Riot Control Equipment Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

Riot Control Equipment Market Analysis

The Riot Control Equipment Market size is estimated at USD 12.65 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 16.03 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.86% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The riot control equipment industry is undergoing significant technological transformation, with manufacturers increasingly focusing on developing advanced materials and innovative solutions. The integration of composite materials and lightweight technologies in protective riot equipment has become a cornerstone of product development, enabling enhanced mobility and protection for law enforcement personnel. This technological evolution is particularly evident in the personal protective equipment segment, where manufacturers are incorporating advanced ballistic fibers and impact-resistant materials to create more effective and comfortable gear for extended use.

The industry is witnessing a notable shift towards the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and advanced surveillance technologies in riot control operations. According to recent data, over 1,172 police departments across the United States have incorporated drones into their operations, marking a significant advancement in crowd monitoring and situation assessment capabilities. These technological implementations have revolutionized the approach to crowd control, enabling law enforcement agencies to maintain better situational awareness while minimizing direct confrontation risks.

The market is experiencing a substantial transformation in terms of less-lethal riot control weapons technologies and their deployment protocols. A significant development occurred in March 2022 when Italian police forces in 18 cities were authorized to deploy approximately 5,000 tasers, demonstrating the growing acceptance of advanced less-lethal weapons across major metropolitan areas. This trend reflects the broader industry movement towards more sophisticated and controlled crowd management solutions that prioritize minimal force application while maintaining effectiveness.

The industry landscape is increasingly shaped by the emergence of directed energy weapons (DEW) and sophisticated riot control devices. Major defense contractors and specialized riot control equipment manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development of next-generation technologies, including acoustic devices, laser-induced plasma effects, and advanced riot control vehicles. These developments are complemented by the integration of smart technologies and sensor systems in riot control equipment, enabling better coordination and response capabilities for law enforcement agencies. The market has seen particular advancement in the development of multi-functional riot control vehicles equipped with various non-lethal weapon systems, surveillance equipment, and protective features.

Riot Control Equipment Market Trends

Increasing Political Disputes and Civil Unrest

The escalating frequency and intensity of political disputes and civil unrest across major regions have exposed significant security vulnerabilities, necessitating enhanced riot control gear measures. This trend is particularly evident in the United States, where 2023 witnessed a concerning 20% increase in mass shootings compared to 2019 levels, highlighting the growing challenges faced by law enforcement agencies. The nature of civil demonstrations has evolved significantly, with protesters becoming more organized through social media coordination and developing sophisticated tactics that challenge traditional crowd control equipment methods. This evolution has created an urgent need for advanced riot protection equipment to maintain public order while ensuring the safety of both law enforcement personnel and civilians.

Recent events underscore the persistent demand for effective public order equipment measures, as demonstrated by the April 2024 incident where Georgia police deployed rubber bullets and tear gas to manage university protests. The increasing sophistication of protest movements, coupled with the proliferation of social media-coordinated actions, has compelled law enforcement agencies to reassess and upgrade their police crowd control equipment capabilities. Furthermore, the complexity of modern civil unrest situations has highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to crowd management, incorporating both defensive and offensive equipment to effectively respond to various levels of threat while minimizing the risk of casualties.

Increasing Focus on Equipping the Riot Control Forces with the Latest Equipment

Law enforcement agencies and special forces are actively modernizing their riot control gear arsenals with state-of-the-art technology to enhance their operational effectiveness and safety. This commitment to modernization is exemplified by recent procurement initiatives, such as the December 2023 Alpharetta City Council's five-year agreement with Galls for concealable body armor, valued at approximately $35,000 for FY 2024, supported by a $17,000 bulletproof vest grant from the US Department of Justice. These investments reflect a growing recognition of the need to equip officers with advanced protective gear that can withstand modern threats while maintaining mobility and comfort during extended deployments.

The industry is witnessing significant technological advancements, as demonstrated by the September 2023 collaboration between Ace Link Armor and Glágio do Brasil, which introduced NIJ-certified hard armor plates capable of withstanding high-powered rifle rounds. The Pentagon's Joint Intermediate Force Capabilities Office (JIFCO) is actively developing next-generation riot control technologies, including long-range wireless taser bullets and sonic weapons capable of disabling vehicles from 150 feet away. These innovations represent a broader trend toward developing more effective, less-lethal options that provide law enforcement with a wider range of response options while minimizing the risk of serious injury to both officers and civilians.

Segment Analysis: By Product Type

Offensive Equipment Segment in Riot Control Equipment Market

The Offensive Equipment segment dominates the riot control equipment market, commanding approximately 71% of the total market share in 2024. This segment encompasses a comprehensive range of products, including area denial systems, ammunition, explosives, gases and sprays, directed energy weapons, and electroshock weapons. The segment's dominance is primarily driven by increasing investments in advanced riot control weapons and growing demand for non-lethal weapons from law enforcement agencies. The segment is also experiencing the fastest growth in the market, supported by technological advancements in directed energy weapons and the development of more sophisticated crowd control solutions. Manufacturers are focusing on developing innovative products with improved accuracy and effectiveness while minimizing the risk of serious injuries, which has further strengthened this segment's market position.

Personal Protective Equipment Segment in Riot Control Equipment Market

The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) segment plays a crucial role in the riot control equipment market, providing essential protection to law enforcement personnel and special forces. This segment includes vital equipment such as vests, helmets, gas masks, and shields, designed to ensure the safety of officers during riot control operations. The segment's growth is driven by increasing emphasis on officer safety and the development of lighter, more durable materials for protective gear. Manufacturers are incorporating advanced materials and ergonomic designs to improve comfort and mobility while maintaining high protection standards. The integration of new technologies like composite materials and improved ballistic protection has enhanced the effectiveness of personal protective equipment, making it an indispensable component of modern riot control operations.

Segment Analysis: By End User

Law Enforcement Segment in Riot Control Equipment Market

The law enforcement segment dominates the riot control equipment market, holding approximately 73% market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the extensive deployment of riot equipment by police forces, federal agencies, and local law enforcement units across North America and Europe. Law enforcement agencies utilize a diverse range of equipment, including tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and other non-lethal weapons, to effectively maintain public order while minimizing casualties. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by increasing government investments in equipping law enforcement personnel with advanced riot control gear, particularly in response to evolving protest dynamics and public safety requirements. The adoption of sophisticated less-lethal weapons by police departments, coupled with ongoing modernization initiatives and enhanced training programs, continues to solidify the segment's leading position in the market.

Special Forces Segment in Riot Control Equipment Market

The special forces segment is experiencing rapid growth in the riot control equipment market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 8% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is attributed to the increasing involvement of special forces in crowd control operations where conventional weapons usage is restricted or prohibited. The segment's expansion is driven by the growing emphasis on developing specialized crowd control equipment that aligns with strict rules of engagement while ensuring minimal casualties. Special forces are increasingly adopting advanced riot control technologies, including sophisticated less-lethal ammunition solutions and innovative delivery systems. The segment's growth is further supported by ongoing research and development activities in acoustic, microwave, infrared, radio frequency-based, and laser technologies, specifically designed for special forces applications in complex urban environments.

Riot Control Equipment Market Geography Segment Analysis

Riot Control Equipment Market in North America

The North American riot control equipment market encompasses a comprehensive range of defensive and offensive equipment used by law enforcement agencies and special forces. The region's market is primarily driven by increasing civil unrest, political disputes, and the growing focus on equipping riot control forces with advanced technologies. Both the United States and Canada have been making significant investments in modernizing their riot police equipment capabilities, with particular emphasis on less-lethal weapons and personal protective equipment. The market dynamics are shaped by stringent regulations governing the use of riot equipment and increasing demand for more sophisticated crowd control solutions.

Riot Control Equipment Market in United States

The United States dominates the North American riot control equipment market, holding approximately 97% market share in 2024. The country's market is characterized by substantial investments in advanced riot control technologies and equipment modernization programs. Law enforcement agencies across different states are increasingly focusing on acquiring next-generation personal protective equipment and less-lethal weapons. The Pentagon's Joint Intermediate Force Capabilities Office continues to lead research and development initiatives for innovative riot control solutions, including laser-induced plasma effects and advanced acoustic devices. The market is also seeing increased adoption of body-worn cameras and integrated communication systems as part of comprehensive crowd control gear strategies.

Riot Control Equipment Market in Canada

Canada represents the fastest-growing market in North America, with a projected growth rate of approximately 7% during 2024-2029. The country's market is witnessing increased adoption of advanced riot equipment, particularly in major metropolitan areas. Canadian law enforcement agencies are placing greater emphasis on less-lethal weapons and personal protective equipment, with a focus on improving officer safety while maintaining effective crowd control capabilities. The market is characterized by growing investments in conducted energy weapons, tactical gear, and advanced riot control vehicles. Provincial and federal authorities are implementing comprehensive training programs to ensure proper utilization of riot control equipment, while maintaining strict adherence to use-of-force protocols.

Riot Control Equipment Market in Europe

The European riot control equipment market demonstrates a complex landscape influenced by varying national regulations and requirements across different countries. The region encompasses major markets including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy, each with distinct approaches to riot control and crowd management. European countries are increasingly focusing on developing and implementing less-lethal technologies while maintaining strict protocols regarding the use of riot equipment. The market is characterized by growing investments in personal protective equipment and advanced crowd control solutions, with particular emphasis on reducing collateral damage during riot control operations.

Riot Control Equipment Market in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom leads the European market, commanding approximately 21% market share in 2024. The country's market is characterized by significant investments in modernizing riot control capabilities, particularly in metropolitan areas. British law enforcement agencies are increasingly adopting advanced personal protective equipment and less-lethal weapons systems. The market is seeing growing emphasis on integrated solutions that combine traditional riot control equipment with modern surveillance and communication technologies. The UK government continues to maintain strict regulations regarding the use of riot control equipment while supporting research and development of more effective and safer crowd control solutions.

Riot Control Equipment Market in Italy

Italy emerges as the fastest-growing market in Europe, with a projected growth rate of approximately 4% during 2024-2029. The Italian market is witnessing significant transformations in its approach to riot control equipment procurement and deployment. Law enforcement agencies across the country are increasingly adopting modern riot control technologies, with particular focus on personal protective equipment and less-lethal weapons. The market is characterized by growing investments in advanced crowd control solutions and increasing adoption of integrated communication systems. Italian authorities are placing greater emphasis on training programs to ensure effective and appropriate use of riot control equipment while maintaining public safety standards.