Autonomous Naval Vessel Market Size - By Type, By Autonomy, By Vessel Category, By Propulsion Type - Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Autonomous Naval Vessel Market Size

The global autonomous naval vessel market size was valued at USD 1.65 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a 9.6% CAGR from 2025 to 2034. The increasing maritime security need drives market growth. The trade tariffs by the Trump administration on the steel, aluminum, and Chinese-made components has led to increase in the production cost of autonomous naval vessels. This is due to the reliance of shipbuilders on these materials and components for the hull construction and advanced electronics.
 

The global tariff war had led to disruption of the supply chain, shifting the focus of manufacturers on alternative suppliers. The higher costs have in-turn led to slowing down the innovations and delayed ships deployment. On the positive side, the tariffs have encouraged countries to boost their domestic production of critical technologies to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers in the long run.
 

The autonomous naval vessel market growth has also slowed down due to the increased costs initially, particularly for the budget constrained defense programs. Overall, the tariffs have led to increased domestic manufacturing and their immediate impact on the autonomous naval vessels were increased prices and supply chain adjustments.
 

According to Commercial Crime Services (CCS), there were 116 incidents against ships in 2024 compared to 120 in 2023 and 115 in 2022. In 2024, 94 vessels were boarded, 13 attempted attacks, six vessels hijacked and three were fired upon. The nations globally are investing in the unmanned naval systems to stop the rising geopolitical tensions and piracy threats. Autonomous vessels are able to strategically operate in the high-risk areas without jeopardizing human lives. Their ability to perform long duration missions with stealth further strengthens the maritime security. The autonomous naval vessels technology is adopted worldwide by the governments to protect their territorial waters.
 

Advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning are accelerating the growth of autonomous naval vessels. These technologies enable real-time decision-making, obstacle detection, and adaptive mission planning without human intervention. Improved sensor fusion and data analytics enhance situational awareness, making unmanned vessels more reliable. AI-driven systems also reduce operational errors, increasing mission success rates. Continuous innovation in this field is making autonomous naval vessels smarter and more efficient.
 

Cost efficiency and operational savings are driving the adoption of autonomous naval vessels. Traditional manned vessels require significant crew-related expenses, including training, salaries, and onboard facilities. Unmanned systems eliminate these costs while reducing fuel consumption through optimized navigation. Additionally, autonomous vessels minimize the risk of human casualties in hostile environments. These financial benefits make them an attractive option for defense budgets. Governments and navies are increasingly shifting toward unmanned solutions to maximize resource utilization.
 

To capitalize on the growing demand for maritime security, players should focus on developing autonomous naval vessels with advanced surveillance and anti-piracy capabilities, ensuring seamless integration with existing defense systems. Investing in AI and machine learning will be crucial to enhance real-time decision-making and operational efficiency, giving companies a competitive edge in the market. Additionally, cost-effective solutions that reduce long-term operational expenses while maintaining high performance will attract defense budgets and drive adoption.
 

Autonomous Naval Vessel Market Trends

• The integration of swarm technology is emerging as a major trend in the autonomous naval vessel industry. Navies are exploring coordinated fleets of unmanned vessels that can operate collaboratively for surveillance, defense, or strike missions. Swarm systems enhance operational flexibility, redundancy, and mission success rates through decentralized decision-making. This trend is driving investments in advanced communication networks and AI-driven swarm algorithms.
   
• Hybrid propulsion systems are gaining traction as a sustainable solution for autonomous naval vessels. Combining electric, diesel, and renewable energy sources improves fuel efficiency and extends mission endurance. These systems also reduce acoustic signatures, enhancing stealth capabilities in sensitive operations. Governments and manufacturers are prioritizing eco-friendly propulsion to meet stricter environmental regulations.
   
• The rise of modular payload systems is transforming the versatility of autonomous naval vessels. Vessels equipped with interchangeable mission modules can quickly switch roles from mine countermeasures to anti-submarine warfare without requiring separate platforms. This adaptability reduces costs and increases operational efficiency for navies. Manufacturers are focusing on standardized interfaces to ensure compatibility across different mission systems.
   

Autonomous Naval Vessel Market Analysis

Based on type, the market is divided into surface vessel, and sub-surface vessels and vehicles.
 

• The surface vessels market was valued at USD 1.19 billion in 2024. Surface vessels vessel market, serving critical roles in surveillance, patrol, and mine countermeasures. These unmanned systems leverage AI and advanced sensors for real-time maritime domain awareness without risking human crews. Their modular designs allow mission flexibility, from anti-submarine warfare to electronic reconnaissance. However, challenges like cybersecurity threats and regulatory restrictions impact operational scalability. Investments in swarm technology and hybrid propulsion are further enhancing their capabilities and endurance.
   
• The sub-surface vessels and vehicles market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.1% till 2034. Sub-surface vessels, including autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), are revolutionizing undersea warfare with stealth and precision. These systems excel in mine detection, seabed mapping, anti-submarine operations, and intelligence gathering without exposing human divers to risks. Advanced AI and sonar technologies enable them to navigate complex underwater environments autonomously. However, challenges like limited communication range, battery life, and deep-sea pressure resistance hinder prolonged missions. Growing investments in long-endurance, AI-driven UUVs are expanding their role in modern naval defense strategies.
   

Based on autonomy, the autonomous naval vessel market is divided into fully autonomous, and partially autonomous.
 

• The fully autonomous vessels market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.6% through 2034. Fully autonomous vessels operate without human intervention through AI-driven navigation and decision-making. These vessels leverage machine learning, computer vision, and advanced sensor fusion to perform complex missions like surveillance, anti-piracy, and combat operations. Their ability to execute long-duration missions with precision reduces risks to human personnel and lowers operational costs. However, concerns around cybersecurity, regulatory approval, and public trust remain key barriers to widespread adoption. The integration of edge computing is pushing the boundaries of their capabilities in modern naval warfare.
   
• The partially autonomous vessels market was valued at USD 1.29 billion in 2024. Partially autonomous vessels play a transitional role in the market, combining human oversight with automated systems for navigation and mission execution. These vessels utilize pre-programmed routes and AI-assisted decision support while retaining crewed control for complex operations. They serve as critical testbeds for advancing toward full autonomy, particularly in mine countermeasures and surveillance missions. Their hybrid approach helps build operational confidence and addresses current regulatory and safety concerns. The gradual shift from partial to full autonomy is accelerating as AI reliability improves and naval doctrines evolve.
   

Based on vessel category, the autonomous naval vessel market is divided into newbuild and retrofit.
 

• The newbuild vessels market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.7% up to 2034. Newbuild vessels are being designed from the ground up with integrated AI, advanced sensors, and modular mission systems. These purpose-built unmanned platforms offer greater efficiency, scalability, and technological readiness compared to retrofitted conventional ships. Governments and defense contractors are investing heavily in newbuild autonomous vessels to enhance maritime security and operational flexibility. Their development is driving innovation in hybrid propulsion, stealth design, and swarm compatibility. However, high R&D costs and lengthy certification processes remain key challenges for widespread adoption.
   
• The retrofit vessels market was valued at USD 1 billion in 2024. The retrofitting in the vessels involve upgradation of the existing ships with electronics and software of autonomous systems such as AI and remote-control capabilities. Retrofitting approach is cost effective and time efficient compared to building a ship from the scratch. With the help of retrofitting, the operational lifespan of the existing fleet is increased by integrating it with advanced sensors, communication systems, and automation tools.
   

Based on propulsion type, the autonomous naval vessel market is divided into fully electric, conventional, and hybrid.
 

• The conventional propulsion vessels market was valued at USD 868.3 million in 2024. The conventional propulsion system involves diesel engines and gas turbines, which are prevalent in the market due to their reliability and mature technology. The conventional engines provide consistent operational range, which makes them suitable for long duration missions. Yet, there are certain challenges, such as the higher fuel consumption, emissions, and acoustic signatures, which can compromise stealth.
   
• The fully electric vessels market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.5% through 2034. The fully electric propulsion system offers zero-emissions and low acoustic signatures which for the stealth missions. It has superior battery technology and energy management system to enhance efficiency. These ships being ideal for short range patrol and surveillance missions, also adhere to the global sustainability goals. There are limitations to these vessels such as low energy density and recharge infrastructure, making them defunct for the long-range operations. The international R&D programs on solid state batteries and fast charging infrastructure are expected to boost the adoption of fully electric vessels.

• The U.S. autonomous naval vessel market was valued at USD 568.6 million in 2024. The U.S. is a key player in the global market with investments by the Department of Defense (DoD) and private firms such as Lockheed Martin. The U.S. navy’s Unmanned Campaign Framework contains and prioritizes unmanned surface and subsurface vessels for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and strike missions. Technologies such as AI and swarm integration are gaining traction with collaboration between Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and tech startups. The country leverages its advances in autonomous systems to say ahead in the market competition.
   
• The Germany autonomous naval vessel market is set to grow at a CAGR of 8.7% till 2034. Germany is emerging as a key player in autonomous naval technology, with a strong emphasis on mine countermeasures (MCM) and underwater drones. German manufacturers are in the developing phase of autonomous underwater vehicle (AUVs) for NATO and European Union (EU). The strict environmental regulations by the EU are adhered to by the German Navy by prioritization of ecofriendly vessels. Germany is leveraging the EU for partnerships with European countries to be able to operate in the international waters of Baltic and North Sea. Due to its higher hand in engineering and technology, Germany is able to compete in the global market.
   
• The autonomous naval vessel market in UK was valued at USD 32.9 million in 2024. The UK is rapidly expanding its autonomous naval capabilities through programs such as Project Wilton and the Royal Navy’s unmanned initiatives. The British company, BAE Systems is forerunner in the technology for AI driven surface vessels for patrolling the borders. UK is looking forward to consolidating its defence technology exports after the Brexit. The market in UK faces challenges of legacy fleets, yet innovation by the industry disruptors in the AI is expected to keep the market competitive.
   
• The autonomous naval vessel market in China was valued at USD 192.3 million in 2024. China is aggressively advancing in the market, leveraging state-backed projects and firms such as China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). The Chinese Navy focuses on swarm drones and AI-enabled submarines for contested waters in the South China Sea. Civil-military fusion drives rapid prototyping of long-endurance uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) and unmanned underwater vehicle (UUVs). Concerns over IP theft and geopolitical tensions limit foreign collaboration. China’s sheer scale of investment and testing cements its role as a global disruptor in autonomous naval warfare.
   
• The autonomous naval vessel market in India is expected to reach USD 306.6 million by 2034. India is investing heavily in indigenous autonomous naval systems through initiatives such as the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO). Partnerships with DRDO and private firms (e.g., Larsen & Toubro) aim to develop AI-powered USVs for coastal security. The Indian Navy prioritizes anti-piracy and undersea surveillance in the Indian Ocean Region. Challenges include import dependencies and slow procurement processes, but startups and defense reforms are accelerating progress. India’s strategic location and threat perceptions fuel demand for autonomous solutions.
   

 Autonomous Naval Vessel Market Share

The autonomous naval vessel industry is highly competitive, with the top five players, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, Thales, and Kongsberg Maritime collectively accounting for a market share of over 43%. These companies are deploying diverse strategies to strengthen their market position and align with evolving defense needs. Leading firms are investing heavily in AI-driven autonomy, hybrid propulsion systems, and modular mission payloads to enhance operational versatility. Additionally, advancements in swarm technology and undersea drones are being prioritized to address modern maritime threats.
 

To gain a competitive edge, key players are focusing on strategic partnerships with governments and tech startups to accelerate innovation in unmanned systems. Companies are integrating cyber-secure communication networks and edge computing to improve real-time decision-making in contested environments. Another rising trend is the demand for customizable autonomous platforms, tailored for specific naval roles such as mine countermeasures or anti-submarine warfare. Mergers and acquisitions, such as Thales’ acquisition of technology firms, are expanding its capabilities and market reach. Firms are also leveraging digital twin technology and advanced simulation tools to optimize vessel performance and reduce development costs, ensuring faster deployment of next-generation autonomous fleets.
 

Autonomous Naval Vessel Market Companies

Some of the prominent participants operating in the autonomous naval vessel industry include:

• Lockheed Martin Corporation
• Northrop Grumman
• BAE Systems
• Thales
• Kongsberg Maritime
   

Northrop Grumman is a leader in the autonomous naval vessel market, specializing in advanced unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) such the MANTAS and Sea Hunter platforms. The company focuses on AI-driven autonomy and long-endurance missions, particularly for the U.S. Navy’s unmanned fleet initiatives. Northrop Grumman’s expertise in sensor integration and swarm technology enhances maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Strategic partnerships with Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the Pentagon accelerate innovation in next-generation unmanned systems. The company’s investments in modular payloads and hybrid propulsion solidify its competitive edge in autonomous naval solutions.
 

Lockheed Martin Corporation provides autonomous systems such as the Marlin UUV and AN/WLD-1 RMS USV. Its focus on AI, machine learning, and secure communications ensures superior mission adaptability for undersea and surface operations. Lockheed collaborates closely with the U.S. Navy and allied forces to deploy scalable unmanned platforms for mine countermeasures and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). The company’s open-architecture approach allows seamless integration with existing naval fleets. Continuous R&D in swarm autonomy and edge computing positions Lockheed as a pioneer in next-gen naval warfare technologies.
 

Autonomous Naval Vessel Industry News:

• In March 2025, the UK Royal Navy has received its first autonomous mine-hunting system, developed by Thales, which utilizes AI and advanced sensors to detect and neutralize naval mines without endangering personnel. This innovation marks a significant advancement in maritime defense technology, enhancing operational safety and efficiency. The initiative also supports British employment, with over 200 jobs sustained through the Pound 184 million joint UK-France Maritime Mine Counter Measures program.
   
• In February 2025, Kongsberg Discovery has delivered its HUGIN Superior autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) to the U.S. Navy following successful acceptance testing in Norway. Developed under a 2024 contract with the Defense Innovation Unit, the AUV is designed for missions such as mine countermeasures, seabed warfare, and infrastructure inspection. With full ocean depth capability, over 70 hours of endurance, and high navigational accuracy, it enhances the Navy's undersea operational capabilities.
   

The autonomous naval vessel market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) and volume (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Surface Vessel
  • Armed Patrol USVs
  • Mine Countermeasure
  • Others
• Sub-surface Vessels and Vehicles

Market, By Autonomy

• Fully Autonomous
• Partially Autonomous

Market, By Vessel Category

• Newbuild
• Retrofit

Market, By Propulsion Type

• Fully Electric
• Conventional
• Hybrid

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

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA