The
arms industry is a global
business that
manufactures weapons and
military technology and equipment. It consists of
commercial industry involved in
research and development,
engineering, production, and the service of
military material, equipment, and facilities. Arms producing companies, also referred to as
defense contractors or military industry, produce arms mainly for the
armed forces of
states. Departments of government also operate in the arms industry, buying and selling weapons, munitions and other military items. Products include
guns,
ammunition,
missiles,
military aircraft,
military vehicles,
ships,
electronic systems, and more. The arms industry also provides other logistical and operational support.