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Based on application, the aerospace and defense propulsion system market is categorized into missiles, aircraft, spacecraft, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. The Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) segment held a business share of over 15% in 2022 and is expected to experience significant growth in the market. UAVs have applications ranging from surveillance and reconnaissance to cargo delivery along with civilian uses such as agriculture and infrastructure monitoring. There is a growing demand for propulsion systems that offer endurance and high performance, which is boosting rapid technological advancement. The absence of a crew on board allows for compact & specialized propulsion designs fostering agility and innovation. The increased allocation of budgets for defense & security purposes including UAVs is fueling segment growth within the aerospace and defense industry.
Based on type, the aerospace and defense propulsion system market is segmented into air-breathing & non-air-breathing. The air-breathing segment dominated the market with over 70% revenue market share in 2022 and is expected to register a CAGR of over 6% during the forecast period 2023 to 2032. Air-breathing propulsion systems, such as jet engines, lead market owing to their versatility and efficiency. They offer sustained high-speed operation and are well-suited for a wide range of applications, from military fighter aircraft to commercial airliners. These systems are cost-effective for long-range missions and provide exceptional thrust-to-weight ratios.
Moreover, advancements in technology have led to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, aligning with environmental concerns. Air-breathing engines are also essential for rapid response and mobility, making them a preferred choice for modern defense and aerospace applications, thereby maintaining their prominence in the market.
North America held a significant share of over 30% in 2022 in the aerospace and defense propulsion system market. The U.S., being a participant in defense and aerospace industries, consistently allocates resources toward advanced propulsion technology to uphold its military capabilities and technological advantage. The expansion of commercial space activities, driven by private companies, such as SpaceX and Blue Origin, creates a demand for advanced propulsion systems for rockets and spacecraft. Moreover, the region houses a robust aerospace and defense industrial base with a skilled workforce and several research institutions, fostering innovations and development. These factors collectively position North America as a hub for propulsion system market progress.