Anti-Submarine Rocket Launch System (ASRLS) Market Size

Anti-Submarine Rocket Launch System Market Size

Anti-Submarine Rocket Launch System (ASRLS) Market size was valued at USD 5.9 billion in 2023 and is estimated to register a CAGR of over 10% between 2024 and 2032. The market is expected to witness a growing demand with the modernization of naval fleets. ASRLS has various benefits over traditional Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) systems including increased range, faster reaction times, and greater accuracy. This makes it an attractive option for navies looking to improve their ASW capabilities and address evolving threats.

To get key market trends

  Download Free Sample

Modernization is not limited to the new construction of ships; it also includes equipping older ships with current technologies. Many older ships lack adequate ASW capabilities, leaving them exposed to submarine attacks. ASRLS provides a modular and relatively simple option for upgrading existing boats, improving their ASW capabilities without the need for extensive changes.
 

For instance, in September 2023, Lockheed Martin Corporation delivered the first production of its Mk 57 Mod 7 Vertical Launching System (VLS) equipped with the Anti-Submarine Rocket (ASROC) to the U.S. Navy. This signifies a critical step in modernizing the Navy's fleet with enhanced ASW capabilities. Also, the new launch system offers increased capacity and flexibility for launching different types of payloads, which also include anti-submarine rocket launch systems.
 

Rising geopolitical tensions and submarine proliferation in different countries are crucial factors driving the anti-submarine rocket launch system market growth. Rising tensions raise fears about future undersea disputes, forcing countries to emphasize Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) weapons. Submarines possess stealth, mobility, and firepower, making them significant threats to maritime interests, infrastructure & military assets. ASRLS provides a quick-reaction, long-range countermeasure against submarines, which is regarded as critical in preventing and responding to possible disputes.
 

Along with this, strategic advantage becomes increasingly essential in highly disputed maritime areas such as the South China Sea, East China Sea, and Indian Ocean. The ability to deploy ASRLS-equipped warships in these areas conveys a powerful message of prevention and readiness. For instance, in January 2024, India ramped up its anti-submarine warfare in response to China's submarine expansion. India has increased interest in acquiring additional ASRLS for its warships as part of its response to China's rapidly growing submarine fleet.
 

The ASRLS market is facing a major challenge due to its high development and acquisition costs, potentially slowing down market growth. Developing and integrating modern ASRLS technologies require significant expenditure in research, development, testing, and manufacturing. This results in high acquisition costs per system, making them unaffordable for many fleets, particularly those with limited budgets. Along with this, ASRLS development and integration require complicated technologies such as rocket propulsion, guidance systems, and advanced weapons. This demands specific skills, which further raises the research and manufacturing expenses. Furthermore, maintaining and managing these systems need qualified staff, increasing the overall economic burden.