Virtual Training and Simulation Market Revenue Grows at a CAGR of 11.1%.

Introduction

Straits Research published a report, “Virtual Training and Simulation Market Size & Outlook, 2025-2035”. According to the study, the global virtual training and simulation market size was valued at USD 450.9 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 1456.7 billion by 2035, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.1%.

Market Dynamics

AI-powered adaptive learning dominates 2025 trends by analyzing user metrics like performance accuracy and cognitive load to personalize virtual training scenarios dynamically. In law enforcement, platforms escalate high-pressure simulations based on trainee responses, while corporate tools use NLP for real-time feedback in sales role-plays. This fosters critical thinking in unpredictable environments, driving efficiency across sectors.

Immersive VR/AR advancements feature LiDAR-scanned digital twins and haptic feedback for realistic sensations like weapon recoil or surgical resistance. Military applications enable zero-risk rehearsals, such as carrier landings, while gamification with badges and microlearning supports cross-platform access for manufacturing repairs. Cost-effectiveness and scalability eliminate physical training expenses, with cloud platforms enabling global, on-demand replays for SMEs.

Regulatory mandates in healthcare, aviation, and defense require simulation-based verification, reducing liability through data-logged metrics. High initial costs for hardware, AI training, and cloud fees restrain adoption, especially in emerging markets facing latency and compatibility issues. Opportunities abound in healthcare expansion for surgical simulations and education upskilling via mobile XR, targeting underserved regions for substantial growth by 2035.

Market Highlights

• Type Outlook: Hardware leads virtual training and simulation market by type, holding 50% revenue share in 2025, including key components such as VR headsets, haptic gloves, motion trackers, and immersive displays that provide essential, realistic sensory feedback for simulations in defense, aviation, and healthcare.
• Material Outlook: High-performance plastics and composites claim the biggest share in the virtual training and simulation market by material type, securing 45% of revenue in 2025, thanks to their use in durable, lightweight VR headsets, haptic controllers, and motion platforms that ensure ergonomic comfort and cost savings for defense and aviation training setups.
• End Use Outlook: Defense and security lead the virtual training and simulation market by end-use, holding 35% revenue share in 2025, fueled by critical needs in military flight simulators, tactical rehearsals, and weapons training that leverage hyper-realistic VR/AR for risk-free high-stakes readiness.
• Regional Insights: North America commands the largest regional share in the virtual training and simulation market, at 38% in 2025, propelled by cutting-edge defense simulations, extensive healthcare training initiatives, and broad adoption across aviation and education, backed by leading companies and substantial government investments.

Competitive Players

1. Lockheed Martin Corporation
2. CAE Inc
3. Thales Group
4. L3Harris Technologies
5. Raytheon Technologies
6. Airbus
7. BAE Systems plc
8. Elbit Systems Ltd.
9. FlightSafety International Inc.
10. Rockwell Automation
11. L-3 Communications Link Simulation and Training UK Limited
12. Kratos Defence & Security Solutions, Inc.
13. Cubic Corporation
14. ON24, Inc.
15. ANSYS, Inc.

Recent Developments

In February 2025, Lockheed Martin integrated the 30P08 software build across F-35 Full Mission Simulators (FMS) and Modified Mission Rehearsal Trainers (MMRT), enabling device connectivity at bases like Luke AFB for distributed mission training and enhanced pilot readiness in realistic environments. This integration enhances F-35 pilot training efficiency by enabling networked, distributed mission rehearsals across bases, reducing costs and improving combat readiness through realistic, interconnected simulations.

Segmentation

1. By Component
   1. Hardware
   2. Software
2. By End-User
   1. Defense & Security
   2. Civil Aviation
   3. Education
      1. E-Learning
      2. Game-based learning
   4. Entertainment
   5. Others