Autonomous Ships Market Size – By Type, By Propulsion Technology, By Fit, By End user, Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Autonomous Ships Market Size

The global autonomous ships market was valued at USD 8.5 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at CAGR of 7.5% to reach USD 17.4 billion by 2034. The growth of the market is attributed to an increase in the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
 

The manufacturers are focusing on fully autonomous ships with the integration of components/systems such as GPS, sensors, and internet of things (IoT) which enhance their capabilities. Companies are heading towards partnerships to combine AI & ML in autonomous ships. Companies such as the new lab and Mythos AI are advancing AI in the maritime industry with their autonomous boat pilot.
 

The autonomous ships market is witnessing growth owing to advancement in AI, navigation systems, and an increasing demand for cost-effective and efficient maritime operations. Nevertheless, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity threats, and public acceptance of unmanned vessels are key challenges. The stakeholders are focusing on collaborative R&D in the hope of addressing existing technical gaps, providing safety levels, and working with regulators in increasing clarity in frameworks. It should help if early adoption is concentrated on niche applications such as offshore support and short-sea shipping. This will provide opportunities for industry to showcase their application forward.
 

Reduction in the number of accidents is seen due to automation in ships. For instance, in January 2023, Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology developed a prototype of Aksanawa, an autonomous surface ship, for search and rescue (SAR) of ship accident survivors.
 

With autonomous ships, the need for large crew members to handle ships is reduced. With advancement in technology, the autonomous ships can be operated 24/7 with reducing breaks or shift changes required in case of human deployment. International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities has highlighted the potential cost savings linked with autonomous ships that lie in reduced crew related expenses.
 

Semi-Autonomous ships can be operated from shore, this means few people are required to operate the ships due to which operators can monitor multiple vessels from a particular location which reduces the need for on-ship human. Autonomous ships can also be remotely operated with no direct human control. This results in increased human safety, reducing human error and making ships more efficient. 
 

Autonomous ships are vessels that are operated without human intervention using advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and GPS to navigate, control their movements and make decisions. These ships can make their own decisions such as increasing or reducing speed based on the environment.
 

Autonomous Ships Market Trends

• Countries are focusing on initiatives focusing on fully autonomous ships, and one such fully autonomous ship initiative is recognized by Japan’s cabinet. The companies are working on the social implications of fully autonomous ships, aiming to address labour shortages in developed countries and reduce maritime accidents in the shipping industry.
   
• Companies are focusing on projects related to autonomous ships such as the MEGURI 2040 fully autonomous ship project administrated by the Nippon Foundation.
   
• Rapid technological innovation combined with evolving regulatory frameworks gives rise to more sustainable and efficient shipping capabilities. Optimized routes cause less accidents that in turn lead to less environmental damage such as oil spills.
   
• The ability to optimize fuel consumption and reduce emissions makes autonomous ships more eco-friendly. Additionally, these vessels can be planned with energy-efficient propulsion systems with the future integration of cleaner fuel technologies like electric or hydrogen propulsion systems.
   
• European union has highlighted that the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is developing a MASS Code, a new regulation for autonomous ships launched in two phases. Phase 1 will be non-mandatory in 2025, and phase 2 is mandatory in 2028. The EU, EMSA and other member states are focusing on this process through submissions, and participation in various IMO committees. Such initiatives highlight the growth for the autonomous ship market.
   

Autonomous Ships Market Analysis

Based on type, the autonomous ships market is divided into semi-autonomous, fully autonomous, and remotely operated ships. These types of ships are essential to ensure safety protocols, less human intervention, and smoother transition towards operational efficiency.
 

• Semi-autonomous vessels are growing continuously with a market share of 44.1% in 2024. Semi-autonomous vessels can operate independently for certain periods or in specific conditions where the environment is normal. Companies are developing semi-autonomous ships with lower capital costs, such that ship design is simpler with no deck house, galley, heating, and other costly sub-systems.
   
• Fully autonomous ships were valued at USD 2.9 billion in 2024. In fully autonomous ships the operating system of the ship can make decisions and determine actions by itself. the fully autonomous ship is considered as a vessel that can operate on its own without a crew. In March 2023, Kongsberg's Yara Birkeland, heralded as one of the world's first fully autonomous electric container ships.
   
• Remotely operated vessels are expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% up to 2034. These vessels operate remotely from ashore with defined distance. Rolls-Royce has revealed plans for an autonomous, single role naval vessel. Capable of operating beyond the horizon for more than 100 days, with a range of 3,500 nautical miles.
   
• Remotely operated ships play an important role in the maritime industry, as these ships not only have advanced technological capabilities but also are equally important with respect to regulatory frameworks.
   

The autonomous ships market when categorized by propulsion technology, is divided into fully electric, hybrid, and conventional autonomous ships. These propulsion technologies are supporting the development of autonomous ships with reliable power solution that enhance the propulsion technology of the ships. With sustainable systems the autonomous ships are operated with efficiency and gains support from regulatory framework.
 

• The fully autonomous electric ships market had registered a value of USD 1.6 billion in 2024. Fully autonomous electric ships are one step closer to zero emissions as compared to traditional fuel-powered vessels. The Yara Birkeland is fully electric ship with 7 MWh battery, charged by Norwegian hydro power. It can carry a little over 100 containers. The ship costs about USD 25 million.
   
• The hybrid autonomous ships market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% up to 2034. Hybrid autonomous ships integrated with both diesel as well as electric propulsion systems. USV AS is a joint venture established between the Solstad Offshore and Ostensjo. The intent of this venture is to develop and build an unmanned surface vessel (USV) that can withstand severe weather and operate remotely.
   
• The conventional autonomous ships held a market share of 52.8% in 2024 in the market. Conventional autonomous ships are vessels that retain traditional fuel-based propulsion systems but are equipped with advanced automation technologies to operate with minimal human intervention. These ships autonomously navigate and monitor their surroundings by integrating traditional engine types, like diesel or gas turbines, with advanced systems such as sensors, artificial intelligence, navigation software, and communication tools.
   

Fully electric, and hybrid technology systems enhance overall efficiency, and reduce emissions. These propulsion system enables efficient integration with advanced navigation and control system.
 

Autonomous ships market has been divided into line-fit & newbuild and retrofit ships under the ‘by fit’ category. Line-fit & new build autonomous ships are newly designed and retrofit autonomous ships integrates autonomous equipment to the existing ships. These two types of making autonomous ships ensures safety, reduce cost and results in consumer adaptability.
 

• The line-fit & newbuild autonomous ships market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 8.5%. line-fit & newbuild autonomous ships enable usage of new fuel to reduce overall fuel requirements. Such new builds ships are designed with fuels such as LNG with virtually no pollution hazards, which in turn enhances the market.
   
• The retrofit autonomous ships accounted for a market share of 56.6% in 2024. Retrofitting the currently existing ships with autonomous equipment proves an efficient way for shipowners to modernize their fleet without the requirement of new ship construction.  The equipment that are integrated in the existing ships are (artificial intelligence) AI enabled computers, navigation sensors, collision avoidance systems and electronic chart display among others. Retrofitting leads to gradual adoption of autonomous ships rather than huge capital investment on newer ships.
   

Both line-fit & newbuild and retrofit play crucial role in advancing maritime automation. Together they offer flexible autonomous maritime future.
 

The end users of autonomous ships have been bifurcated into military & defense, and commercial ship markets. The military & defence autonomous ships provide advanced surveillance and reduced crew risk especially for special operations.
 

• Commercial autonomous ships simplify logistics, consume less fuel, and reduce the delay in transport of goods. The commercial autonomous ships market stood at 5.7 billion in 2024. In the commercial ships market, autonomous ships are majorly used by cargo shipping industries for shipment of big vehicles, and heavy goods. Development of autonomous cargo vessels is increasing due to goods getting delayed by human errors. Norway's Kongsberg Maritime had successfully demonstrated a range of remote and autonomous technologies on a cargo vessel operating off the coast of Norway.
   
• In passenger category, the market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 9.1% by 2034. The autonomous passenger ships enhance safety and reduce human error. The growing demand for automation allows crew management, and real-time decision making.
   
• For container ships, the market was valued at USD 2.5 billion in 2024. These ships are gaining traction due to their reduced operational cost and improving fuel efficiency. With automation, it is now possible to operate the ports 24/7.  Autonomous container ships undergoing trials with crewless voyages in southern Norway highlights the trend for container ship.
   
• The Tanker autonomous ship market is expected to register a market value of USD 3.2 billion in 2034. Tanker autonomous ships reduce risk associated with hazardous cargo and ensure regulatory compliance which leads to its efficient operations in energy transport.
   
• The autonomous ships market for military and defense sectors is expected to grow with a CAGR of 7.2% up- to 2034. One of the technology firms, Saab has announced its new autonomous capability to naval vessels, it has come up with autonomous ocean core, a ready-to-use autonomous control system to provide autonomous capabilities to surface and subsurface naval platforms in military and civilian missions.
   
• The autonomous submarine market is expected to be valued at USD 1.1 billion in 2034. In September 2024, Ministry of Defense (India) had approved 100-Tonne unmanned underwater vessels for Navy's Combat Operations. This move shows the capability to enhance India's maritime along with its eastern and western seaboards.
   
• The autonomous aircraft carriers’ market is expected to register a CAGR of 6.5% up to 2034. The autonomous system in aircraft carriers is enhancing its operational efficiency by automating flight operations in maintenance and navigation.
   
• The market for autonomous destroyers was valued at USD 890.1 million in 2024. These destroyers offer tactical capabilities by AI based automatic navigation, active threat detection, and increased mission duration.
   
• Frigates are expected to register a CAGR of 8.4% in 2034. Automation in frigates is used for optimizing patrolling, surveillance, and defense operations.
   

For both military & defense, and commercial sectors, the market is expected to transform their capabilities by operational efficiency and safety.
 

The autonomous ships market in Europe is dominating globally and is growing significantly, reaching USD 7.4 billion by 2034. With regulatory support, technological advancements, and increased investment in maritime industry, companies are prioritizing the safety heading towards widespread adoption of autonomous ships.
 

• The market for autonomous ships in Germany is expected to register a CAGR of 10.1% up-to 2034. A Scottish company named Zelim introduced the world’s first unmanned vessel for rescuing seafarers in September 2024. It is integrated with computer processing, artificial-intelligent detection software and water jets which are the key technologies in this autonomous surface vessel for finding missing peoples in the sea.
   
• The UK autonomous ships market was valued at USD 554.4 million in 2024. In UK, the market is strictly monitored. The maritime UK launches Version 7 of the industry code of practice for maritime autonomous ship systems. Version 7 includes updated guidance on a variety of topics such as inland waterways and operating standards.
   
• The autonomous ships industry in France is expected to register a CAGR of 9.4 % up-to 2034.  France’s Naval Group unveiled its unmanned surface vessel in 2024, designed to operate in conjunction with manned warships following limited testing alongside the French Navy.
   
• The Spain autonomous ship market was valued at USD 109.4 million in 2024.  Spanish navy ordered new diving support vessel in recent period. Spanish shipbuilder FREIRE SHIPYARD has signed its first contract with the Spanish Navy’s logistics support command for the construction of a new diving support vessel. It will be featured with cutting-edge equipment such as a side-scan sonar, an autonomous vehicle (AV), and a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) capable of exploring depths of up to 900 meters.
   
• In Italy, the autonomous ships market is expected to register a CAGR of 9.2 % up-to 2034.  In February 2024, Kongsberg a renewed technology group won Italy’s order for shallow water unmanned submersible vehicle capable of surveying shallow waters.
   
• In Netherlands, the market for autonomous ships in 2024 was valued at USD 166.6 million. The rMCM program launched in 2019, for Netherlands and Belgium marks the key milestones with construction of advanced mine countermeasure vessels, launch of unmanned systems, and the opening of a dedicated production facility. The efforts aim to enhance safety and operational efficiency in naval mine warfare.
   

The North America autonomous ships market is projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 4.9 billion by 2034. Government is focusing on autonomous ships that leverage a range of sensors and technologies to navigate without human errors.
 

• With emerging technologies in the U.S., the market held a market share of 92.9% for 2024 in North America. In the U.S. there is a growing preference for autonomous ships as US Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that autonomous ships that are developing domestically in the U.S., have the capability to enhance the maritime environment.
   
• The market for autonomous ships in Canada is expected to grow with a CAGR of 4.4% in the forecast period.  In September 2024, the marine environmental and hazard response unit of Haida Gwaii Canadian coast guard acquired the first-ever autonomous surface vessel (ASV).
   
• To meet the evolving technology of Canadian coast guard Coastal Intelligence Management System (CiMS) software and OceanSled Ranger autonomous surface vessel was procured for its unique capabilities and adaptability. For marine emergencies, such as locating missing persons and safeguarding coastal environments, the Canadian Coast Guard plans to deploy the autonomous ships.
   

The autonomous ships market in Asia Pacific is projected to grow with a CAGR of 6.6% up-to 2034. Countries in Asia Pacific are focusing on various projects which support maritime industry for autonomous ships such as Australia’s Patrol Boat Autonomy Trial (PBAT). Such initiative fuelled by innovation and government initiatives depicts an emerging trend for autonomous ships in Asia Pacific.
 

• The market in China was valued at USD 832.9 million in 2024. The China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) reveled Thunderer A2000, a combat unmanned surface vessel (USV). It is powered by twin diesel engines and two CPP propellers delivering both agility and efficiency with a top speed of 35 knots.
   
• The autonomous ships industry in India is expected to grow with a CAGR of 5.6% up-to 2034. In November 2024, an Indian company called Sagar Defence Engineering marked a milestone with its autonomous surface vessel completing a 1,500-km voyage from Mumbai to Thoothukudi without human intervention supported by the Indian Navy.
   
• The autonomous ship market in Japan was valued at USD 174.7 million in 2024. In July 2023, ABS approved the Japanese autonomous shipping project. This fully autonomous ship framework named as APExS-auto (action planning and execution system for full autonomous) was developed by Japan’s Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), Japan Marine Science Inc (JMS) and Monohakobi Technology Institute (MTI) as part of the fully autonomous ship program MEGURI 2040.
   
• In Australia, the autonomous ships market is growing with a CAGR of 6.1 % up-to 2034.  The Austal Australia group completed sea trials for Royal Australian Navy's Patrol Boat Autonomy.
   
•  The autonomous ship market in Australia was valued at USD 182.9 million in 2024. In September 2024, the South Korean government began experimenting an autonomous ship in the waters of Korea and Southeast Asia to boost its economy with new manufacturing capabilities.
   

The autonomous ships market in Latin America market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.6% up-to 2034. Through various initiatives by companies in the market, Latin America is expected to become a giant hub for manufacturing autonomous ships. Governments and private sectors are exploring regulatory frameworks to enhance autonomous ship capabilities.
 

• In Brazil market was valued at USD 941.6 million in 2024. In Brazil, the Maritime companies have entered together to establish a cluster that will develop artificial intelligence for the autonomous ships and maritime sector.
   
• The market in Mexico is expected to hold a value of USD 859.9 million in 2034. In Mexico, the companies are working on technological advancement of autonomous ships to improve port efficiency, reduce the operational cost, and focusing on sustainability.
   
• By 2034, the autonomous ships market in Argentina is expected to grow with a CAGR of 6.5%.  Argentina’s government is opening new sea routes for foreign trade. The government is promoting the Magdalena Channel to improve navigation time, reduce costs and give greater autonomy to maritime trade.
   

The Middle east and Africa market is projected to grow with a CAGR of 3.7% in 2034. Countries in this region such as UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing in automation technologies to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and safety in shipping industry to reduce human errors.
 

• In Saudi Arabia, the market is expected to grow at CAGR of 6.6% up-to 2034. In Saudi Arabia, the Transport General Authority (TGA), Zamil Marine and American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), have agreed for joint development of regulations, technical standards, and operational frameworks for autonomous vessels.
   
• The autonomous ship market in South Africa was valued at USD 23 million in 2024. Robosys Automation, a leading developer of autonomous control systems, has secured a contract from Legacy Marine of South Africa, for the supply and integration of AI systems for a fully autonomous USV.
   
• In UAE the market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 7.3% up to 2034. In February 2023, UAE, Israel and United Arab Emirates developed autonomous boats to fulfill a series of military and commercial missions.
   

Autonomous Ships Market Share

The autonomous ships industry is highly competitive. Kongsberg Maritime, Samsung Heavy Industries Co., Ltd., and Hyundai Heavy Industries are the top 3 companies accounting for a significant share of 45% in the market. The companies are competing through the development of the propulsion systems and innovating in the existing technologies. To tackle the environmental impact companies are developing fully autonomous ships and incorporating greener propulsion solution for the ships.
 

Companies are focusing on future of maritime industry with the help of maritime operations through uncrewed surface technologies in commercial, and military & defense sector. Companies in autonomous ships market are integrating new research for the better future for maritime industry. L3Harris technologies is expanding its autonomous surface systems. The company has highlighted that its uncrewed capabilities are advancing rapidly with significant advantages such as reducing human risk and executing complex missions. This shift towards autonomous system not only enhance the safety but also increases missions’ efficiency.
 

Autonomous Ships Market Companies

Some of the eminent market participants operating in the autonomous ships industry include:

• Kongsberg Maritime
• Samsung Heavy Industries Co., Ltd.
• Hyundai Heavy Industries
   

Kongsberg maritime is a dominant player in market. In 2023, Kongsberg maritime has successfully completed a live trail of an autonomous vessel in Germany showing the progress company has made towards maritime automation.
 

In November 2024, Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) started fully autonomous ship operation demonstration. Samsung Heavy Industries introduced its research vessel which has been designed to integrate the latest advancements in marine automation. They have showcased that the vessel design provides excellent stability to optimize autonomous navigation research. Furthermore, Samsung Heavy Industries showcased autonomous navigation on an Evergreen containership, which successfully navigated a 1,500 km (800 nautical mile) journey in the South China Sea.
 

Partnerships in autonomous ships are rising as companies are heading towards innovations in maritime navigations. Hyundai heavy industries group (Avikus) is focusing on autonomous ship technologies, as it has partnered with American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to collaborate on real-life trials of autonomous ship technologies.
 

Autonomous Ships Industry News:

• In October 2024, Northrop Grumman highlighted proven technology with uncrewed autonomous systems (UAS). The company has now developed two mission-focused autonomous capabilities on the smaller UAS, called Helix and Scion.
   
• In January 2025, DNV launched a new family of autonomous and remotely operated ships (AROS), providing a framework to show auto remote vessels can achieve equivalent or higher safety compared to conventional vessels.
   
• In November 2024, BAE Systems announced that its extra-large autonomous underwater vehicle (XLAUV), Herne, is set to be ready for deployment by mid-2026. Herne is manufactured in such a way that it can independently navigate obstacles and avoid detection.
   

The autonomous ship market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Semi-Autonomous
• Fully Autonomous
• Remotely Operated

Market, By Propulsion Technology

• Fully Electric
• Hybrid
• Conventional

Market, By Fit

• Line-fit & Newbuild
• Retrofit

Market, By End user

• Commercial
  • Passenger Ship
  • Container Ships
  • Tankers
  • Others 
• Military & Defense
  • Submarines
  • Aircraft Carriers
  • Destroyers
  • Frigates

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

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