SIPRI Arms Transfers Database
The SIPRI Arms Transfers Database tracks international transfers of major conventional weapons from 1950 to the present. It helps finance professionals assess geopolitical risk and monitor the global defence market through consistent data on arms flows and procurement.
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OVERVIEW
The SIPRI Arms Transfers Database is a comprehensive resource tracking the international flow of major conventional weapons. Developed by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), it provides consistent data on the volume and destination of arms transfers globally since 1950. Finance professionals can utilise this data to assess geopolitical risk, verify corporate compliance with international sanctions, and monitor industrial trends within the global defence sector.
Organisation behind the tool
The database is maintained by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), an independent international institute dedicated to research into conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament. The SIPRI Arms Transfers Programme specifically manages the monitoring, measurement, and analysis of this data.
What the tool does
- Tracks transfers of major conventional weapons to states, international organisations, and non-state armed groups.
- Provides a Trend Indicator Value (TIV) to measure the volume of international transfers rather than the financial value of contracts.
- Allows users to generate customised reports by supplier, recipient, and time period.
- Offers downloadable datasets covering global arms exports and imports dating back to 1950.
- Maintains information on arms deals, including quantities, dates of order, and delivery status.
Target audience
The primary users include academic researchers, government policymakers, journalists, and non-governmental organisations. It is also a critical resource for financial analysts focusing on the aerospace, defence, and security industries.
Relevance to finance professionals
- Risk assessment – Identifying exposure to regions with increasing militarisation or those subject to potential future international sanctions and trade embargoes.
- ESG analysis – Providing data points for ethical investment screening related to the manufacturing and supply of conventional weaponry.
- Market/commodity insights – Tracking the long-term trade patterns of major industrial entities within the global defence supply chain.
- Investment context – Analysing shifts in national military spending and procurement as indicators of broader geopolitical and economic stability.
