Market Trends of Hovercraft Industry
The Military Segment Holds the Highest Share in the Market
The navies and other marine authorities utilize large hovercrafts to transport troops, military supplies, and tanks. Due to their ease of operation over land and sea mines, sand, mud, ice, snow, rocks, weeds, logs, debris, and rapids, they can be used for offensive operations, humanitarian aid, logistics, and security. Military hovercrafts have advanced GPS and radar capabilities to provide accurate positioning and situational awareness in challenging environments. The powerful propulsion system also includes ducted fans and air-cushion technology that increase the thrust and maneuverability, allowing rapid transit across various terrains.
For instance, in March 2024, the Indian Coast Guard established the dedicated Hovercraft Maintenance Unit (HMU). The facility will improve hovercraft's operational efficiency and legibility in the region. Strategic infrastructure development is key to the region's military hovercraft market's growth. Also, in August 2023, Textron Systems secured a substantial contract valued at USD 241 million from the United States Department of Defense (DoD). The agreement, announced by the United States DoD, is directed toward procuring LCAC 100 Class material and non-recurring activities to facilitate the construction of five Ship to Shore Connector (SSC) Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) 100 Class vessels.
Armed forces in countries like China, the United States, Russia, India, and Iran plan to induct newer-generation military hovercraft over the next decade. New procurement plans and the development of new hovercrafts to replace the older models will drive segmental growth during the forecast period.
Europe is Expected to Experience the Highest Market Growth During the Forecast Period
In recent years, European countries have registered a growing demand for hovercraft for commercial and military end users. Opportunities arising from an improved standard of living and the effects of climate change are driving demand for hovercraft. The demand for hovercraft is also due to enhanced transportation capabilities and a rise in the adoption of hovercraft by law enforcement and border patrol agencies across the region.
In June 2023, Estonia announced plans for a massive investment of around USD 14.5 billion over the next decade, which involves modernizing its armed forces and military procurement. All these investments are driven by the heightening threat perception following Russia's actions in Ukraine.
European manufacturers are investing in R&D to develop more efficient and eco-friendly hovercraft. For instance, Griffon Hoverwork Ltd has been working on new models with improved performance capabilities, which are expected to cater to commercial and military demand. Furthermore, the Russian Ministry lists high-priority transport goals in the Arctic region that include the all-season delivery of supplies to ice-resistant platforms on the continental shelf, primarily gas-drilling rigs in the Gulf of Ob, freight deliveries via various-size rivers and coastal sea regions, and unloading freight from supply ships anchored at roadsteads.
