In 2011, leading manufacturers in the highly competitive global arms market sought higher profits and expanded political influence in weapons sales to developing nations. The value of all arms transfer agreements with developing nations more than doubled from $32.7 billion in 2010 to nearly $71.5 billion in 2011. The United States maintained its position as top arms dealer to developing nations in 2011, with $56.3 billion or 78.7% of these agreements, a significant increase from 2010's market share of 43.6%.

Top Suppliers Percentage United States 78.7% Russia 5.7 France 3.8 China 2.9 Italy 1.5

Top Recipients Value of Agreements in Billions Saudi Arabia $33.7 India 6.9 U.A.E 4.5 Israel 4.1 Indonesia 2.1 China 1.9 Taiwan 1.6