployment and public security programs.
• Japan accounted for USD 0.11 Billion in 2025, 18% share, focusing on advanced riot control helmets and surveillance integration.

Middle East & Africa

Middle East & Africa captured 13% of the global market share in 2025. Nearly 42% of demand comes from crowd control in politically sensitive regions, while 29% comes from defense and paramilitary forces. South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and UAE dominate this region with strong investments in non-lethal weapons.

Middle East & Africa accounted for USD 0.28 Billion in 2025, representing 13% of the global market, supported by growing security concerns and modernization of riot control units.

Middle East & Africa - Major Dominant Countries in the Market

• Saudi Arabia led with USD 0.11 Billion in 2025, 39% share, with major spending on non-lethal crowd control tools.
• United Arab Emirates followed with USD 0.09 Billion in 2025, 32% share, investing in advanced surveillance and tactical gear.
• South Africa contributed USD 0.06 Billion in 2025, 21% share, focusing on police riot management operations.

List of Key Riot Control Equipment Market Companies Profiled

Investment Analysis and Opportunities in Riot Control Equipment Market

Investments in the riot control equipment market are rising steadily, with more than 62% of global law enforcement budgets now allocated toward advanced protective and non-lethal solutions. Around 48% of investors highlight AI-powered surveillance and smart wearable devices as key opportunity areas. Approximately 36% of defense procurement focuses on integrating drones and body cameras for riot control. Emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and Africa represent nearly 27% of new investment flows, while 42% of stakeholders identify public-private partnerships as a strong growth opportunity for future expansion.

New Products Development

Innovation in riot control equipment is shaping the future of public safety, with 54% of manufacturers introducing smart helmets integrated with communication systems. Nearly 41% of new product launches in 2024 focused on AI-driven surveillance tools, while 33% were centered on advanced protective gear like lightweight shields and vests. Around 29% of companies are developing eco-friendly non-lethal ammunition to reduce environmental impact. Additionally, 38% of global firms are investing in modular designs to enable multipurpose riot control tools adaptable to urban and rural environments.

Recent Developments

• BAE Systems: Introduced next-gen smart body armor covering 25% more surface protection, enhancing officer safety in urban crowd management.
• Taser International: Expanded product portfolio with a new taser model, reducing injury rates by 18% in field tests.
• Lrad Corporation: Launched an upgraded long-range acoustic device with 20% higher sound projection for crowd control efficiency.
• The Safariland Group: Rolled out lightweight polycarbonate shields, cutting weight by 15% while maintaining durability.
• Combined Systems: Developed advanced tear gas grenades with a 22% longer dispersal effect, improving area coverage.

Report Coverage

The riot control equipment market report provides comprehensive coverage of market dynamics, segmentation, and regional analysis, offering a deep dive into growth patterns. SWOT analysis highlights strengths such as 65% adoption of non-lethal weapons and 58% preference for protective gear. Weaknesses include high procurement costs, with 52% of small agencies facing affordability challenges. Opportunities are driven by 48% investment in AI surveillance and 36% demand for advanced communication tools. Challenges stem from ethical concerns, with 47% of advocacy groups opposing excessive force. The report also covers competitive profiling of major companies, technological advancements, and strategic developments, enabling stakeholders to identify growth opportunities, overcome barriers, and leverage emerging market trends effectively across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa.