Arms sales fell for the first time since the mid-90s

At constant exchange rates, sales decreased by 5% to $ 410 billion (308 billion euros), against 411 billion in 2010, according to a study published by the "Stockholm International Peace Research Institue" (SIPRI).

Sales of the top 100 arms companies declined in 2011 for the first time since the mid-1990s, in a context of economic slowdown and reduction of military equipment for operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, according to a study published by the "Stockholm International Peace Research Institue" (SIPRI).

At constant exchange rates, sales decreased by 5% to $ 410 billion (308 billion euros), against 411 billion in 2010, details the research group said in a statement.

"The austerity policies and cuts intended or actual military spending and the postponement of arms procurement program affect all arms sales in North America and Western Europe" , specifies the SIPRI.

The growth of weapons sales had slowed in 2010, returning to a 1% increase yoy against 8% in 2009.

Of all the weapons manufacturers studied by SIPRI, 74 are based in the United States or Western Europe and for 90% of sales.

There is little change in the major arms manufacturers, the American company Lockheed Martin still number one, followed by Boeing dethroned by BAE Systems and General Dynamics second becomes number four instead of Northrop Grumman.

The trend in arms manufacturers and diversify their activities towards internet safety segment to which keep coming public spending in Western countries.

Over the period 2002-2011 the arms sales of the top 100 manufacturers jumped 51%, however, said the SIPRI.

The full list of the top 100 arms manufacturers in the world except China (for which data are not available) is viewable here . EADS is ranked in 7th place World Thales is in 11th position.