PUBLISHER: Market Xcel - Markets and Data | PRODUCT CODE: 1716734
PUBLISHER: Market Xcel - Markets and Data | PRODUCT CODE: 1716734
Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Assessment, By Vessel Type, By System, By Application, By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2032F
Global naval vessels and surface combatants market is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.55% during the forecast period 2025-2032, growing from USD 405.04 billion in 2024 to USD 672.64 billion in 2032F owing to factors such as fleet modernization, geopolitical tensions, and technological innovations. Navies are focusing on the adoption of multi-role vessels with advanced systems to cater to evolving maritime challenges and threats. The focus on indigenous shipbuilding is reshaping the industry landscape, fostering self-reliance, and thriving domestic economies. As countries look to enhance their naval capabilities, the market is likely to thrive, with a focus on versatile, technologically advanced platforms. Countries with longer coastal areas have started commissioning new vessels for combat or surveillance.
For instance, in January 2025, the Indian Navy commissioned three surface combatants into its fleet: INS Nilgiri, the lead ship of the Project 17A class frigates; INS Surat, the fourth and final ship of the Project 15B class destroyers; and INS Vaghsheer, the sixth and final submarine of the Scorpene-class project. These three combatants that have been commissioned are expected to increase the Indian Navy's capabilities as well as fleet size.
Fleet Modernization and Replacement Program Fuels the Market
Several naval organizations worldwide are adopting extensive modernization efforts to replace old vessels with advanced platforms. These efforts are fueled by the need to enhance operational capabilities and address emerging maritime threats. Countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia are investing in new-generation frigates and destroyers equipped with cutting-edge technologies to maintain naval superiority. Furthermore, rising geopolitical conflicts in regions including the South China Sea, the Persian Gulf, and the Arctic are prompting nations to bolster their naval forces. The need to secure maritime borders, protect trade routes, and assert territorial claims is leading to increased procurement of surface combatants capable of multi-mission operations.
For instance, in July 2023, Navantia S.A. S.M.E showcased the future SMART 8000 heavy destroyer, which is going to replace the Spanish Navy's Alvara de Bazan anti-aircraft destroyer. The 170-meter, 10,000-ton vessel features exceptionally sleek lines designed to improve stealth capabilities. Notably, both the vertical launching systems and the gun can be concealed when required, minimizing any protrusions. Its inverted bow draws inspiration from French FDI frigates, while a substantial aviation platform occupies approximately one-third of the ship's overall structure.
Emphasis on Indigenous Shipbuilding and Modular Design to Shape the Global Market
Countries are increasingly focusing on developing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. This approach enhances national security and supports local industries and economies. Notable examples include China's launch of the Type 003 aircraft carrier and India's commissioning of the INS Vikrant, both domestically built. Emerging countries such as India and China are also incorporating indigenous technology and advancing their deepwater defense.
For instance, in August 2024, India inaugurated its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), named S4, at the Ship Building Center in Visakhapatnam. This development enhanced India's nuclear deterrence capabilities in response to increasing regional threats. The S4 submarine is armed with state-of-the-art K-4 nuclear ballistic missiles and features 75% indigenous components. With the commissioning of INS Arighaat in August 2024 and the expected upcoming launch of INS Aridhaman in 2025, India is committed to strengthening its maritime security, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
The integration of advanced technologies such as stealth features, integrated electric propulsion, and modular mission systems is transforming naval vessel design. Modular designs allow for rapid reconfiguration of ships to perform various roles, enhancing flexibility and cost-effectiveness. This trend is driving demand for versatile platforms capable of adapting to diverse mission requirements.
Frigate Segment Leads with Multiple Roles and Modular Design
Based on vessel type, frigates lead in the naval vessels and surface combatants market due to their versatility, modular design, and ability to perform multiple missions such as anti-submarine, anti-surface, and air warfare. Modern frigates are high-endurance platforms equipped with advanced technologies, enabling navies to operate flexibly and independently across vast areas. Their adaptability allows for cost-effective upgrades and mission customization, making them attractive to both established and emerging naval powers. International programs to expand frigate fleets-such as those in the United States, Canada, and France, are driving this segmental growth. As a result, frigates are projected to surpass destroyers in market share, reflecting their central role in naval modernization and the evolving nature of maritime security threats.
For instance, in April 2025, Fincantieri S.p.A. delivered the ninth FREMM (European Multi-Mission Frigates) frigate, Spartaco Schergat, to the Italian Navy. This advanced multi-role vessel features hybrid Anti-Surface Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASuW) configuration, high automation, cyber-resilience, and operational flexibility. Measuring 144 meters, it accommodates 200 crew and exceeds 27 knots, marking a significant fleet modernization milestone. This frigate was launched under on Muggiano (La Spezia) shipyard, Orizzonte Sistemi Navali (OSN), a joint venture owned by Fincantieri (51%) and Leonardo (49%).
Asia-Pacific Leads the Market with a Strong Presence in Marine Industry
The Asia-Pacific region leads in the naval vessels and surface combatants market, propelled by increasing maritime security concerns, territorial disputes, and modernization efforts. Growing defense budgets and heightened tensions in areas like the South China Sea have led to significant investments in new ships and advanced technologies. Countries are expanding their fleets with a range of vessels, including destroyers, frigates, submarines, and amphibious ships, aiming to enhance operational flexibility and maritime dominance. The adoption of innovations such as unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and automation is transforming naval capabilities.
Additionally, the region's focus on replacing aging fleets and integrating more versatile platforms ensures continued market growth, with both large and smaller nations strengthening their naval presence to safeguard strategic interests and respond to evolving security challenges.
For instance, in May 2024, China's Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Changxingdao Shipyard Co., Ltd. (DSICCX) unveiled its latest Type 055 destroyer, marking the tenth vessel of this class, and has initiated the construction of an additional hull. Recent commercial satellite images indicate that the shipyard has also begun work on another Type 052D destroyer, which is the sixth in the current series. The beam measurements of 18 and 20 meters for the new modules imply a strategy of simultaneous construction within a single drydock.
Future Market Scenario (2025-2032F)
Navies will likely deploy unmanned surface vessels for surveillance and mine countermeasure missions.
AI-driven systems are expected to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency in naval combat scenarios.
Environmental regulations drive the shift towards hybrid and electric propulsion systems in naval vessels.
Developing countries invest in naval vessels and surface combatants technology to modernize their fleets and comply with environmental standards.
Key Players Landscape and Outlook
Key players in the naval vessels and surface combatants market adopt multifaceted strategies to maintain their competitive edge and capitalize on growing global demand. They focus heavily on technological innovation, integrating advanced systems such as network-centric warfare capabilities, modular designs, and autonomous technologies to enhance operational flexibility and future readiness. Indigenization and local production are prioritized to reduce import dependency and align with national self-reliance goals, often supported by strategic international collaborations and technology transfer agreements. Additionally, companies target emerging markets, particularly in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions, where rising defense budgets and maritime security concerns drive demand for modern surface combatants. Comprehensive lifecycle support and maintenance services further strengthen customer relationships and ensure recurring revenue.
For instance, in September 2024, BAE Systems plc was awarded modernization contract of USD 177.8 million from the United States Navy. The award is for the maintenance and modernization of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97). Under the Depot Maintenance Period (DMP) contract, BAE Systems' shipyard in San Diego is going to conduct dry-docking of the 509.5-foot vessel along with underwater hull preservation, enhancements to the ship's Aegis combat system through the Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (Block 3).
Table of Contents
1. Project Scope and Definitions
2. Research Methodology
3. Impact of U.S. Tariffs
4. Executive Summary
5. Voice of Customers
- 5.1. Factors Considered in Purchase Decisions
- 5.1.1. Strategic and Geopolitical Factors
- 5.1.2. Operational Requirements
- 5.1.3. Regulatory and Compliance Factors
6. Global Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Outlook, 2018-2032F
- 6.1. Market Size Analysis & Forecast
- 6.1.1. By Value
- 6.2. Market Share Analysis & Forecast
- 6.2.1. By Vessel Type
- 6.2.1.1. Destroyers, Corvettes
- 6.2.1.2. Amphibious Ships
- 6.2.1.3. Frigates, Submarines
- 6.2.1.4. Auxiliary Vessels
- 6.2.1.5. Aircraft Carriers
- 6.2.2. By System
- 6.2.2.1. Weapon Launch System
- 6.2.2.2. Sensor System, Control System
- 6.2.2.3. Marine Engine System
- 6.2.2.4. Communication System
- 6.2.2.5. Electrical System
- 6.2.2.6. Others
- 6.2.3. By Application
- 6.2.3.1. Combat Operations
- 6.2.3.2. Coastal Operations
- 6.2.3.3. Search and Rescue
- 6.2.3.4. Mine Countermeasures Operations
- 6.2.3.5. Others
- 6.2.4. By Region
- 6.2.4.1. North America
- 6.2.4.2. Europe
- 6.2.4.3. Asia-Pacific
- 6.2.4.4. Rest of the World
- 6.2.5. By Company Market Share Analysis (Top 5 Companies and Others - By Value, 2024)
- 6.2.1. By Vessel Type
- 6.3. Market Map Analysis, 2024
- 6.3.1. By Vessel Type
- 6.3.2. By System
- 6.3.3. By Application
- 6.3.4. By Region
7. North America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Outlook, 2018-2032F
- 7.1. Market Size Analysis & Forecast
- 7.1.1. By Vessel Type
- 7.1.1.1. Destroyers, Corvettes
- 7.1.1.2. Amphibious Ships
- 7.1.1.3. Frigates, Submarines
- 7.1.1.4. Auxiliary Vessels
- 7.1.1.5. Aircraft Carriers
- 7.1.2. By System
- 7.1.2.1. Weapon Launch System
- 7.1.2.2. Sensor System, Control System
- 7.1.2.3. Marine Engine System
- 7.1.2.4. Communication System
- 7.1.2.5. Electrical System
- 7.1.2.6. Others
- 7.1.3. By Application
- 7.1.3.1. Combat Operations
- 7.1.3.2. Coastal Operations
- 7.1.3.3. Search and Rescue
- 7.1.3.4. Mine Countermeasures Operations
- 7.1.3.5. Others
- 7.1.4. By Country Share
- 7.1.4.1. United States
- 7.1.4.2. Canada
- 7.1.1. By Vessel Type
- 7.2. Country Market Assessment
- 7.2.1. United States Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Outlook, 2018-2032F*
- 7.2.1.1. Market Size Analysis & Forecast
- 7.2.1.1.1. By Value
- 7.2.1.2. Market Share Analysis & Forecast
- 7.2.1.2.1. By Vessel Type
- 7.2.1.2.1.1. Destroyers, Corvettes
- 7.2.1.2.1.2. Amphibious Ships
- 7.2.1.2.1.3. Frigates, Submarines
- 7.2.1.2.1.4. Auxiliary Vessels
- 7.2.1.2.1.5. Aircraft Carriers
- 7.2.1.2.2. By System
- 7.2.1.2.2.1. Weapon Launch System
- 7.2.1.2.2.2. Sensor System, Control System
- 7.2.1.2.2.3. Marine Engine System
- 7.2.1.2.2.4. Communication System
- 7.2.1.2.2.5. Electrical System
- 7.2.1.2.2.6. Others
- 7.2.1.2.3. By Application
- 7.2.1.2.3.1. Combat Operations
- 7.2.1.2.3.2. Coastal Operations
- 7.2.1.2.3.3. Search and Rescue
- 7.2.1.2.3.4. Mine Countermeasures Operations
- 7.2.1.2.3.5. Others
- 7.2.1.2.1. By Vessel Type
- 7.2.1.1. Market Size Analysis & Forecast
- 7.2.2. Canada
- 7.2.1. United States Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Outlook, 2018-2032F*
All segments will be provided for all regions and countries covered
8. Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Outlook, 2018-2032F
- 8.1. Germany
- 8.2. France
- 8.3. Italy
- 8.4. United Kingdom
- 8.5. Russia
- 8.6. Rest of Europe
9. Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Outlook, 2018-2032F
- 9.1. India
- 9.2. China
- 9.3. Japan
- 9.4. Australia
- 9.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
10. Rest of the World Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Outlook, 2018-2032F
- 10.1. South America
- 10.2. Middle East and Africa
11. Demand Supply Analysis
12. Value Chain Analysis
13. Porter's Five Forces Analysis
14. PESTLE Analysis
15. Market Dynamics
- 15.1. Market Drivers
- 15.2. Market Challenges
16. Market Trends and Developments
17. Policy and Regulatory Landscape
18. Case Studies
19. Competitive Landscape
- 19.1. Competition Matrix of Top 5 Market Leaders
- 19.2. SWOT Analysis for Top 5 Players
- 19.3. Key Players Landscape for Top 10 Market Players
- 19.3.1. BAE Systems plc
- 19.3.1.1. Company Details
- 19.3.1.2. Key Management Personnel
- 19.3.1.3. Products and Services
- 19.3.1.4. Financials (As Reported)
- 19.3.1.5. Key Market Focus and Geographical Presence
- 19.3.1.6. Recent Developments/Collaborations/Partnerships/Mergers and Acquisition
- 19.3.2. Fincantieri S.p.A.
- 19.3.3. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
- 19.3.4. Kongsberg Gruppen ASA
- 19.3.5. General Dynamics
- 19.3.6. Larsen & Toubro Limited
- 19.3.7. Navantia S.A. S.M.E
- 19.3.8. thyssenkrupp Marine Systems GmbH
- 19.3.9. Damen Shipyards Group
- 19.3.10. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd.
- 19.3.1. BAE Systems plc
Companies mentioned above DO NOT hold any order as per market share and can be changed as per information available during research work.
20. Strategic Recommendations
21. About Us and Disclaimer
List of Tables
- Table 1. Competition Matrix of Top 5 Market Leaders
- Table 2. Mergers & Acquisitions/ Joint Ventures (If Applicable)
- Table 3. About Us - Regions and Countries Where We Have Executed Client Projects
List of Figures
- Figure 1. Global Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 2. Global Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 3. Global Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 4. Global Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 5. Global Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Region, 2018-2032F
- Figure 6. North America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 7. North America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 8. North America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 9. North America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 10. North America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Country, 2018-2032F
- Figure 11. United States Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 12. United States Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 13. United States Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 14. United States Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 15. Canada Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 16. Canada Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 17. Canada Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 18. Canada Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 19. Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 20. Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 21. Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 22. Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 23. Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Country, 2018-2032F
- Figure 24. Germany Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 25. Germany Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 26. Germany Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 27. Germany Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 28. France Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 29. France Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 30. France Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 31. France Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 32. Italy Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 33. Italy Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 34. Italy Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 35. Italy Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 36. United Kingdom Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 37. United Kingdom Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 38. United Kingdom Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 39. United Kingdom Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 40. Russia Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 41. Russia Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 42. Russia Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 43. Russia Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 44. Rest of Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 45. Rest of Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 46. Rest of Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 47. Rest of Europe Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 48. Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 49. Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 50. Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 51. Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 52. Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Country, 2018-2032F
- Figure 53. India Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 54. India Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 55. India Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 56. India Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 57. China Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 58. China Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 59. China Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 60. China Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 61. Japan Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 62. Japan Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 63. Japan Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 64. Japan Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 65. Australia Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 66. Australia Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 67. Australia Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 68. Australia Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 69. Rest of Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 70. Rest of Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 71. Rest of Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 72. Rest of Asia-Pacific Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 73. South America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 74. South America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 75. South America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 76. South America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 77. South America Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Country, 2018-2032F
- Figure 78. Middle East & Africa Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market, By Value, In USD Billion, 2018-2032F
- Figure 79. Middle East & Africa Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Vessel Type, 2018-2032F
- Figure 80. Middle East & Africa Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By System, 2018-2032F
- Figure 81. Middle East & Africa Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Application, 2018-2032F
- Figure 82. Middle East & Africa Naval Vessels and Surface Combatants Market Share (%), By Country, 2018-2032F
- Figure 83. By Vessel Type Map-Market Size (USD Billion) & Growth Rate (%), 2024
- Figure 84. By System Map-Market Size (USD Billion) & Growth Rate (%), 2024
- Figure 85. By Application Map-Market Size (USD Billion) & Growth Rate (%), 2024
- Figure 86. By Region Map-Market Size (USD Billion) & Growth Rate (%), 2024
