Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (AUVs and ROVs) Market Size, Share, Trends & Growth
Unmanned Underwater Vehicle Market By AUV (Shallow, Medium, Large), ROV (Observation Class, Medium/Small, Work Class), Application (Military, Oil & Gas, Oceanography, Search & Salvage), Propulsion, System, Speed, Shape, Region - Global Forecast to 2030
OVERVIEW
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
The unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market is projected to grow from USD 5.93 billion in 2025 to USD 8.72 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 8.0%. In terms of volume (new deliveries), the market is projected to reach 33,603 units by 2030, rising from 19,092 units in 2024. The unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market is supported by the rising adoption of autonomous underwater systems for maritime security, subsea inspection, and environmental monitoring, which enables lower operational risk and improved mission efficiency. Additionally, continued advancements in navigation, communication, and autonomy are broadening UUV use across the defense, offshore energy, and scientific domains.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
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By RegionThe European UUV market accounted for a 34.6% revenue share in 2024.
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By TypeBy type, the autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) segment is projected to register the highest CAGR (8.2%) during the forecast period.
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By ApplicationBy application, military & defense is projected to be the most dominant segment during the forecast period.
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Competitive LandscapeKongsberg, L3Harris Technologies, Inc. and Oceaneering International, Inc were identified as star players in the unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market, given their strong market share and product footprint.
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Competitive LandscapeMITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD., Msubs, and ecoSUB Robotics, among others, have distinguished themselves among startups and SMEs by securing strong footholds in specialized niche areas, underscoring their potential as emerging market leaders.
The unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market is witnessing steady growth, driven by the growing adoption of autonomous underwater systems for security, inspection, and environmental monitoring, supported by advancements in navigation, communication, and autonomy the across defense, energy, and research sectors. Additionally, the market is expected to shift toward higher-autonomy, longer-endurance platforms integrated into broader unmanned maritime systems, with expanding use cases across defense modernization, offshore energy operations, and environmental monitoring.
TRENDS & DISRUPTIONS IMPACTING CUSTOMERS' CUSTOMERS
The impact on customers’ business in the unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market is driven by shifting operational needs and advancing underwater mission requirements. Defense organizations, offshore energy operators, and hydrographic agencies rely on UUVs for maritime security, subsea inspection, and environmental monitoring. The move toward autonomous detection, long-endurance missions, advanced sensing, and hybrid UUV–ROV capabilities is reshaping operational priorities and efficiency. These shifts are increasing demand for reliable UUV platforms, integrated payloads, and data-centric underwater systems that support more complex mission profiles.
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
MARKET DYNAMICS
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Growing naval modernization programs driving demand for UUV

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Rising offshore energy exploration and pipeline inspection needs boosting UUV deployment
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Limited underwater communication bandwidth hindering real-time data transmission
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Regulatory and operational complexities in international waters and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs)
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Expansion of dual-use applications across defense, commercial, and research sectors
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Growth of unmanned underwater vehicle-as-a-service (UUVaaS) and leasing models
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Ensuring system reliability and data integrity in high-pressure environments
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Interoperability and standardization challenges across multi-OEM UUV fleets
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
Driver: Growing naval modernization programs driving demand for UUV
Growing naval modernization programs are accelerating UUV adoption as defense forces prioritize autonomous assets to enhance undersea situational awareness and reduce reliance on crewed platforms. Modern fleets are integrating UUVs to strengthen surveillance coverage, improve mine-countermeasure efficiency, and safeguard seabed infrastructure. As procurement strategies shift toward scalable, technology-driven capabilities, UUVs are becoming essential components of next-generation maritime force planning, driving sustained demand.
Restraint: Limited underwater communication bandwidth hindering real-time data transmission
Limited underwater communication bandwidth continues to constrain UUV effectiveness by restricting real-time data exchange and reducing operational visibility. Acoustic links allow only low-throughput, delay-prone transmission, forcing greater reliance on autonomous decision-making. This hampers coordination with other naval assets during dynamic missions and adds complexity to system integration. As a result, communication limitations remain a key restraint influencing procurement and capability planning in the UUV market.
Opportunity: Expansion of dual-use applications across defense, commercial, and research sectors
The expansion of dual-use applications is strengthening the commercial outlook for UUVs as defense, commercial, and research sectors converge around advanced underwater automation. Defense programs employ UUVs for surveillance and mine-countermeasure roles, while industries use them for subsea inspection, asset integrity, and environmental monitoring. Research institutions rely on these systems for deep-ocean exploration and data collection. This cross-sector alignment broadens the addressable market and supports investment in flexible, multi-mission UUV platforms.
Challenge: Ensuring system reliability and data integrity in high-pressure environments
Ensuring system reliability and data integrity in high-pressure environments remains a structural challenge for UUV development. Deep-sea operations expose hardware and sensors to extreme mechanical and thermal stress, increasing the likelihood of component fatigue and mission interruption. Consistent data quality is harder to maintain at depth, particularly during extended deployments. These factors elevate engineering complexity, drive demand for pressure-resilient architectures, and influence lifecycle costs and procurement decisions in the UUV market.
unmanned-underwater-vehicles-market: COMMERCIAL USE CASES ACROSS INDUSTRIES
| COMPANY | USE CASE DESCRIPTION | BENEFITS |
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Onboard secure data storage supporting long-endurance UUV operations | Strengthens data protection | Lowers SWaP requirements | Improves mission reliability in deep-water environments. |
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Autonomous inspection of underwater infrastructure and marine assets | Provides accurate surveys | Reduces operational risk | Enables continuous monitoring without diver intervention |
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Autonomous mine-countermeasure operations using HUGIN AUV with advanced sonar and navigation | Improves detection accuracy | Expands coverage | Reduces reliance on manned vessels and diver teams |
Logos and trademarks shown above are the property of their respective owners. Their use here is for informational and illustrative purposes only.
MARKET ECOSYSTEM
The unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) ecosystem operates through a defined value chain that includes platform manufacturers, subsystem suppliers, and multi-sector end users. AUV and ROV manufacturers provide the core vehicles used for defense, inspection, and research missions, while system & mission payload suppliers deliver navigation, sensing, and communication technologies that determine operational capability. End users across defense, industrial, academic, and environmental sectors apply these systems for surveillance, subsea asset monitoring, and scientific analysis. This structure enables coordinated development of platforms and mission payloads to meet diverse underwater operational needs.
Logos and trademarks shown above are the property of their respective owners. Their use here is for informational and illustrative purposes only.
MARKET SEGMENTS
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) Market, By Type
The AUVs segment is projected to lead the unmanned underground vehicle (UUV) category due to untethered operations that lower deployment costs and enable efficient coverage of large, deep-water environments. Additionally, their autonomous navigation and modular payloads make them preferred for defense surveillance, subsea surveying, and offshore asset management. Rising demand for scalable and cost-efficient underwater operations further reinforces their dominance.
Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) Market, By Shape
The torpedo configuration remains the dominant AUV design because it delivers strong hydrodynamic efficiency, minimal drag, and extended operational endurance. This performance profile makes it the preferred choice for naval surveillance tasks, ocean-mapping missions, and inspection activities across offshore energy operations.
Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) Market, By Propulsion
The electric segment lead the UUV market due to their energy efficiency, lower operating costs, and suitability for long-duration autonomous missions. Their quiet operation and reduced maintenance needs make them well aligned with defense, research, and survey requirements.
Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) Market, By System
The payload & sensor systems segment is expected to lead the market because mission value depends on data quality and drives the demand for advanced imaging, sonar, and environmental sensors. Operators prioritize these capabilities to support defense, energy, and scientific applications.
Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) Market, By Application
The military & defense dominate the market as the navy deploy UUVs for surveillance, mine-countermeasure operations, and intelligence tasks. Additionally, the growing focus on undersea situational awareness and autonomous force structure strengthens this segment’s lead.
Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Market, By Size
The WCROV - Work Class Remotely Operated Vehicle (> 907 KG) segment is estimated to dominate as these vehicles offer power, depth rating, and tooling capability required for complex subsea intervention and maintenance tasks. Their suitability for deepwater operations and ability to support heavy industrial workloads make them the primary choice for offshore and infrastructure-related missions.
Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) Market, By Speed
The more than 5 knots segment dominates the market as UUVs exceeding 5 knots offer high transit speed that improves mission efficiency and response time. These platforms are suited for wide-area surveillance, rapid inspection tasks, and time-sensitive defense operations.
REGION
Asia Pacific to be fastest-growing region in global unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market during forecast period
The Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest-growing market during the forecast period. Governments in the region are strengthening maritime security and surveillance across strategically sensitive waters. Expanding offshore energy development and subsea infrastructure projects are increasing the demand for autonomous inspection and survey systems. Concurrent investments in naval modernization and marine research are further driving adoption across defense and commercial sectors.

unmanned-underwater-vehicles-market: COMPANY EVALUATION MATRIX
In the unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market matrix, Kongsberg (Star) leads with a strong competitive position supported by a broad product portfolio and established presence across defense and commercial applications. Its advanced AUV platforms and mission systems are widely adopted for naval surveillance, subsea inspection, and ocean research, reinforcing its leadership across key operational domains. On the other hands, Forum Energy Technologies (Emerging Leader) is strengthening its position through specialized ROV platforms and mission-focused subsea tools tailored for offshore and industrial operations. Its targeted innovation and niche capabilities position it to move toward the leaders’ quadrant as demand for efficient inspection and intervention solutions grows.
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
KEY MARKET PLAYERS
- Kongsberg (Norway)
- Oceaneering International, Inc (US)
- BAE Systems (UK)
- L3Harris Technologies, Inc (US)
- Saipem S.p.A (Italy)
- Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (US)
- HII (US)
- General Dynamics Corporation (US)
- Boeing (US)
- Lockheed Martin Corporation (US)
- Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd (Japan)
- TKMS (Germany)
- Boston Engineering (US)
- AeroVironment, Inc. (US)
- Xylem Inc. (US)
- International Submarine Engineering Limited (Canada)
- Northrop Grumman (US)
- Saab AB (Sweden)
- Exail Technologies (France)
- Forum Energy Technologies, Inc. (US)
MARKET SCOPE
| REPORT METRIC | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Market Size in 2024 (Value) | USD 5.55 Billion |
| Market Forecast in 2030 (Value) | USD 8.72 Billion |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 8.0% from 2025–2030 |
| Years Considered | 2021–2030 |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025–2030 |
| Units Considered | Value (USD Billion), Volume (Units) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
| Segments Covered |
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| Regions Covered | North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East, Rest of the World |
WHAT IS IN IT FOR YOU: unmanned-underwater-vehicles-market REPORT CONTENT GUIDE

DELIVERED CUSTOMIZATIONS
We have successfully delivered the following deep-dive customizations:
| CLIENT REQUEST | CUSTOMIZATION DELIVERED | VALUE ADDS |
|---|---|---|
| Leading Manufacturer | Additional segment breakdown for countries |
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| Emerging Leader | Additional company profiles | Competitive information on targeted players to gain granular insights on direct competition |
| Regional Market Leader | Additional country market estimates | Additional country-level deep dive for a more targeted understanding of the total addressable market |
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
- October 2025 : The University of Gothenburg signed a purchase contract with Kongsberg Discovery for a new HUGIN AUV to replace the lost vehicle “Ran.” The system will support under-ice and deep-sea research with enhanced navigation and safety features.
- October 2025 : Forum Energy Technologies secured a contract to supply two XLX EVO III work-class ROVs to Marine Platforms in Nigeria. The deal strengthens Marine Platforms’ subsea operational capabilities using FET’s new-generation vehicle. The delivery supports ongoing offshore oil and gas activities in the region.
- July 2025 : HII signed a multi-year production agreement with Hitachi Ltd. for the delivery of over a dozen REMUS 300 small uncrewed undersea vehicles. The program extends HII’s collaboration with Japan and supports interoperability with allied naval forces.
- May 2025 : Saab Kockums and Klein Marine Systems signed a development agreement to supply synthetic aperture sonar hardware for integration into the AUV62-MR, Saab’s mine countermeasure AUV contracted by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV).
- March 2025 : Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (US) announced that it has agreed to acquire Valeport Holdings Limited (UK), which designs and manufactures underwater sensors for environmental, energy, construction, and defense applications.
Table of Contents
Exclusive indicates content/data unique to MarketsandMarkets and not available with any competitors.
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5.1 ECOSYSTEM ANALYSISPROMINENT COMPANIESPRIVATE AND SMALL ENTERPRISESEND-USE
- 5.2 VALUE CHAIN ANALYSIS
- 5.3 SUPPLY CHAIN ANALYSIS
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5.4 PRICING ANALYSISAVERAGE SELLING PRICE OF UUV TYPE, BY KEY PLAYERS, 2025AVERAGE SELLING PRICE TREND BY REGION, 2019-2025
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5.5 IMPACT OF 2025 US TARIFF – UNMANNED UNDERWATER VEHICLE (UUV) MARKETINTRODUCTIONKEY TARIFF RATESPRICE IMPACT ANALYSISIMPACT ON COUNTRY/REGION- US- EUROPE- ASIA PACIFICIMPACT ON END-USE INDUSTRIES
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5.6 TRADE ANALYSISIMPORT SCENARIO (HS CODE: 9015.80.90)EXPORT SCENARIO (HS CODE: 9015.80.90)
- 5.7 CASE STUDY ANALYSIS
- 5.8 KEY CONFERENCES & EVENTS 2025-2026
- 5.9 INVESTMENT AND FUNDING SCENARIO
- 5.10 TRENDS/DISRUPTION IMPACTING CUSTOMER’S BUSINESS
- 5.11 OPERATIONAL DATA
- 5.12 TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP (TCO)
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5.13 MACROECONOMIC OUTLOOKINTRODUCTIONGDP TRENDS AND FORECASTTRENDS IN GLOBAL UNDERWATER MARITIME VEHICLES INDUSTRYTRENDS IN GLOBAL MARINE INDUSTRY
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5.14 KEY STAKEHOLDERS & BUYING CRITERIAKEY STAKEHOLDERS IN BUYING PROCESSBUYING CRITERIA
- 5.15 VOLUME DATA
- 5.16 BILL OF MATERIALS
- 5.17 BUSINESS MODEL
- 6.1 KEY EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
- 6.2 COMPLEMENTARY TECHNOLOGIES
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6.3 TECHNOLOGY ROADMAPADVANCED COMMUNICATION ECOSYSTEM IN UUV- ARCHITECTURE OVERVIEW- PERFORMANCE MATRIX- INNOVATION ROADMAP (2025-2030)- CHALLENGES & GAPSENERGY & BATTERY TECHNOLOGIES FOR UUV ENDURANCE- BATTERY CHEMISTRY COMPARISON TABLE- DESIGN TRADE-OFF MATRIX- INNOVATION ROADMAP (2025-2030)- CHALLENGES & GAPSOTHER EVOLVING TECHNOLOGIES FOR UUV
- 6.4 PATENT ANALYSIS
- 6.5 FUTURE APPLICATIONS
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6.6 IMPACT OF AI/GEN AI ON UUV MARKETTOP USE CASES AND MARKET POTENTIALBEST PRACTICES IN UUV SYSTEMCASE STUDIES OF AI IMPLEMENTATION IN THE UUV MARKETINTERCONNECTED ADJACENT ECOSYSTEM AND IMPACT ON MARKET PLAYERSCLIENTS’ READINESS TO ADOPT GENERATIVE AI IN UUV MARKET
- 6.7 IMPACT OF MEGATRENDS
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7.1 REGIONAL REGULATIONS AND COMPLIANCEREGULATORY BODIES, GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONSINDUSTRY STANDARDS
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7.2 SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVESCARBON IMPACT AND ECO-APPLICATIONS OF UUV
- 7.3 SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT AND REGULATORY POLICY INITIATIVES
- 7.4 CERTIFICATIONS, LABELING, ECO-STANDARDS
- 8.1 DECISION-MAKING PROCESS
- 8.2 BUYER STAKEHOLDERS AND BUYING EVALUATION CRITERIA
- 8.3 ADOPTION BARRIERS & INTERNAL CHALLENGES
- 8.4 UNMET NEEDS FROM VARIOUS END-USE INDUSTRIES
- 9.1 INTRODUCTION
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9.2 REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLES (ROVS)USE CASE: REMUS-100 HAS BEEN EXPLICITLY FIELDED FOR VERY-SHALLOW WATER MCM MISSIONS
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9.3 AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER VEHICLES (AUVS)USE CASE: MBARI’S SEAFLOOR MAPPING DEEP-RATED SURVEY VEHICLES LAUNCHED ON FULLY AUTONOMOUS MISSIONS TO 6,000 M
- 10.1 INTRODUCTION
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10.2 OCROV - OBSERVATION CLASS REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLE (UP TO 91 KG)MICRO (SMALL) OCROVS (<4.5 KG)MINI OCROVS (4.5 – 32 KG)LARGE OCROVS (32 – 91 KG)
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10.3 MSROV - MEDIUM/SMALL REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLE (91-907 KG)SHALLOW MSROVS (< 1,000 METRES)DEEPWATER MSROV (1,000 – 2,0000 METRES)HEAVY MSROV/LIGHT WORK CLASS ROV (>2,000 METRES)
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10.4 WCROV - WORK CLASS REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLE (> 907 KG)STANDARD WORK CLASS ROV (100 – 200 HP)HEAVY WORK CLASS ROV (>200 HP)
- 11.1 INTRODUCTION
- 11.2 LESS THAN 5 KNOTS
- 11.3 MORE THAN 5 KNOTS
- 12.1 INTRODUCTION
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12.2 ELECTRIC ROVUSE CASE: REMUS SERIES LI-ION BATTERY SYSTEMS DEVELOPED WITH SAFT/MATHEWS, FROM 1–16 KWH PACKS FOR LONGER MISSIONS
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12.3 MECHANICAL ROVUSE CASE: SLOCUM G3 GLIDER – OPTIMIZED FOR LONG ENDURANCE WITH A BUOYANCY ENGINE AND WINGS FOR COASTAL PROGRAMS
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12.4 HYBRID ROVUSE CASE: EARLY PEM FUEL-CELL UUV PROTOTYPES DELIVERING ~4 KW FOR PROPULSION WITH HYDROGEN STORED IN METAL HYDRIDE TANKS
- 13.1 INTRODUCTION
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13.2 MILITARY & DEFENSEBORDER SECURITY & SURVEILLANCEANTISUBMARINE WARFAREANTI-TRAFFICKING & CONTRABAND MONITORINGENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTMINE COUNTERMEASURE IDENTIFICATION
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13.3 OIL & GASPIPELINE SURVEYSGEOPHYSICAL SURVEYSDEBRIS/CLEARANCE SURVEYSBASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
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13.4 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION & MONITORINGHABITAT RESEARCHWATER SAMPLINGFISHERY STUDYEMERGENCY RESPONSE
- 13.5 OCEANOGRAPHY
- 13.6 ARCHAEOLOGY & EXPLORATION
- 13.7 SEARCH & SALVAGE OPERATIONS
- 14.1 INTRODUCTION
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14.2 COLLISION AVOIDANCEFORWARD-LOOKING SONAR (FLS)OTHERS (PROXIMITY & OBSTACLE SENSING SYSTEMS, PILOT ASSIST & VISUALIZATION)
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14.3 COMMUNICATION & NETWORKINGTETHER-BASED COMMUNICATION SYSTEMSACOUSTIC COMMUNICATION SYSTEMSSURFACE & BACKHAUL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMSOTHERS (ONBOARD DATA NETWORKING SYSTEMS)
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14.4 NAVIGATION & GUIDANCEINERTIAL & DEAD-RECKONING SYSTEMS- INERTIAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM (INS)- COMPASS-BASED NAVIGATION- OTHERS (DVL, PRESSURE/DEPTH ALTIMETER)ACOUSTIC NAVIGATION SYSTEMSOTHERS (VELOCITY & MOTION SENSING SYSTEMS, TMS & UMBILICAL POSITION FEEDBACK SYSTEMS, SURFACE / VESSEL REFERENCE POSITIONING)
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14.5 PROPULSION & MOBILITY SYSTEMSTHRUST GENERATION SUBSYSTEM- PROPULSION MOTORS- THRUSTERS- OTHERS (PROPELLERS)HYDRAULIC POWER & ACTUATION SYSTEMS- HYDRAULIC POWER UNIT (HPU)- HYDRAULIC MANIFOLDS & VALVE BLOCKS- OTHERS (HYDRAULIC HOSE INTERFACES, TOOLS/MANIPULATORS)BUOYANCY & VERTICAL MOTION SUBSYSTEM- PUMP MOTORS- VARIABLE BUOYANCY DEVICES- OTHERS (BALLAST TANKS)OTHERS (FRAME & STRUCTURAL MOBILITY INTERFACES)
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14.6 PAYLOAD & SENSOR SYSTEMSACOUSTIC IMAGING & MAPPING PAYLOADS- SIDE-SCAN SONAR IMAGERS- MULTIBEAM ECHO SOUNDERS- SYNTHETIC APERTURE SONAR (SAS)- SUB-BOTTOM PROFILERS- OTHERS (SINGLE, SPLIT BEAM ECHO SOUNDERS)OPTICAL IMAGING PAYLOADS- HIGH-RESOLUTION DIGITAL STILL CAMERA- DUAL-EYE CAMERA- OTHERS (LED LIGHTING, STROBES, LASERS FOR ILLUMINATION)ENVIRONMENTAL & OCEANOGRAPHIC SENSOR PAYLOADS- CONDUCTIVITY, TEMPERATURE AND DEPTH SENSORS (CTD)- BIOGEOCHEMICAL SENSORS- ACOUSTIC DOPPLER CURRENT PROFILERS (ADCP)OTHERS (MANIPULATION & INTERVENTION SYSTEMS, MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION TOOLING SYSTEMS, NDT & SPECIAL APPLICATION PAYLOADS)
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14.7 CHASSISMETAL ALLOYSFIBER-REINFORCED COMPOSITESOTHERS (ENGINEERING PLASTICS, SYNTATIC FOAMS)
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14.8 POWER & ENERGY SYSTEMENERGY STORAGE- BATTERY MODULES (LITHIUM-ION / LITHIUM-POLYMER BATTERY MODULES)- PRESSURE-TOLERANT SUBSEA BATTERY SYSTEM- SUPERCAPACITORSPOWER MANAGEMENT & DISTRIBUTION- BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS- DC/DC CONVERTERS- BUSBARS- OTHERS (BREAKERS, CONTACTORS, HARNESSES)OTHERS (SURFACE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS, POWER TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS)
- 14.9 OTHERS (CONTROL, AUTONOMY & MISSION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, SAFETY, RECOVERY & HEALTH MONITORING SYSTEM, LAUNCH, RECOVERY & TETHER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS)
- 15.1 INTRODUCTION
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15.2 SHALLOW AUVS (UP TO 100 METRES)USE CASE: REMUS-100 HAS BEEN EXPLICITLY FIELDED FOR VERY-SHALLOW WATER MCM MISSIONSMICRO/SMALL AUV (UP TO 20 KG)MINI AUV (20 – 100 KG)
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15.3 MEDIUM AUVS (100 – 1,000 METRES)USE CASE: MBARI’S SEAFLOOR MAPPING DEEP-RATED SURVEY VEHICLES LAUNCHED ON FULLY AUTONOMOUS MISSIONS
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15.4 LARGE AUVS (>1,000 METRES)USE CASE: ORCA’S 8-TON PAYLOAD BAY AND 6,500 NM RANGE ARE ENABLED FOR MODULAR MISSION PACKAGESDEEP WATER AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER VEHICLE (1,000 – 3,000 METERS)LARGE DISPLACEMENT AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER VEHICLE (3,000 – 6,000 METERS)EXTRA LARGE AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER VEHICLE (>6,000 METERS)
- 16.1 INTRODUCTION
- 16.2 TORPEDO
- 16.3 LAMINAR FLOW BODY
- 16.4 STREAMLINED RECTANGULAR STYLE
- 16.5 MULTI-HULL VEHICLE
- 17.1 INTRODUCTION
- 17.2 LESS THAN 5 KNOTS
- 17.3 MORE THAN 5 KNOTS
- 18.1 INTRODUCTION
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18.2 ELECTRIC AUVUSE CASE: REMUS SERIES LI-ION BATTERY SYSTEMS DEVELOPED WITH SAFT/MATHEWS, FROM 1–16 KWH PACKS FOR LONGER MISSIONS
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18.3 MECHANICAL AUVUSE CASE: SLOCUM G3 GLIDER – OPTIMIZED FOR LONG ENDURANCE WITH A BUOYANCY ENGINE AND WINGS FOR COASTAL PROGRAMS
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18.4 HYBRID AUVUSE CASE: EARLY PEM FUEL-CELL AUV PROTOTYPES DELIVERING ~4 KW FOR PROPULSION WITH HYDROGEN STORED IN METAL HYDRIDE TANKS
- 19.1 INTRODUCTION
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19.2 MILITARY & DEFENSEBORDER SECURITY & SURVEILLANCEANTISUBMARINE WARFAREANTI-TRAFFICKING & CONTRABAND MONITORINGENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTMINE COUNTERMEASURE IDENTIFICATION
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19.3 OIL & GASPIPELINE SURVEYSGEOPHYSICAL SURVEYSDEBRIS/CLEARANCE SURVEYSBASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
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19.4 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION & MONITORINGHABITAT RESEARCHWATER SAMPLINGFISHERY STUDYEMERGENCY RESPONSE
- 19.5 OCEANOGRAPHY
- 19.6 ARCHAEOLOGY & EXPLORATION
- 19.7 SEARCH & SALVAGE OPERATIONS
- 20.1 INTRODUCTION
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20.2 COLLISION AVOIDANCEFORWARD-LOOKING SONAR (FLS)OTHERS (BLOW-BALLAST/EMERGENCY BUOYANCY ACTIVATION)
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20.3 COMMUNICATION & NETWORKINGUNDERWATER ACOUSTIC COMMUNICATION SYSTEMSSUBSEA WIRELESS OPTICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMSSURFACE RADIO-FREQUENCY (RF) & WI-FI COMMUNICATION SYSTEMSSATELLITE COMMUNICATION INTERFACESOTHERS (ADVANCED COMMUNICATION GATEWAY SYSTEMS)
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20.4 NAVIGATION & GUIDANCEINERTIAL & DEAD-RECKONING SYSTEMS- INERTIAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM (INS)- COMPASS-BASED NAVIGATION- OTHERS (DVL, PRESSURE/DEPTH ALTIMETER)ACOUSTIC NAVIGATION SYSTEMSOTHERS (TERRAIN, HYBRID, ADAPTIVE MISSION CONTROL & SENSOR FUSION SYSTEM, INTEGRATED / HYBRID NAVIGATION SYSTEMS)
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20.5 PROPULSION & MOBILITYTHRUST GENERATION SUBSYSTEM- PROPULSION MOTORS- THRUSTERS- OTHERS (PROPELLERS)MOTION & CONTROL ACTUATION SUBSYSTEM- FIN CONTROL ACTUATORS- SERVO/LINEAR ELECTROMECHANICAL ACTUATORSBUOYANCY & VERTICAL MOTION SUBSYSTEM- PUMP MOTORS- VARIABLE BUOYANCY DEVICES- OTHERS (BALLAST TANKS)OTHERS (SHAFTS, SEALS, DRIVES)
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20.6 PAYLOAD & SENSOR SYSTEMSACOUSTIC IMAGING & MAPPING PAYLOADS- SIDE-SCAN SONAR IMAGERS- MULTIBEAM ECHO SOUNDERS- SYNTHETIC APERTURE SONAR (SAS)- SUB-BOTTOM PROFILERS- OTHERS (SINGLE, SPLIT BEAM ECHO SOUNDERS)OPTICAL IMAGING PAYLOADS- HIGH-RESOLUTION DIGITAL STILL CAMERA- DUAL-EYE CAMERA- OTHERS (LED LIGHTING, STROBES, LASERS FOR ILLUMINATION)ENVIRONMENTAL & OCEANOGRAPHIC SENSOR PAYLOADS- CONDUCTIVITY, TEMPERATURE AND DEPTH SENSORS (CTD)- BIOGEOCHEMICAL SENSORS- ACOUSTIC DOPPLER CURRENT PROFILERS (ADCP)OTHERS (SPECIALIZED / MISSION-SPECIFIC PAYLOADS- MAGNETOMETER, HYDROPHONES, SAMPLERS, SENSOR FUSION & AI-DRIVEN PAYLOAD SUITES)
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20.7 CHASSISMETAL ALLOYSFIBER-REINFORCED COMPOSITESOTHERS (ENGINEERING PLASTICS, SYNTATIC FOAMS)
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20.8 POWER & ENERGY SYSTEMENERGY STORAGE- BATTERY MODULES (LITHIUM-ION / LITHIUM-POLYMER BATTERY MODULES)- PRESSURE-TOLERANT SUBSEA BATTERY SYSTEM- SUPERCAPACITORSPOWER MANAGEMENT & DISTRIBUTION- BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS- DC/DC CONVERTERS- BUSBARS- OTHERS (BREAKERS, CONTACTORS, HARNESSES)OTHERS (DOCKING & CHARGING SYSTEMS)
- 20.9 OTHERS (CONTROL, AUTONOMY & MISSION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, SAFETY & RECOVERY SYSTEM, DATA STORAGE & HANDLING)
- 21.1 INTRODUCTION
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21.2 NORTH AMERICAPESTLE ANALYSIS: NORTH AMERICAUSCANADA
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21.3 EUROPEPESTLE ANALYSIS: EUROPEUKGERMANYFRANCEITALYSPAINNORWAYREST OF EUROPE
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21.4 ASIA PACIFICPESTLE ANALYSIS: ASIA PACIFICCHINAJAPANINDIASOUTH KOREAAUSTRALIAREST OF ASIA PACIFIC
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21.5 MIDDLE EASTPESTLE ANALYSIS: MIDDLE EASTGCC- UAE- SAUDI ARABIAISRAELTURKEYREST OF MIDDLE EAST
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21.6 REST OF THE WORLDPESTLE ANALYSIS: REST OF THE WORLDLATIN AMERICAAFRICA
- 22.1 OVERVIEW
- 22.2 KEY PLAYER STRATEGIES/RIGHT TO WIN
- 22.3 MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS, 2024
- 22.4 REVENUE ANALYSIS, 2020-2024
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22.5 COMPANY EVALUATION MATRIX: KEY PLAYERS, 2024STARSEMERGING LEADERSPERVASIVE PLAYERSPARTICIPANTSCOMPANY FOOTPRINT: KEY PLAYERS, 2024- Company Footprint- Region Footprint- Type Footprint- Application Footprint- Speed Footprint
- 22.6 COMPANY VALUATION AND FINANCIAL METRICS
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22.7 COMPANY EVALUATION MATRIX: START-UPS/SME, 2024PROGRESSIVE COMPANIESRESPONSIVE COMPANIESDYNAMIC COMPANIESSTARTING BLOCKSCOMPETITIVE BENCHMARKING: STARTUPS/SMES, 2024- Detailed List of Startups/SMEs- Competitive Benchmarking of Key Startups/SMEs
- 22.8 TECHNOLOGY COMPARISON
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22.9 COMPETITIVE SCENARIOPRODUCT LAUNCHESDEALSEXPANSIONS
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23.1 KEY PLAYERSKONGSBERG DISCOVERYTELEDYNE TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATEDKAWASAKI HEAVY INDUSTRIESGENERAL DYNAMICS CORPORATIONSAAB ABEXAIL TECHNOLOGIESLOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATIONATLAS ELEKTRONIKL3HARRIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.BOSTON ENGINEERINGHIIOCEANEERING INTERNATIONALECA GROUPBAE SYSTEMSPHOENIX INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS, INC.
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23.2 OTHER PLAYERSINTERNATIONAL SUBMARINE ENGINEERING LIMITEDMSUBSFALMOUTH SCIENTIFIC, INC.TERRADEPTHECOSUB ROBOTICS LIMITEDEELUME ASHYDROMEABOEINGGRAAL TECH S.R.L.RIPTIDE AUTONOMOUS SOLUTIONS LLCBALTROBOTICSSONARDYNEOCEANSCAN-MSTXYLEMRTSYS
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24.1 RESEARCH DATASECONDARY DATA- Key data from secondary sourcesPRIMARY DATA- Key data from primary sources- Key primary participants- Breakdown of primary interviews- Key industry insights
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24.2 MARKET SIZE ESTIMATIONBOTTOM-UP APPROACHTOP-DOWN APPROACHBASE NUMBER CALCULATION
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24.3 MARKET FORECAST APPROACHSUPPLY SIDEDEMAND SIDE
- 24.4 DATA TRIANGULATION
- 24.5 FACTOR ANALYSIS
- 24.6 RESEARCH ASSUMPTIONS
- 24.7 RESEARCH LIMITATIONS AND RISK ASSESSMENT
- 25.1 DISCUSSION GUIDE
- 25.2 KNOWLEDGESTORE: MARKETSANDMARKETS’ SUBSCRIPTION PORTAL
- 25.3 CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS
- 25.4 RELATED REPORTS
- 25.5 AUTHOR DETAILS
Methodology
The study involved four major activities in estimating the current size of the unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market. Exhaustive secondary research was done to collect information on the UUV market, its adjacent markets, and its parent market. The next step was to validate these findings, assumptions, and sizing with industry experts across the value chain through primary research. Demand-side analysis was conducted to estimate the overall market size. After that, market breakdown and data triangulation procedures were employed to estimate the sizes of various segments and subsegments within the market.
Secondary Research
During the secondary research process, various sources were consulted to identify and collect information for this study. The secondary sources included government sources, such as SIPRI; corporate filings, including annual reports, press releases, and investor presentations from companies; white papers, journals, and certified publications; and articles from recognized authors, directories, and databases.
Primary Research
Extensive primary research was conducted after acquiring information regarding the UUV market scenario through secondary research. Several primary interviews were conducted with market experts from the demand and supply sides across major countries of North America, Europe, the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and the Rest of the world. Primary data was collected through questionnaires, emails, and telephonic interviews.
Note: Others include sales, managers, and product managers.
Company tiers are based on the value chain; the company's revenue is not considered.
To know about the assumptions considered for the study, download the pdf brochure
Market Size Estimation
The top-down and bottom-up approaches were used to estimate and validate the size of the UUV market. The research methodology used to estimate the size of the market included the following details:
- Key players in the UUV market were identified through secondary research, and their market shares were determined through a combination of primary and secondary research. This included a study of the annual and financial reports of the top market players, as well as extensive interviews with leaders, including directors, engineers, marketing executives, and other key stakeholders of leading companies operating in the market.
- All percentage shares, splits, and breakdowns were determined using secondary sources and verified through primary sources.
- All possible parameters that affect the markets covered in this research study were accounted for, viewed in extensive detail, verified through primary research, and analyzed to obtain the final quantitative and qualitative data on the UUV market. This data was consolidated, enhanced with detailed inputs, analyzed by MarketsandMarkets, and presented in this report.
Unmanned Underwater Vehicle Market : Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approach

Data Triangulation
After determining the overall market size, the total market was divided into several segments and subsegments. The data triangulation and market breakdown procedures explained below were implemented, wherever applicable, to complete the overall market engineering process and arrive at the estimated market numbers for the market segments and subsegments. The data was triangulated by studying various factors and trends from the demand and supply sides. Additionally, the market size was validated using top-down and bottom-up approaches.
Market Definition
An unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) is a self-propelled underwater robotic system used for autonomous or remotely supervised operations across defense, commercial, and research activities. It supports missions such as seafloor mapping, inspection, surveillance, and data collection, enabling efficient underwater tasks without exposing personnel to operational risks.
Key Stakeholders
- Manufacturers and OEMs
- Component and Subsystem Suppliers
- System Integrators
- End Users
- Service Providers
- Regulatory and Certification Bodies
- Research & Technology Institutions
- Investors and Funding Agencies
Report Objectives
- To define, describe, and forecast the unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market based on type, shape, speed, propulsion, application, system, and cost
- To forecast the size of different segments of the market with respect to North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and the Rest of the World
- To identify and analyze the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges influencing the growth of the market
- To identify industry trends, market trends, and technology trends currently prevailing in the market
- To analyze micro markets with respect to individual growth trends, prospects, and their contribution to the overall market
- To analyze the degree of competition in the market by analyzing recent developments adopted by leading market players
- To provide a detailed competitive landscape of the market, along with a ranking analysis of key players, and an analysis of startup companies in the market
- To strategically profile the key market players and comprehensively analyze their core competencies
- To provide a detailed competitive landscape of the market, along with a market share analysis and revenue analysis of key players
Available Customizations:
MarketsandMarkets offers the following customizations for this market report:
- Additional country-level analysis of the unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market
- Profiling of other market players (up to 5)
Product Analysis
- Product matrix, which provides a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of each company in the unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) market
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User
Feb, 2020
I would like to know the market potential for body/chase materials used in USV and UUV body and would also like to know the relevant reports as per the requirement..