Top 10 Companies in Aircraft Carrier Market: Statistics Report Till 2035
RELEASE DATE: Sep 2025 Author: Spherical InsightsRequest Free Sample Speak to Analyst
Description
According to a research report published by Spherical Insights & Consulting, The Global Aircraft Carrier Market Size is projected to Grow from USD 1.49 Billion in 2024 to USD 2.94 Billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 6.37% during the forecast period 2025–2035. The government's emphasis on enhancing naval capabilities is greatly propelling growth in the aircraft carrier market, while rising defense budgets and strategic efforts highlight the necessity of modernizing and expanding naval fleets. Moreover, strong R&D initiatives and partnerships with defense firms promote innovation and speed up development schedules. The focus on updating fleets, encompassing retrofitting and tech enhancements, additionally boosts market demand.
Introduction
The global aircraft carrier market encompasses the domain of designing, manufacturing, deploying, and upgrading aircraft carriers, large naval ships that act as mobile airbases, enabling the launch and recovery of aircraft on the ocean. This sector is a vital part of the aerospace and defense field, influenced by geopolitical factors, technological advancements, and national security needs. An aircraft carrier is a naval vessel that serves as a maritime airbase equipped with a flight deck and amenities for launching, arming, retrieving, and transporting fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and unmanned aerial vehicles. The aircraft carrier sector is witnessing substantial expansion during the projected period due to escalating territorial conflicts among various nations, such as India, China, and the U.S. Defense forces are intensifying their efforts to improve naval capabilities to achieve much greater influence abroad. The U.S., U.K., China, Russia, and India are primarily concentrating on enhancing naval combat abilities to fortify coastal defenses. Consequently, the acquisition and construction of aircraft carriers are amplified in a rapidly expanding market revenue.
Navigate Future Markets with Confidence: Insights from Spherical Insights LLP
The insights presented in this blog are derived from comprehensive market research conducted by Spherical Insights LLP, a trusted advisory partner to leading global enterprises. Backed by in-depth data analysis, expert forecasting, and industry-specific intelligence, our reports empower decision-makers to identify strategic growth opportunities in fast-evolving sectors. Clients seeking detailed market segmentation, competitive landscapes, regional outlooks, and future investment trends will find immense value in the full report. By leveraging our research, businesses can make informed decisions, gain a competitive edge, and stay ahead in the transition toward sustainable and profitable solutions.
Unlock exclusive market insights - Download the Brochure now and dive deeper into the future of the Aircraft Carrier Market.
Aircraft Carrier Market Size & Statistics
- The Market Size for Aircraft Carrier Was Estimated to be worth USD 1.49 Billion in 2024.
- The Market Size is Going to Expand at a CAGR of 6.37% between 2025 and 2035.
- The Global Aircraft Carrier Market Size is anticipated to reach USD 2.94 Billion by 2035.
- North America is expected to generate the highest demand during the forecast period in the global aircraft carrier market.
- Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period in the global aircraft carrier market.
Regional growth and demand
Asia Pacific is expected to grow the fastest during the forecast period in the global aircraft carrier market.
Major nations such as China and India are at the forefront, significantly investing in the advancement and modernization of their carrier fleets to improve maritime security and power projection. China's progress in carrier technology, featuring the creation of homegrown carriers, highlights its strategic goals. India also emphasizes domestically designed carriers to enhance its naval strength. The market gains from local partnerships and advancements in propulsion technologies, avionics, and drones.
North America is expected to generate the highest demand during the forecast period in the global aircraft carrier market.
The cutting-edge technologies like nuclear propulsion, stealth capabilities, and the incorporation of unmanned systems are emphasized to boost operational efficiency and readiness for combat. The region experiences strong defense budgets, resulting in significant financial support for research, development, and acquisition. Major companies such as Huntington Ingalls Industries and General Dynamics play a crucial role in progressing carrier designs and their construction. Moreover, governmental backing via strategic defense programs and partnerships enhances market expansion.
Top 10 trends in the Aircraft Carrier Market
- Transition to Multi-Role and Modular Configurations
- Incorporation of Unmanned Vehicles (UAVs and UUVs)
- Sophisticated Launch and Retrieval Systems
- Heightened Emphasis on Concealment and Longevity
- Embracement of Nuclear Propulsion
- Digitization and AI Incorporation
- Creation of More Compact, Economical Carriers
- Intricate and Worldwide Supply Networks
- Cybersecurity as a Vital Issue
1. Transition to Multi-Role and Modular Configurations
Contemporary aircraft carriers are being engineered for greater versatility, evolving from a singular mission focus (e.g., offensive) to handle a variety of tasks, comprising defensive and support functions. Modular building is an important trend, enabling economical manufacturing and simplified enhancements over the ship's extended lifespan.
2. Sophisticated Launch and Retrieval Systems
New technologies are substituting conventional steam catapults. The primary trend is the implementation of Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS) and sophisticated arresting gear, which enhance aircraft launching and recovery operations, are more energy-efficient, and are capable of accommodating a broader variety of aircraft, including UAVs.
3. Embracement of Nuclear Propulsion
Embracing conventionally powered carriers is still under construction, a distinct movement towards nuclear propulsion for future carriers. Nuclear-powered carriers provide greatly enhanced endurance and operational adaptability, as they do not depend on regular refueling.
4. Digitization and AI Incorporation
The whole carrier environment is increasingly becoming digital. This encompasses the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning for various purposes.
5. Cybersecurity as a Vital Issue
With increased digital integration, carriers' command, control, and communication systems face greater susceptibility to cyberattacks. A significant trend is the growing emphasis on building strong cybersecurity measures to safeguard these systems from being incapacitated during a conflict.
Empower your strategic planning:
Stay informed with the latest industry insights and market trends to identify new opportunities and drive growth in the aircraft carrier market. To explore more in-depth trends, insights, and forecasts, please refer to our detailed report.
Top 10 Companies Leading the Aircraft Carrier Market
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- BAE Systems PLC
- Fincantieri SpA
- General Dynamics Corporation
- Huntington Ingalls Industries Inc.
- Leonardo SpA
- Navantia
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Thales Group
- The Naval Group
1. The Naval Group
Headquarters: Paris, Île-de-France
Naval Group is a French industrial entity focused on naval defense, design, development, and manufacturing. Its importance in the aircraft carrier market is substantial, as it serves as the designer and manufacturer of France's existing and upcoming aircraft carriers. Naval Group (previously DCNS) is the designer and main contractor for France's sole operational aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle. Ce programme est désigné sous le nom de Porte-avions de nouvelle génération (PA-NG). Naval Group's role in the aircraft carrier sector extends beyond construction; it serves as a strategic ally to the French Navy. They are among the rare companies globally that possess the knowledge and ability to design, construct, and sustain a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, positioning them as a crucial and essential participant in the French defense industrial sector.
2. BAE Systems PLC
Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
BAE Systems is a key participant in the aircraft carrier industry, mainly in the United Kingdom. It does not serve as the only designer or builder but is an essential collaborator in a consortium tasked with executing the UK's aircraft carrier program. BAE Systems was instrumental in the design, construction, and equipping of the UK's two Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales. The company was the primary member of the Aircraft Carrier Alliance, a distinctive partnership that also featured Babcock, Thales, and the UK Ministry of Defence. BAE Systems took the lead in designing, producing, and integrating the advanced mission systems for the carriers. These brains of the vessels integrate tactical, navigation, and command data to facilitate multiple aircraft operations and task force command activities.
3. Leonardo SpA
Headquarters: Rome, Italy
Leonardo SpA, the Italian aerospace, defense, and security firm, plays a significant role in the aircraft carrier industry, not as a primary builder of the vessels, but as an essential provider of cutting-edge systems and technologies. The carrier relies heavily on the company's proficiency in aviation. Although they don’t manufacture large fixed-wing aircraft, they are a significant manufacturer of helicopters for diverse naval functions, including anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASUW), and search and rescue (SAR). Leonardo's aircraft, such as the AW101, play a crucial role in the air wings of various navies. Leonardo plays a key role in the Italian Navy's aircraft carriers, such as the Cavour and the recently introduced Trieste. The firm offers various systems, including naval guns, radars. Helicopters and other electronic devices. In the UK, Leonardo's electronics division plays a vital role in the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carrier initiative, supplying the mission systems that are essential for the carrier's command and combat functions.
4. Northrop Grumman Corporation
Headquarters: Virginia, United States
Northrop Grumman stands out as a top defense contractor and an important participant in the aircraft carrier sector, a vital provider of sophisticated aircraft and essential electronic systems that enhance a carrier's combat capabilities. Northrop Grumman supplies essential parts and systems for the latest U.S. carrier aircraft. This encompasses the central and rear fuselages for the F/A-18 Super Hornet, along with a substantial part of the F-35C Lightning II, a stealthy multipurpose fighter designed for the U.S. The firm serves as the primary contractor for the E2D Advanced Hawkeye, a carrier-operated airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) plane. This plane is frequently referred to as the quarterback of the fleet due to its advanced radar and command systems that offer the carrier strike group extensive surveillance and command and control capabilities, overseeing airspace and directing other aircraft. Northrop Grumman excels in creating command and control systems that allow the carrier to oversee its extensive range of sensors, weapons, and aircraft.
5. Fincantieri SpA
Headquarters: Genova, Italy
Fincantieri S.p.A. is an Italian shipyard that plays a significant role worldwide in the aircraft carrier sector. In contrast to defense firms in the US or UK, which usually belong to a bigger consortium, Fincantieri frequently serves as the main contractor for its country's most sophisticated naval ships, such as aircraft carriers. Its knowledge covers the complete shipbuilding process, including design, construction, outfitting, and systems integration. Fincantieri designed and constructed the Cavour, the flagship of the Italian Navy. The Trieste is the biggest military ship constructed by Italy since World War II. It includes a complete flight deck and a ski-jump for the F-35B, highlighting its capability to operate as an aircraft carrier. Fincantieri outfitted the carrier with a ski-jump ramp to aid in the launch of V/STOL aircraft, including the AV-8B Harrier II and the F-35B Lightning II, the latter of which is now fully incorporated into the Italian Navy's air wing.
Are you ready to discover more about the aircraft carrier market?
The report provides an in-depth analysis of the leading companies operating in the global aircraft carrier market. It includes a comparative assessment based on their product portfolios, business overviews, geographical footprint, strategic initiatives, market segment share, and SWOT analysis. Each company is profiled using a standardized format that includes:
Company Profiles
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- Business Overview
- Company Snapshot
- Products Overview
- Company Market Share Analysis
- Company Coverage Portfolio
- Financial Analysis
- Recent Developments
- Merger and Acquisitions
- SWOT Analysis
- BAE Systems PLC
- Fincantieri SpA
- General Dynamics Corporation
- Huntington Ingalls Industries Inc.
- Leonardo SpA
- Navantia
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Thales Group
- The Naval Group
Conclusion
The Global Aircraft Carrier Market is expected to increase from USD 1.49 Billion in 2024 to USD 2.94 Billion by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 6.37% from 2025 to 2035. Expansion is fueled by governments prioritizing improved naval abilities, boosting defense expenditures, and strategically modernizing naval fleets backed by research and development and collaborations with defense companies. North America is projected to create the most demand, whereas the Asia Pacific region is expected to expand the quickest, owing to investments in carrier improvements by countries such as China and India. The Naval Group (France) is distinguished for creating and building France's nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and holds strategic significance in the French defense industry. BAE Systems, Leonardo SpA, Northrop Grumman, Fincantieri, and other companies uplift the industrial expansion.
About the Spherical Insights & Consulting
Spherical Insights & Consulting is a market research and consulting firm which provides actionable market research study, quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight especially designed for decision makers and aids ROI.
Which is catering to different industry such as financial sectors, industrial sectors, government organizations, universities, non-profits and corporations. The company's mission is to work with businesses to achieve business objectives and maintain strategic improvements.
CONTACT US:
For More Information on Your Target Market, Please Contact Us Below:
Phone: +1 303 800 4326 (the U.S.)
Phone: +91 90289 24100 (APAC)
Email: inquiry@sphericalinsights.com, sales@sphericalinsights.com
Contact Us: https://www.sphericalinsights.com/contact-us
Need help to buy this report?