Millimeter-Wave Imaging Systems Market Report 2025: In-Depth Analysis of Growth Drivers, Technology Innovations, and Global Opportunities. Explore Market Size, Forecasts, and Key Trends Shaping the Industry.

• Executive Summary & Market Overview
• Key Technology Trends in Millimeter-Wave Imaging Systems
• Competitive Landscape and Leading Players
• Market Growth Forecasts (2025–2030): CAGR, Revenue, and Volume Analysis
• Regional Market Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World
• Future Outlook: Emerging Applications and Investment Opportunities
• Challenges, Risks, and Strategic Opportunities
• Sources & References

Executive Summary & Market Overview

Millimeter-wave (mmWave) imaging systems are advanced sensing technologies that utilize electromagnetic waves in the 30–300 GHz frequency range to generate high-resolution images of objects, materials, and environments. These systems are increasingly deployed in security screening, industrial inspection, automotive safety, and medical diagnostics due to their ability to penetrate clothing, packaging, and certain non-metallic materials without harmful ionizing radiation.

In 2025, the global millimeter-wave imaging systems market is poised for robust growth, driven by heightened security concerns, technological advancements, and expanding applications across multiple sectors. The market is projected to reach a valuation of approximately USD 1.8 billion, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 8% from 2023 to 2025, according to MarketsandMarkets. The transportation and aviation sectors remain the largest adopters, with airports worldwide investing in next-generation mmWave body scanners to enhance passenger safety and throughput. For instance, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continues to deploy advanced imaging technology at major airports, reflecting a global trend toward non-invasive, high-throughput screening solutions (Transportation Security Administration).

Beyond security, industrial and automotive applications are gaining momentum. Automotive manufacturers are integrating mmWave imaging for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), enabling features such as collision avoidance and blind-spot detection. The industrial sector leverages these systems for non-destructive testing and quality control, particularly in electronics and manufacturing environments (IDTechEx).

Regionally, North America and Europe lead the market, supported by strong regulatory frameworks and significant investments in security infrastructure. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth, fueled by rapid urbanization, expanding transportation networks, and increased government spending on public safety and smart city initiatives (Fortune Business Insights).

Key market players, including Smiths Detection, Rapiscan Systems, and Leonardo, are focusing on product innovation, miniaturization, and integration with artificial intelligence to enhance detection accuracy and operational efficiency. The competitive landscape is characterized by strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions aimed at expanding product portfolios and global reach.

Key Technology Trends in Millimeter-Wave Imaging Systems

Millimeter-wave (mmWave) imaging systems are experiencing rapid technological advancements, driven by the demand for enhanced security screening, industrial inspection, and autonomous vehicle applications. As of 2025, several key technology trends are shaping the evolution and adoption of these systems.

• Integration of AI and Machine Learning: The incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms is significantly improving image reconstruction, object detection, and threat identification in mmWave imaging. These technologies enable real-time analysis and reduce false positives, particularly in security screening at airports and public venues. Companies such as Leidos and Rapiscan Systems are actively integrating AI-driven analytics into their mmWave platforms.
• Advancements in Semiconductor Technology: The development of high-frequency, low-noise semiconductor components, such as gallium nitride (GaN) and silicon-germanium (SiGe) transistors, is enhancing the sensitivity and resolution of mmWave imaging systems. These advancements allow for more compact, energy-efficient devices suitable for both fixed and portable applications, as highlighted by Infineon Technologies and NXP Semiconductors.
• Phased Array and Digital Beamforming: The adoption of phased array antennas and digital beamforming techniques is enabling faster, more accurate scanning with fewer moving parts. This trend is reducing system complexity and maintenance requirements while improving throughput in high-traffic environments. Smiths Detection and Ultra Electronics are among the leaders leveraging these technologies.
• Miniaturization and Portability: Ongoing miniaturization of mmWave components is resulting in lighter, more portable imaging systems. This is expanding their use beyond traditional security checkpoints to mobile and field-deployable scenarios, as seen in recent product launches by Tek84.
• Enhanced Privacy Features: To address privacy concerns, vendors are developing software that automatically anonymizes scanned images, displaying only generic outlines or highlighting potential threats without revealing personal details. This trend is crucial for regulatory compliance and public acceptance, as noted by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines.

Collectively, these technology trends are making mmWave imaging systems more accurate, efficient, and user-friendly, supporting their expanding role in security, industrial, and automotive markets in 2025.

Competitive Landscape and Leading Players

The competitive landscape of the millimeter-wave imaging systems market in 2025 is characterized by a mix of established technology conglomerates, specialized imaging firms, and innovative startups. The sector is driven by increasing demand for advanced security screening, industrial inspection, and automotive safety applications. Key players are leveraging proprietary technologies, strategic partnerships, and acquisitions to strengthen their market positions and expand their product portfolios.

Leading the market are companies such as Smiths Detection, which has a robust portfolio of millimeter-wave scanners widely deployed in airport security and critical infrastructure. Leidos Holdings, Inc. is another major player, offering advanced people screening solutions that utilize active and passive millimeter-wave imaging for high-throughput environments. Rapiscan Systems continues to innovate with its range of security screening products, integrating AI-driven image analysis to enhance detection accuracy and throughput.

In the industrial and automotive sectors, Uhnder and Infineon Technologies AG are notable for their development of high-resolution millimeter-wave radar and imaging sensors, which are increasingly adopted in autonomous vehicles and smart manufacturing. TeraView and Polaris Alpha (now part of Parsons Corporation) are recognized for their research-driven approaches, focusing on non-destructive testing and defense applications.

• Innovation and R&D: Market leaders are investing heavily in R&D to improve image resolution, reduce false positives, and miniaturize system components. For example, Smiths Detection has introduced next-generation scanners with enhanced privacy filters and faster processing speeds.
• Strategic Collaborations: Partnerships between technology providers and end-users, such as airports and automotive OEMs, are accelerating product adoption. Leidos has secured multi-year contracts with major transportation authorities, reinforcing its market presence.
• Regional Expansion: Companies are expanding into emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, where infrastructure investments and security concerns are rising. Rapiscan Systems has established new service centers and distribution networks in these regions.

The competitive environment is expected to intensify as new entrants introduce cost-effective solutions and as regulatory standards for security and safety evolve. Continuous innovation and strategic positioning will remain critical for maintaining leadership in the millimeter-wave imaging systems market through 2025.

Market Growth Forecasts (2025–2030): CAGR, Revenue, and Volume Analysis

The millimeter-wave imaging systems market is poised for robust growth between 2025 and 2030, driven by expanding applications in security screening, automotive safety, and industrial inspection. According to projections by MarketsandMarkets, the global millimeter-wave technology market—which includes imaging systems—is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 20% during this period. This surge is attributed to increasing adoption in airport security, where non-invasive, high-resolution imaging is critical, as well as in automotive advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and industrial automation.

Revenue forecasts indicate that the market could surpass USD 2.5 billion by 2030, up from an estimated USD 1.0 billion in 2025. This growth is underpinned by heightened investments in public safety infrastructure and the proliferation of smart transportation systems. The Asia-Pacific region, led by China, Japan, and South Korea, is anticipated to exhibit the fastest growth, owing to rapid urbanization and government initiatives to enhance security and transportation efficiency. North America and Europe will continue to be significant contributors, supported by established security protocols and ongoing technological innovation.

In terms of volume, the number of millimeter-wave imaging units deployed globally is expected to increase substantially. Fortune Business Insights projects that annual shipments could reach over 500,000 units by 2030, reflecting both replacement cycles in mature markets and new installations in emerging economies. The security and surveillance segment will remain the largest end-user, but automotive and industrial applications are forecasted to gain share, particularly as autonomous vehicle adoption accelerates and manufacturing sectors seek enhanced quality control solutions.

• CAGR (2025–2030): ~20%
• Projected Market Revenue (2030): USD 2.5 billion+
• Estimated Annual Unit Shipments (2030): 500,000+
• Key Growth Drivers: Security screening, automotive ADAS, industrial automation
• Leading Regions: Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe

Overall, the millimeter-wave imaging systems market is set for dynamic expansion through 2030, propelled by technological advancements, regulatory mandates, and the growing need for high-resolution, non-contact imaging across multiple sectors.

Regional Market Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World

The global millimeter-wave imaging systems market is experiencing robust growth, with regional dynamics shaped by varying security needs, technological adoption rates, and regulatory frameworks. In 2025, North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World (RoW) each present distinct opportunities and challenges for market participants.

North America remains the largest market for millimeter-wave imaging systems, driven by significant investments in airport security, border control, and defense modernization. The United States, in particular, continues to deploy advanced screening technologies at airports and government facilities, supported by agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The region’s focus on counter-terrorism and public safety, coupled with a mature regulatory environment, sustains high demand for both active and passive imaging systems. Canada is also increasing adoption, particularly in critical infrastructure protection.

Europe is characterized by stringent privacy regulations and a strong emphasis on passenger safety. The European Union’s regulatory bodies, such as the European Commission Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs, have mandated the use of non-intrusive screening technologies at airports, fueling market growth. The UK, Germany, and France are leading adopters, with ongoing investments in smart border initiatives and urban security. However, the market faces challenges related to public acceptance and compliance with the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) guidelines.

• Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, propelled by rapid airport expansion, urbanization, and rising security concerns. China, Japan, and India are investing heavily in millimeter-wave imaging for both civil aviation and public event security. Government initiatives, such as China’s “Safe City” projects and India’s airport modernization programs, are key growth drivers. The region also benefits from a strong manufacturing base, with local players entering the market alongside global leaders.
• Rest of the World (RoW) includes Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, where adoption is comparatively nascent but accelerating. The Middle East, led by the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is investing in advanced security infrastructure for airports and mega-events. Latin America and Africa are gradually increasing adoption, primarily in major urban centers and international airports, often supported by international aid and technology transfer programs.

Overall, regional market dynamics in 2025 reflect a combination of regulatory mandates, security imperatives, and technological readiness, with North America and Asia-Pacific leading in adoption and innovation, while Europe and RoW present unique regulatory and infrastructural considerations.

Future Outlook: Emerging Applications and Investment Opportunities

Looking ahead to 2025, the millimeter-wave (mmWave) imaging systems market is poised for significant expansion, driven by both technological advancements and the emergence of new application domains. Traditionally dominated by security screening at airports and critical infrastructure, the sector is now witnessing diversification into areas such as autonomous vehicles, industrial inspection, healthcare diagnostics, and smart city infrastructure.

One of the most promising emerging applications is in the automotive sector, where mmWave imaging is being integrated into advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles. These systems leverage mmWave’s ability to penetrate fog, dust, and darkness, providing high-resolution imaging for object detection and collision avoidance. According to IDTechEx, the automotive market for mmWave imaging is expected to see double-digit CAGR through 2025, as OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers accelerate adoption for enhanced safety features.

In healthcare, mmWave imaging is gaining traction for non-invasive diagnostic applications, such as skin cancer detection and monitoring of physiological parameters. The technology’s ability to provide detailed sub-surface images without ionizing radiation is attracting investment from medical device manufacturers and research institutions. MarketsandMarkets projects that healthcare-related mmWave imaging applications will represent a significant share of new investments by 2025, particularly in Europe and North America.

Industrial inspection is another area of rapid growth, with mmWave systems being deployed for quality control in manufacturing, detection of foreign objects in packaged goods, and non-destructive testing of materials. The flexibility and safety of mmWave imaging make it an attractive alternative to X-ray and other traditional inspection methods, especially in food and pharmaceutical industries.

From an investment perspective, venture capital and corporate funding are increasingly targeting startups and scale-ups developing novel mmWave imaging solutions. Strategic partnerships between technology providers, automotive manufacturers, and healthcare companies are expected to accelerate commercialization. According to Grand View Research, the global mmWave technology market is forecast to surpass $4 billion by 2025, with imaging systems accounting for a substantial portion of this growth.

• Automotive and mobility: Enhanced ADAS and autonomous navigation
• Healthcare: Non-invasive diagnostics and patient monitoring
• Industrial: Quality control and non-destructive testing
• Security: Continued innovation in personnel and cargo screening

In summary, 2025 will mark a pivotal year for mmWave imaging systems, with emerging applications and robust investment activity reshaping the competitive landscape and unlocking new market opportunities.

Challenges, Risks, and Strategic Opportunities

Millimeter-wave (mmWave) imaging systems, which operate in the 30 GHz to 300 GHz frequency range, are increasingly deployed in security screening, industrial inspection, and automotive sensing. However, the market in 2025 faces a complex landscape of challenges, risks, and strategic opportunities that will shape its trajectory.

Challenges and Risks

• Technical Complexity and Cost: The development of high-resolution mmWave imaging systems requires advanced semiconductor materials, precise manufacturing, and sophisticated signal processing algorithms. These factors contribute to high production costs, limiting widespread adoption, especially in cost-sensitive sectors (IDTechEx).
• Regulatory and Privacy Concerns: The use of mmWave imaging in public security, such as airport body scanners, raises privacy issues and regulatory scrutiny. Compliance with evolving data protection laws and public acceptance remain significant hurdles (Transportation Security Administration).
• Environmental Limitations: Millimeter waves are susceptible to atmospheric attenuation, especially in humid or rainy conditions, which can degrade image quality and reliability in outdoor or industrial applications (International Telecommunication Union).
• Competition from Alternative Technologies: Infrared, terahertz, and X-ray imaging systems offer different trade-offs in resolution, penetration, and safety, intensifying competition and potentially limiting mmWave market share (MarketsandMarkets).

Strategic Opportunities

• Integration with AI and Machine Learning: Embedding AI-driven analytics can enhance object detection, automate threat recognition, and reduce false positives, making mmWave systems more attractive for security and industrial automation (Gartner).
• Automotive and Mobility Applications: The push toward autonomous vehicles and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is creating demand for robust, all-weather imaging sensors, positioning mmWave as a key enabler (Automotive World).
• Miniaturization and Cost Reduction: Advances in semiconductor fabrication and integration are expected to lower costs and enable compact, portable mmWave imaging devices, expanding use cases in healthcare, consumer electronics, and IoT (Semiconductor Industry Association).

In summary, while mmWave imaging systems in 2025 face notable technical, regulatory, and competitive risks, strategic innovation and cross-sector integration present significant growth opportunities for market participants.

Sources & References

• MarketsandMarkets
• IDTechEx
• Fortune Business Insights
• Smiths Detection
• Rapiscan Systems
• Leonardo
• Infineon Technologies
• NXP Semiconductors
• Tek84
• Uhnder
• TeraView
• European Commission Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs
• European Data Protection Board (EDPB)
• Grand View Research
• International Telecommunication Union
• Automotive World
• Semiconductor Industry Association