Aircraft Arresting System Market - By Type, By System, By Platform, By End-use and Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Aircraft Arresting System Market Size

The global aircraft arresting system market was valued at USD 1.4 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2025 to 2034.
 

The increasing complexity of military operations necessitates improved operational efficiency in aircraft. Aircraft arresting systems are crucial for ensuring safe landings in emergency situations or on short runways, particularly on aircraft carriers and forward operating bases. The demand for faster response times and reduced aircraft downtime is driving the adoption of advanced arresting systems.
 

For instance, QinetiQ's electric motor-based advanced arresting gear (AAG) system enhances aircraft deceleration during carrier recovery operations. It accommodates a wide range of aircraft, improving reliability, safety, and reducing manning and maintenance needs. AAG uses energy-absorbing water turbines and an induction motor for precise control. Key benefits include compatibility with Nimitz- and Ford-class carriers, higher availability, and reduced ownership costs. These systems offer rapid deployment, reduced aircraft wear, and enhanced operational flexibility, which are essential in high-stakes military environments. As aircraft technology and military strategies evolve, arresting systems remain integral to maintaining operational readiness and improving mission success rates.
 

The growth in air traffic, both commercial and military, has intensified the focus on safety. Aircraft arresting systems are vital in mitigating risks associated with emergency landings, runway overruns, and equipment failures. They provide a critical safety measure, ensuring aircraft can stop safely within limited runway distances. This emphasis on safety and risk reduction is driven by the need to prevent accidents, protect lives, and safeguard expensive military assets. Global aviation authorities are implementing stricter safety standards, necessitating advanced arresting systems capable of handling greater challenges. For instance, Curtiss-Wright Corporation has secured a $19 million contract from global air navigation services (GANS) to supply aircraft arresting systems to the UAE ministry of defense. The systems will support both tailhook and non-tailhook aircraft, boosting military aviation safety and operational effectiveness. Consequently, the demand for innovative and reliable arresting systems is increasing, with manufacturers striving to meet these enhanced safety requirements.
 

Aircraft Arresting System Market Trends

Ongoing innovations in materials science, automation, and data analytics drive the development of more advanced and efficient arresting systems. These newer systems incorporate features such as real-time data monitoring, predictive maintenance algorithms, and precise energy-absorbing technologies. These improvements enable arresting systems to accommodate a broader range of aircraft, enhance operational flexibility, and reduce ownership costs. Additionally, smart technologies, including sensors for performance analysis and automated adjustments to arresting forces, improve system precision and reliability. Consequently, manufacturers are developing adaptive systems that enhance safety and performance across various operational environments.
 

Many countries, particularly in emerging markets, are modernizing their military fleets and airbases, including upgrades to aircraft arresting systems. For instance, Curtiss-Wright Corporation has secured a $26 million contract to upgrade the Belgian air force’s aircraft arresting systems. The deal includes new cable systems to support the F-35 Lightning II fleet, along with spares, repair, and overhaul services for other military flight operations. Global defense budgets are increasing due to geopolitical tensions, the need for enhanced military capabilities, and a growing emphasis on national security. This trend is especially evident in countries expanding their naval fleets and aircraft carriers, where arresting systems are essential for efficient air operations. As nations invest in modernized military infrastructure, including advanced aircraft carriers, the demand for high-performance arresting systems grows. In response, manufacturers are offering more reliable systems that can adapt to the evolving requirements of modern military aircraft.
 

Aircraft Arresting System Market Analysis

Restraints in the aircraft arresting systems market include high installation and maintenance costs, which can be a barrier for smaller military budgets. Opportunities arise from increasing defense spending in emerging markets and the modernization of military fleets, particularly with new aircraft carriers. Regulatory factors involve strict safety and environmental standards, pushing manufacturers to innovate while ensuring compliance with global aviation regulations. These forces collectively shape the market, balancing growth with the need for cost-effective, technologically advanced solutions.
 

Based on system, the aircraft arresting system market is segmented into fixed, portable. In 2024, the fixed segment accounted for the largest market share with 84% share.
 

Fixed aircraft arresting systems are permanent installations on runways or airbases for military and civilian use, providing reliable aircraft deceleration. These systems are known for their high reliability and ability to support various aircraft types, including those with tailhooks. They are particularly valuable in military airbases and specialized civilian airports with limited runway space. Fixed systems offer low maintenance costs post-installation and can be customized to meet specific operational requirements, making them a preferred choice for long-term infrastructure.
 

While fixed systems provide numerous advantages, they also have limitations. The initial installation costs are substantial, and the systems lack flexibility once installed. They cannot be easily relocated or adapted to different sites, making them less suitable for mobile operations. However, fixed systems excel in stability and performance, especially in high-traffic military airbases or on aircraft carriers. With increasing defense budgets and the need for secure, efficient operations, the demand for fixed arresting systems is expected to remain strong, particularly in regions with established military air infrastructure.
 

Based on platform, the market is divided into ground-based, ship-based. The ship-based segment is the fastest-growing segment with a CAGR of 9% during the forecast period.
 

Ship-based aircraft arresting systems play a crucial role in naval operations, facilitating the safe recovery of aircraft on aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships. These systems are designed to withstand harsh maritime conditions while maintaining high reliability and precision for various aircraft types, including jets and helicopters. Operating in confined spaces, ship-based arresting gear ensures rapid and efficient aircraft deceleration with minimal operational disruption. The integration of advanced materials and automation technologies is further enhancing the performance of these systems.
 

The demand for ship-based arresting systems is increasing due to naval fleet modernization efforts and the expansion of aircraft carrier fleets, particularly in emerging economies. As new-generation aircraft, such as stealth fighters like the F-35, require specialized arresting gear, manufacturers are developing more advanced and adaptable systems. These new systems aim to offer improved efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and seamless integration with shipboard technologies. With increasing naval defense budgets and the ongoing requirement for operational readiness, the ship-based arresting systems market is expected to experience significant growth, contributing to the safety and operational effectiveness of naval air forces.
 

North America is expected to reach over USD 880 million by 2034. North America, particularly the United States, is a significant market for aircraft arresting systems. This demand is primarily driven by substantial defense budgets and ongoing military modernization efforts. The U.S. Navy's continuous fleet upgrades and the expansion of aircraft carrier capabilities contribute to the strong demand for advanced arresting systems. Furthermore, both military and civilian airfields are increasingly adopting these systems to enhance safety and operational efficiency. This trend creates opportunities for manufacturers to develop and deliver more reliable and cost-effective solutions.
 

China's naval expansion and air force modernization are increasing the demand for advanced aircraft arresting systems. The country's growing fleet of aircraft carriers and development of indigenous aircraft, such as the J-20, necessitate robust arresting gear for safe landings. China's ongoing military infrastructure development, including new airbases and upgrades to existing ones, further supports the need for improved safety systems, creating opportunities for manufacturers in the region.
 

Germany is modernizing its defense infrastructure, including enhancements to airbases and naval assets. The country's military, focusing on NATO interoperability, requires advanced arresting systems for efficient operations on both land and sea platforms. As the German Navy upgrades its fleet and constructs new ships, the demand for aircraft arresting systems is expected to grow, particularly for integration with newer aircraft and vessels.
 

Japan is enhancing its defense capabilities in response to regional security concerns, including the expansion of its naval fleet. The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is investing in aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships, creating demand for reliable ship-based arresting systems. Japan's need for advanced technology, especially for integration with modern fighter aircraft like the F-35, is driving the demand for high-performance arresting systems that meet international safety standards.
 

South Korea is modernizing its defense infrastructure in response to regional security challenges, with a focus on naval and air force capabilities. The country's expanding naval fleet, including aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships, increases demand for arresting systems. South Korean airbases also require advanced land-based arresting gear for safe aircraft recovery. These efforts to strengthen military readiness contribute to consistent demand for innovative and reliable aircraft arresting solutions that support national defense strategies.
 

Aircraft Arresting System Market Share

General Atomics, Zodiac Aerospace, and SCAMA AB are key players in the aircraft arresting systems market, each contributing specialized solutions. General Atomics focuses on advanced electromagnetic arresting gear technologies, supporting both naval and military operations. Zodiac Aerospace is known for its comprehensive aerospace systems, including arresting gear for military aircraft. SCAMA AB, based in Sweden, offers high-quality arresting systems for both land and ship-based platforms, with a focus on reliability and integration with modern aircraft, enhancing safety and operational efficiency across various military sectors.
 

Aircraft Arresting System Market Companies

Major players operating in the aircraft arresting system industry are:

• A-Laskuvarjo
• Aries Test Systems and Instrumentation
• Atech Inc.
• Curtiss-Wright Corp.
• Escribano Mechanical & Engineering
• Foster-Miller, Inc.
• General Atomincs
• Runway Safe
• Scama Ab
• Victor Balata Belting Company
• Wire Rope Industries
• Wireco Worldgroup
• Zodiac Aerospace
   

Aircraft Arresting System Industry News

• In February 2023, Curtiss-Wright Corporation was awarded a 10-year, $35 million contract by the French air and space force (AAE) to provide logistics, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for its aircraft arresting systems. The contract includes ongoing support for specialized arresting equipment.
   
• In September 2023, Runway Safe’s EMAS arresting systems were installed at runways with limited safety area space due to site conditions. These cost-effective systems enhance safety by replacing RESA and addressing challenges like tabletop mountains, roads, railroads, waterways, and other obstacles near runways, improving safety in restricted environments.
   

This aircraft arresting system market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD million) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Net barrier
• Cable
• Mobile Aircraft Arresting System (MAAS)
• Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS
• Aircraft carrier arresting system

Market, By System

• Fixed
• Portable

Market, By Platform

• Ground-based
• Ship-based

Market, By End-use

• Commercial aircraft
• Military airbase
• Aircraft carrier

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa