Satellite Vessel Tracking Market Size

The global satellite vessel tracking market was valued at USD 145.6 million in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 16.5% from 2025 to 2034.

The entire shipping industry faces increasing pressure to ensure efficient, secure, and transparent operations. Real-time maritime surveillance is essential for monitoring vessel positions, managing routes, and detecting unauthorized activities such as piracy or illegal fishing. As international trade expands and safety protocols become more stringent, governments and private sectors are increasing investments in satellite-based tracking technologies.

For instance, In June 2024, The UAE's Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center have launched the "Satgate" maritime tracking project to enhance security. The initiative aims to create a database of ships docking at UAE ports, strengthen partnerships with satellite agencies, and expand coverage for better ship monitoring. A key feature will be tracking vessels that are not using traditional tracking systems, such as those with AIS transponders turned off. This demand is driven by the need for timely data to improve operational efficiency, prevent accidents, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Recent developments in satellite technology are significantly improving maritime tracking capabilities. Innovations such as high-throughput satellites (HTS), low Earth orbit (LEO) constellations, and more reliable data transmission have enhanced global connectivity for remote maritime areas. For instance, In April 2024, vessels with AuraNow on board will benefit from enhanced satellite connectivity through a partnership between Satcom Global and Intelsat. This collaboration combines Satcom Global's bandwidth and contract flexibility with Intelsat’s global fleet of high-throughput satellites (HTS), expanding AuraNow's coverage. The partnership enhances coverage in new regions, including the far south Indian Ocean, west of Panama, and southeast Pacific, while also doubling satellite assets and improving look angle options across East Asia and the North and Mid-Atlantic. These advancements enable near-instantaneous, continuous tracking of vessels, even in previously unmonitored regions like the Arctic or remote oceans.

Satellite Vessel Tracking Market Trends

The maritime industry is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into satellite tracking solutions to enhance operational efficiency and safety. These technologies analyze vessel data, predict traffic patterns, and identify potential risks. AI-powered algorithms provide predictive maintenance insights, reducing operational disruptions.

For instance, In October 2024, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries introduced AIRIS (Artificial Intelligence Retraining in Space), a satellite technology designed to track illegal vessels, also known as the "dark fleet." AIRIS combines an Earth-observation camera with an AI-powered data processor to detect vessels not using the automatic identification system (AIS). This technology differs from traditional satellite systems by processing images on board and transmitting only essential information, rather than sending large volumes of data for analysis. This approach enhances data management efficiency and enables more effective maritime monitoring and response to illegal activities at sea.

A significant trend in the satellite tracking market is the expansion of coverage to remote and underserved maritime coastal regions, including the Arctic, deep ocean, and remote islands. For instance, In October 2024, incidents of vessels running aground highlighted risks in shallow coastal waters. To address this, Denver-based TCarta Marine introduced a solution using Earth observation satellites to provide accurate water depth measurements in near-shore areas, improving navigation safety. With increasing global trade and environmental monitoring requirements, reliable tracking and communication in these isolated areas is becoming crucial.

New satellite constellations, such as low Earth orbit (LEO) networks, are well-suited for providing global connectivity in hard-to-reach areas. These developments improve tracking capabilities and enable real-time monitoring of environmental factors like pollution, illegal fishing, and maritime accidents. Enhanced vessel tracking in remote regions strengthens global supply chain security and supports compliance with international maritime regulations and environmental standards.

Satellite Vessel Tracking Market Analysis

The satellite vessel tracking industry faces a significant restraint in the form of high costs associated with advanced technology and infrastructure, potentially limiting adoption among smaller operators. However, the market presents substantial opportunities driven by increasing demand for real-time maritime monitoring, environmental compliance, and enhanced security measures. Advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and satellite constellations are enabling more accurate and cost-effective solutions. Additionally, governments are implementing stricter maritime regulations to combat illegal activities such as piracy and pollution, creating a strong incentive for the adoption of advanced tracking systems to ensure compliance.

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Based on satellite mass, the market is segmented into below 10 kg, 10-100kg, and 100-500kg. In 2024, the 10-100kg segment accounted for the largest market share with 64.4% share.

Satellites weighing between 10 and 100kg, known as smallsats or microsatellites, provide a cost-effective solution for maritime vessel tracking. These compact satellites deliver essential data for real-time monitoring at a lower cost compared to larger satellites. Their size allows for quick deployment in constellations, offering global coverage for vessel tracking, including in remote areas previously underserved by traditional satellite systems.

The lightweight nature of smallsats enables more frequent launches, increasing the flexibility and scalability of maritime monitoring networks. These satellites can incorporate advanced technologies such as high-throughput communications and onboard AI for data processing, resulting in faster and more efficient vessel tracking. As the need for continuous monitoring increases, the growth of smallsats will be crucial in expanding coverage and improving operational efficiency across global shipping routes.

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Based on orbit class, the satellite vessel tracking market is divided into GEO, MEO, LEO. In 2024, the LEO segment is the fastest-growing segment with a CAGR of 17% during the forecast period.

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites are increasingly used for maritime vessel tracking due to their proximity to Earth, which allows for low-latency data transmission and high-frequency passes over vessels. This makes LEO satellites ideal for real-time monitoring, ensuring continuous tracking even in remote or previously underserved regions like the Arctic or deep ocean. Their ability to capture detailed, frequent data significantly enhances maritime safety and operational efficiency.

The growing deployment of LEO constellations also offers cost-effective and scalable solutions for global coverage. As LEO satellites can be launched in larger groups, they provide a dense network for tracking vessels across the world’s shipping routes. Furthermore, the relatively lower cost of LEO satellite launches and operations compared to geostationary satellites drives their adoption, particularly for smaller operators and environmental monitoring applications, making them a key enabler of the next generation of maritime surveillance.

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In 2024, the North America satellite vessel tracking market held the largest share of 34.5%, and it is predicted that it will hold its dominant position throughout the forecast period. Satellite vessel tracking is becoming essential for maritime operations in North America, with commercial and government sectors focusing on improved monitoring systems. The United States is making significant investments in satellite technology for maritime security, trade, and environmental monitoring. The expansion of space-based infrastructure and the demand for real-time vessel tracking are spurring innovation and collaborations in satellite communications. These advancements are enhancing safety, compliance, and operational efficiency across U.S. ports and international shipping routes.

China is investing heavily in satellite technology to enhance its maritime security and global trade networks. The country's expanding shipping industry and vast territorial waters necessitate advanced satellite tracking systems for real-time vessel monitoring, ensuring security and compliance. China is expanding its satellite constellations to improve capabilities for tracking vessels in remote and disputed waters, supporting domestic and international maritime operations, and enhancing environmental monitoring efforts for more sustainable shipping practices.

Germany's maritime industry is utilizing advanced satellite tracking technologies, particularly for environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance. The country is using satellite systems to track vessels entering its ports and ensure adherence to sustainability standards. As a major shipping hub, Germany is investing in AI-powered systems to optimize shipping routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve maritime safety. The country's focus on green technology and implementation of stricter environmental regulations is driving demand for more sophisticated satellite tracking solutions.

Japan is employing satellite-based vessel tracking systems to improve the efficiency of its extensive maritime trade routes. The country's maritime infrastructure relies on real-time data for route optimization and environmental compliance, especially in its fishing and shipping industries. Japan is integrating satellite technologies with its smart shipping initiatives, including the adoption of autonomous vessels. With an emphasis on innovation, Japan is enhancing safety and reducing the ecological impact of shipping through satellite-driven monitoring solutions.

South Korea is investing in satellite technologies to improve maritime safety and strengthen its maritime economy. The country uses satellite vessel tracking to monitor and manage its extensive shipping operations, ensuring compliance with international regulations and enhancing fleet management. South Korea is also prioritizing maritime environmental monitoring, using satellite data to track pollution levels and enforce sustainable shipping practices. With a growing interest in space technology, the country is developing its own satellite systems to reinforce maritime operations and security.

Satellite Vessel Tracking Market Share

Blue Sky Network, SRT Marine, and Kongsberg are expanding their presence in the satellite vessel tracking industry, offering solutions for real-time vessel monitoring, security, and operational efficiency. Blue Sky Network provides satellite connectivity and tracking solutions, enabling fleet management and compliance with maritime regulations. SRT Marine focuses on AIS-based tracking systems and enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities. Kongsberg integrates satellite communication systems with its marine solutions portfolio, supporting maritime navigation and safety.  

Satellite Vessel Tracking Market Companies

Major players operating in the satellite vessel tracking industry are:

• Addvalue Technologies
• Blue Sky Network
• Globalstar, Inc.
• Ground Control Technologies UK Ltd
• Iridium Communications Inc.
• Kleos Space
• Kongsberg
• KVH Industries, Inc.
• Saankhya Labs  
• Satlink S.L.
• Spire Global, Inc.
• SRT Marine
• Terma
• Thales Group
• Unseenlabs
  

Satellite Vessel Tracking Industry News

• In November 2024, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace signed a contract with the European space agency (ESA) to develop a satellite for the arctic ocean surveillance (AOS) project. This satellite will provide space-based maritime surveillance services for the Norwegian Government, supporting enhanced monitoring and security in Arctic waters.
  
• In January 2023, Terma delivered an AI model for Denmark's AI-based surveillance satellite project aimed at improving surveillance and intelligence gathering in the Arctic. The Danish Defence is focused on detecting land, maritime, and aerial activities in the region to enforce sovereignty and support operational tasks like search and rescue. the satellite's monitoring capabilities will also contribute to daily operational planning and enhance security in the Arctic.
  

This Satellite Vessel Tracking 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 Satellite Mass

• Below 10Kg
• 10-100kg
• 100-500kg

Market, By Orbit Class

• GEO
• MEO
• LEO

Market, By Satellite Subsystem

• Propulsion Hardware and Propellant
• Satellite Bus & Subsystems
• Solar Array & Power Hardware
• Structures, Harness & Mechanisms

Market, By End-user

• Commercial
• Military & Government
• Other

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