Global arms transfers reach record highs in 2025, driven by global tension

 

The increase in international geopolitical tensions This has become clear in the global defense market. According to the latest data from Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), arms transfers have reached in 2025 its peak since the end of the Cold War, reflecting a complex scenario of rebalancing forces on a planetary scale.

 

Rise of the arms trade and export hegemony

 

The report released by the Círculo de Empresarios reveals that the volume of arms transfers in the period 2021 - 2025 has experienced a growth of 9% compared to the previous five-year period. This rebound is measured through the Value-Trend Index, a metric that uses constant production costs to allow rigorous comparisons between different periods and nations.

 

On the supply side, Estados Unidos reinforces its position of absolute dominance in the global market, concentrating the 42 % of total exports. They are followed, at a considerable distance, by European and Asian powers that make up the top 5 from global suppliers. It is noteworthy that the market remains highly concentrated in a small group of developed nations.

 

Top Exporters (2021-2025)	Market Share (%)
Estados Unidos	42 %
Francia	10 %
Rusia	7%
Alemania	6%
China	6%

 

Main recipients: The impact of regional conflicts

 

The demand for weapons is closely linked to current hotspots of instability. Ucrania has become the largest global receiver, absorbing the 10 % of total international shipments. This trend underscores the magnitude of external military support in the context of the war. Other areas of significant demand are located in Middle East and the South of Asia, where countries like India, Arabia Saudí y Qatar They maintain high-intensity acquisition programs.

 

• Ucrania: 10% of the total reception volume.
• India: 8% of global acquisitions.
• Arabia Saudí: 7% of the receiving market.
• Qatar: 6% of imports.
• Pakistán: 4% of global flow.

 

Spain's position on the international stage

 

Regarding the national role, España It maintains strategic relevance as an exporting power. Currently, it occupies the since 10º in the global ranking of exporters, representing the 3% of the total volume of transfers. In contrast, its dependence on imports is significantly lower, ranking as the 39th receiver global arms market, which demonstrates a defense industry with a clear external focus and competitiveness in international markets foreign trade.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about the arms market

What is the Trend Value Index (TIV)?

It is a metric used by the SIPRI which estimates the volume of transfers using a criterion of constant production costsIts objective is to facilitate consistent comparisons between different countries and periods, regardless of price or currency fluctuations.

What has been the market growth over the last five years?

According to estimates, the volume of transfers between 2021 and 2025 has grown a 9% compared to the previous five-year period, marking an accelerating trend in global rearmament.

Who dominates arms exports worldwide?

The market is led by Estados Unidos, which holds almost half of the market (42%), followed by Francia (10%) and Rusia (7%). España It ranks in the top 10 with a 3% share.