Search and Rescue (SAR) Equipment Market Size, Share and Trends 2024 to 2034

Search and Rescue (SAR) Equipment Market Size and Forecast 2024 to 2034

The global search and rescue (SAR) equipment market size is calculated at USD 2.35 billion in 2024 and is predicted to reach around USD 3.46 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 3.92% from 2024 to 2034. The growth of the search and rescue (SAR) equipment market can be attributed to the rising technological advancements in search and rescue equipment and the increase in emphasis on security and safety.

Search and Rescue (SAR) Equipment Market Key Takeaways 

• North America dominated the global market with the largest market share of 44% in 2023. 
• Asia Pacific is observed to witness notable growth in the market during the forecast period. 
• By equipment types, the communication equipment segment contributed the highest market share in 2023. 
• By application types, the urban SAR segment captured the biggest market share of 57% in 2023.
• By platform types, the ground-based segment has held the largest market share in 2023.

Why is Artificial Intelligence (AI) Changing the Search and Rescue (SAR) Equipment Market? 

Artificial intelligence provides various advantages across traditional search and rescue operations. AI is essential for anomaly detection and complex data analysis. AI helps SAR teams allocate resources efficiently and prioritize search areas. In addition, AI is projected to be used to identify real-time data on terrain, conditions, and weather to help optimize risks and search strategies and assess potential risks for search and rescue teams.

Coordination and planning of search can be achieved via artificial intelligence, thereby enhancing the growth of the search and rescue (SAR) equipment market. To deliver basic supplies, assess damage, and locate survivors, AI-generated robots can be tailored in hazardous environments. AI helps drones to reduce the risk of human exposure to danger zones and save time.

U.S. Search and Rescue (SAR) Equipment Market Size and Growth 2024 to 2034

The U.S. search and rescue (SAR) equipment market size is evaluated at USD 720 million in 2024 and is projected to be worth around USD 1,090 million by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 3.92%.

North America dominated the global search and rescue (SAR) equipment market in 2023. The market growth in the region is attributed to the rising significant resources, well-established emergency response systems, and rising advanced technological infrastructure. Various companies in the region are investing significantly in research and development, owing to the adoption of advanced technologies in search and rescue operations. In addition, the countries in the region, such as the U.S. and Canada, are major market contributors.

• Land Rover Launched the Defender Above & Beyond Service Awards in the U.S. to celebrate U.S.-based charitable organizations that are making a positive impact in their local community. These organizations among these qualifying groups are search and rescue organizations, first responders, fire services, and U.S.-based 501(c)(3)1 non-profit.

Asia Pacific is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate in the search and rescue (SAR) equipment market over the projected period. The market growth in the region is driven by the rising commitment to innovation and diverse geographical challenges. Asia Pacific encompasses varied terrains, such as areas prone, vast wilderness, and dense urban areas. Various countries in the region invest in innovative search and rescue technologies, such as efficient communication tools, early warning systems, and advanced drones, to address these challenges.

China, India, Japan, and South Korea are the major countries driving the growth of the market. The search and rescue (SAR) equipment market in China holds the largest share in the region, while India is the fastest-growing market.

• In May 2024, according to the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), China's independently developed AG600 large amphibious aircraft completed the initial verification of its water-rescue capabilities. The developer also added that it provides tech support for the follow-up development of the search-and-rescue variant and marks a new breakthrough for the AG600 aircraft family.

Market Overview

The search and rescue (SAR) equipment market deals with specialized equipment, devices, and tools used in search and rescue operations. It encompasses the sale, distribution, and manufacturing of various search and rescue equipment, such as thermal imaging cameras, drones, medical kits, navigation systems, personal protective gear, communication devices, and other related products. In addition, the market is attributed to demand from law enforcement agencies, military forces, search and rescue organizations, and other entities involved in safety operations and emergency response in the world.

In addition, international bodies and governments have identified the presence of effective search and rescue capabilities, and they have conducted strict regulatory standards to ensure interoperability, reliability, and quality of search and rescue equipment. The use of drones adapted to advanced imaging systems is also expected to play an important role in search and rescue operations in the search and rescue (SAR) equipment market. Moreover, machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) are expected to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of SAR operations.

Search and Rescue (SAR) Equipment Market Growth Factors

• The increasing expenditure and focus on emergency lifesaving equipment contributed to propel the market growth.
• The rising technological advancements in SAR equipment and increasing natural disaster activities are expected to drive market growth.
• The increasing military and government spending on search and rescue equipment is anticipated to enhance the market growth.
• The increasing demand for commercial search and rescue services is further expected to enhance the growth of the search and rescue (SAR) equipment market.

Market Scope

Market Dynamics

Driver

Growing demands and application

The search and rescue (SAR) equipment market growth is attributed to various factors, such as the rising demand for portable and versatile rescue equipment, increasing investments in public safety and defense, and rising advancements in search and rescue technology. The increasing prevalence of maritime emergencies and natural disasters is generating a continuous need for advanced search and rescue tools, such as multi-function rescue devices, thermal imaging cameras, and drones. The expansion of offshore industries and maritime activities is enhancing the demand for specialized marine search and rescue equipment.

The adoption of advanced communication systems, machine learning, and artificial intelligence for real-time coordination and predictive analytics is driving market growth and enhancing the effectiveness of search and rescue operations. In addition, government initiatives to improve national disaster response frameworks and modernize search and rescue capabilities are further driving the growth of the search and rescue (SAR) equipment market.

Restraint

Challenging and rubbed environments

The increasingly challenging and rubbed environments create major challenges in the market. Search and rescue operations are continuously conducted in tough environments such as disaster-stricken locations, extreme weather, or distant wilderness areas. The SAR equipment used must be allowed to prevent these complexes, which necessitates excellent dependability and durability. Creating search and rescue equipment that addresses needs can be technically difficult and expensive. The mass and weight of ruggedized equipment may reduce the effectiveness of search and rescue efforts and hinder response times and mobility. In addition, preventing these environmental limits is a major obstacle for SAR equipment makers.

Opportunity

Rapid advancements and integration of newer technologies

Search and rescue equipment is evolving with the integration of enhanced communication tools, drones, and GPS tracking, while drones provide remote access and aerial reconnaissance to challenging terrains. Enhanced communication equipment enhances the chances of successful missions and ensures better coordination among rescue teams. To reduce the environmental impacts, research and equipment are rapidly being constructed with energy-efficient technologies and environmentally friendly materials. This transition is expected to increase emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainability. In addition, search and rescue equipment is being integrated with real-time information sharing and data analytics, improving coordination during operations and enabling better decision-making.

Equipment Types Insights

The communication equipment segment held the largest share of the search and rescue (SAR) equipment market share in 2023. The communication equipment segment is connected to the crucial role it plays in ensuring seamless connectivity between command centers and rescue teams and facilitating response strategies and efficient decision-making. In addition, advanced communication systems significantly enhance the effectiveness of search and rescue operations. Some necessary systems include wearable devices, the Internet of Things (IoT), uncrewed aerial systems, digital radio interoperability, satellite communications, and enhanced visualization systems and data analysis. These communication systems can drastically increase the chance of finding a lost person alive when used properly.

• In February 2024, AT&T, FirstNet Authority announced a 10-year Investment to Transform America’s Public Safety Broadband 5G Network. This 5G network can connect more devices and handle large amounts of data. From using drones to transmit high-definition video during search and rescue operations to opening the door to an influx of Internet of Things (IoT) data that will enhance situational awareness and improve emergency patient care 

Platform Insights

The ground-based segment dominated the search and rescue (SAR) equipment market share in 2023. The ground-based platforms segment caters as central hubs for search and rescue operations. The segment is providing versatility, accessibility, and stability in search and rescue operations. In addition, the ground-based platforms can navigate diverse terrains and are adaptable, which makes them convenient for a broad range of search and rescue missions. The equipment and land vehicles provide the advantage of quick response times, which is vital for time-sensitive search and rescue missions such as missing person searches and disaster relief. In addition, ground-based SAR equipment is cost-effective and accessible for search and rescue operations, particularly in urban and terrestrial areas. Furthermore, there is a rising growth in technological advancement in ground-based SAR equipment and an increasing emphasis on security and safety across the globe.

• In January 2022, a U.S.-based innovator of satellite-based tracking data communications, ACR Group, acquired TRX Systems for an undisclosed amount. This acquisition allows dismounted warfighters to conduct operations when operating in a denied environment successfully, degraded and GPS-challenged.  

Application Insights

The urban SAR segment dominated the search and rescue (SAR) equipment market in 2023. Based on application types, the market is segmented into urban SAR and Combat SAR. The growth of the urban SAR segment is attributed to the increasing frequency of emergencies, such as structural collapses, accidents, and natural disasters. In addition, various companies provide a wide range of firefighting equipment tailored for natural disasters, building collapse, urban search and rescue (USAR), and more.

• In July 2024, the State Urban Search and Rescue Alliance launched an extensive USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) Resource Catalog developed in collaboration with the National Alliance, SUSAR, and FEMA for Public Safety GIS (NAPSG). By enhancing and updating their resource information, SUSAR invites all agencies to join in this groundbreaking initiative.

Search and Rescue (SAR) Equipment Market Companies

• Leonardo S.P.A.
• Textron Systems
• General Dynamics Corporation
• Garmin LTD.
• ACR Electronics, Inc
• Thales Group
• Honeywell International Inc
• Cubic Corporation
• Elbit Systems Ltd

Latest Announcement by Major Industry Players

• In May 2024, its newest line of purposed-built search and rescue boats at this year’s Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) at the Indiana Convention Center was debuted by a rigid hull inflatable boat manufacturer, Fluid Watercraft to meet the maritime emergency needs of its responder everywhere. Chief executive officer for Fluid Watercraft, Boyd Tomkies, said: “We are very proud of this new line of search and rescue watercraft.”  

Recent Developments 

• In May 2024, Israel’s leading international humanitarian aid group, Israel, launched an emergency response in Papua New Guinea. The Papua New Guinea Government has expressed fear with the help of heavy search and rescue operations such as a large section of blocked highway and dense jungle terrain. 
• In July 2023, Omni Helicopters Guyana, an aviation services provider, announced that it is finished phasing in the Sikorsky S-92A for its search and rescue (SAR) services. The new aircraft replaced the Leonardo AW139 previously utilized to operate search and rescue services across the South American nation.

Segment Covered in the Report 

By Equipment

• Rescue Equipment 
• Search Equipment 
• Communication Equipment 
• Technical Equipment 
• Medical Equipment 
• Logistics Equipment 
• Planning Equipment 

By Application

• Combat Sar 
• Urban Sar 

By Platform

• Airborne 
• Marine 
• Ground-Based 

By Geography

• North America
• Asia Pacific
• Europe
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa