Table of Contents
Underwater Drone Market Overview
Underwater drone, or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), designed by companies are unmanned vehicles designed for exploration and operations beneath the water’s surface.
These drones feature a robust hull to withstand high-pressure environments, propulsion systems for movement, and a control system comprising cameras and sensors for real-time data capture.
They are employed across various sectors, including scientific research for marine studies, environmental monitoring for ecosystem health, military applications for surveillance, industrial inspection for infrastructure maintenance, and search and rescue operations.
Despite their capabilities, challenges such as pressure resistance, battery life, and communication reliability remain critical considerations in their deployment.
Market Drivers
The global underwater drone market is driven by several factors, including the rising demand for marine research and environmental monitoring, advancements in drone technology, and the need for inspecting underwater infrastructure in the oil and gas industry.
Additionally, military and defense applications, search and rescue operations, and increased investment in technology development further fuel market growth.
These drivers collectively enhance the functionality and adoption of underwater drone companies across various sectors.
Market Size
In 2023, the global underwater drone market was valued at USD 4.4 billion and is projected to grow at the highest CAGR of 12.4%, reaching USD 12.2 billion by 2032.
List of Major Companies
These are the top 10 companies operating in the Underwater Drone Market:
- SZ-DJI-Technology
- Parrot
- AeroVironment
- Kongsberg-Gruppen
- Northrop-Grumman
- Thales
- Lockheed-Martin
- Elbit-Systems
- Israel-Aerospace
- General-Dynamics
SZ-DJI-Technology
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 2006 |
| Headquarter | Shenzhen, Guangdong, China |
| Key Management | Tao Wang (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 8.3 Billion (2021) |
| Headcount | ~ 14,000 (2023) |
| Website | https://www.dji.com/ |
About SZ DJI Technology
SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd., a leading figure in the drone industry, has significantly advanced its underwater drone companies’ capabilities and multirotor systems for complex inspections.
Their strategic efforts include launching the Matrice 300 RTK platform, which enhances precision in airborne inspections and data collection, and the Mavic 3 Pro, a high-performance drone with advanced imaging and flight technologies.
These innovations highlight DJI’s commitment to expanding its technological edge and market presence, positioning the company to capitalize on growth opportunities in various industrial applications and consolidate its leadership in the competitive inspection drones market.
Geographical Presence
SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shenzhen, China, is a global leader in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The company has established a robust international presence with operations across major regions. In North America, DJI maintains offices and retail outlets in the United States and Canada.
In Europe, it has a strong footprint in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Italy. In the Asia-Pacific region, the company operates in Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
DJI is also present in the Middle East, with operations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. It also has a growing presence in South America, particularly in Brazil.
Additionally, DJI serves the African market through its operations in South Africa. This extensive global network reflects DJI’s strategic approach to supporting diverse markets and maintaining a leadership position in the UAV industry.
Recent Developments
- In December 2023, SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd. launched the Ronin 4D-8K.
- In April 2023, DJI launched the Mavic 3 Pro, a flagship drone featuring a triple camera system with varying focal lengths, marking a new era in aerial content capture.
Parrot
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 2006 |
| Headquarter | Paris, France |
| Key Management | Henri Seydoux (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 70.3 M (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 542 (2022) |
| Website | http://www.parrot.com/ |
About Parrot
Parrot SA, a key player in the commercial drone market, has broadened its expertise to include underwater drone companies through strategic product development and acquisitions.
Known for its ANAFI series, Parrot has enhanced features such as cybersecurity, autonomous photogrammetry, and connectivity for specialized applications.
Recently, the company has shifted its focus from consumer products to enterprise solutions for defense, security, and agriculture.
This strategic pivot is evident in Parrot’s financial performance, which reflects a move towards high-value professional drones amid a general market revenue contraction.
Geographical Presence
Parrot SA, headquartered in Paris, France, has a widespread geographical presence across multiple continents.
In Europe, the company operates notably in France, Germany, the UK, and Spain. North America’s significant markets include the United States and Canada.
South America features key markets such as Brazil and Argentina. In Asia-Pacific, Parrot focuses on China, Japan, and Australia.
The Middle East and Africa are also important, with strategic operations in the UAE and South Africa. Parrot’s global strategy involves enhancing distribution networks and local partnerships to address regional market needs and drive growth.
Recent Developments
- In June 2022, Parrot and ARASTELLE upgraded the ANAFI USA microdrone with tethered flight capabilities.
- In May 2022, Parrot and UAVIA teamed up to make 4G autonomous drones more accessible by integrating the Parrot Anafi Ai with UAVIA’s Robotics Platform.
AeroVironment
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1971 |
| Headquarter | Arlington, Virginia, United States |
| Key Management | Wahid Nawabi (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 716.7 Million (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 1,403 (2023) |
| Website | http://avinc.com/ |
About AeroVironment
AeroVironment, Inc. has recently expanded its capabilities through key acquisitions. The company acquired Tomahawk Robotics, integrating advanced AI-enabled robotic control systems into its unmanned platforms, enhancing operational synergy and application range.
Additionally, the acquisition of Arcturus UAV, known for its versatile unmanned systems like the VTOL JUMP-20 and T-20, strengthens AeroVironment’s position in the tactical UAV market.
These moves reflect AeroVironment’s strategic growth approach, supported by recent financial successes, including a substantial $990 million contract with the U.S. Army, highlighting its commitment to innovation and excellence in unmanned systems technology.
Geographical Presence
AeroVironment, Inc., headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, has a substantial geographical presence both domestically and internationally. In the U.S., the company operates multiple facilities in California and the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, bolstering its R&D and defense operations.
Internationally, AeroVironment is expanding its footprint in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, supported by strategic partnerships and distribution agreements.
This global presence enables the company to address a broad range of market needs and strengthen its position in the unmanned aircraft systems and electric vehicle charging sectors.
Recent Development
- In July 2024, AeroVironment obtained U.S. Department of State approval for a possible foreign military sale of Switchblade 300 loitering munitions to Taiwan.
- In September 2023, AeroVironment finalized its acquisition of Tomahawk Robotics, a specialist in AI-driven robotic control and communications systems.
Kongsberg-Gruppen
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1814 |
| Headquarter | Kongsberg, Norway |
| Key Management | Geir Håøy (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 3.8 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 13,898 (2022) |
| Website | https://www.kongsberg.com/ |
About Kongsberg Gruppen
Kongsberg Gruppen is strengthening its position in the underwater drone companies/sector through its Kongsberg Discovery division, focusing on the HUGIN Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV).
Recent enhancements include upgrades for long-duration missions, improved redundancy, and better autonomous management and situational awareness.
These AUVs, designed for both commercial and defense use, reflect a shift towards defense applications due to their increased reliability.
Kongsberg Discovery recently demonstrated the HUGIN AUV’s capabilities to the U.S. Navy’s Defense Innovation Unit, aligning with a contract to support the U.S.
Navy’s Large Diameter Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (LDUUV) programs. This underscores Kongsberg’s significant role in advancing underwater drone technology.
Geographical Presence
Kongsberg Gruppen, headquartered in Oslo, Norway, maintains a significant global presence across various regions.
In Europe, the company operates in the UK, Germany, Sweden, and France, focusing on defense and aerospace technologies.
In North America, Kongsberg is active in the United States and Canada, specializing in the defense, maritime, and aerospace sectors.
Its presence extends to South America, with operations in Brazil; Asia-Pacific, including Australia, Singapore, and India; the Middle East, with engagements in the UAE and Saudi Arabia; and Africa, where it operates in South Africa.
This extensive geographical reach supports Kongsberg’s commitment to delivering advanced technology solutions worldwide.
Recent Development
- In September 2024, Kongsberg Gruppen divested its steering gear and rudder business to Norvestor, a Nordic private equity fund.
- In August 2024, Kongsberg partnered with Smart Ship Hub to improve vessel and voyage performance through advanced machinery monitoring, predictive diagnostics, and overall health management.
Northrop-Grumman
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1994 |
| Headquarter | Virginia, United States |
| Key Management | Kathy J. Warden (President) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 39.3 B (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 101,000 (2023) |
| Website | http://northropgrumman.com/ |
About Northrop Grumman
Northrop Grumman Corporation has made significant strides in the underwater drone companies/sector with the development of the Manta Ray Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (UUV).
This initiative, part of a broader DARPA project, aims to advance autonomous underwater capabilities. The Manta Ray UUV is designed for extended deep-sea missions without human intervention, leveraging energy-efficient technologies and advanced autonomy to navigate challenging oceanic environments.
Recent developments have seen the successful assembly and at-sea testing of the Manta Ray prototype, validating its operational capabilities and endurance in underwater conditions.
These tests are crucial in demonstrating the UUV’s potential for long-duration missions, enhancing Northrop Grumman’s portfolio in autonomous underwater systems.
Geographical Presence
Northrop Grumman Corporation operates globally and has a significant presence across multiple regions. In North America, major facilities are located in California, Virginia, Maryland, and Alabama, focusing on defense, aerospace, and space technologies.
The company also has notable operations in Canada. In Europe, it maintains key sites in the United Kingdom, Germany, and France, supporting defense and aerospace projects.
In the Asia-Pacific region, Northrop Grumman is active in Australia, Japan, and South Korea, contributing to defense and aerospace initiatives.
The Middle East’s presence includes the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, while the company operates in Brazil in Latin America. Additionally, Northrop Grumman engages in defense projects in India, underscoring its global reach and role in international defense and aerospace markets.
Recent Developments
- In July 2024, Northrop Grumman and Global Military Products secured a contract from the Army Contracting Command for specialized munitions and weapons systems.
- In April 2024, Northrop Grumman developed the Manta Ray uncrewed underwater vehicle in collaboration with DARPA for long-duration missions and deep-ocean payload delivery.
Thales
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 2000 |
| Headquarter | Paris, France |
| Key Management | Patrice Caine (Chairman & CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 19.9 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 81,060 (2022) |
| Website | http://thalesgroup.com/ |
About Thales
Thales S.A. has recently advanced its position in the underwater drone companies/sector through various initiatives and partnerships aimed at improving undersea warfare.
Key developments include the creation and testing of remotely operated underwater vehicles for naval mine neutralization, demonstrated under the Franco-British Maritime Mine Countermeasures program.
Additionally, Thales has teamed up with Saildrone to equip unmanned surface vessels with advanced towed arrays for improved maritime detection and classification.
The company also leads the SEANICE consortium, supported by the European Commission, to develop state-of-the-art antisubmarine warfare systems, enhancing Europe’s defense against underwater threats.
Thales’s development of the Expeditionary Portable Operations Centre (e-POC) further integrates unmanned underwater vehicles into naval operations, boosting flexibility and response capabilities for minesweeping missions.
These efforts highlight Thales’s commitment to advancing undersea warfare technology within broader defense strategies.
Geographical Presence
Thales SA operates globally and has a strong presence across key regions. Headquartered in Paris, France, the company has substantial operations throughout Europe, including Germany, the UK, and Italy.
In North America, Thales maintains significant facilities in the United States and Canada, focusing on aerospace, defense, and security.
In the Asia-Pacific region, Thales is active in Australia, China, and India, catering to defense and transportation needs.
Latin America, with notable activities in Brazil and Argentina, supports defense and infrastructure projects. In the Middle East, Thales engages in defense and security in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, while in Africa, it addresses defense and transportation needs in South Africa.
This extensive geographical footprint enables Thales to deliver tailored solutions and respond effectively to regional and global challenges.
Recent Developments
- In March 2024, Thales unveiled the Expeditionary Portable Operations Centre (e-POC) to enhance the French Navy’s mine countermeasures with advanced unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) for improved minesweeping.
- In September 2021, the European Commission chose a consortium led by Thales to protect its navies from advanced underwater threats such as submarines, unmanned systems, and naval mines.
Lockheed-Martin
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1995 |
| Headquarter | Bethesda, Maryland, United States |
| Key Management | James D. Taiclet (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 67.6 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 122,000 (2023) |
| Website | http://www.lockheedmartin.com/ |
About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin Corporation is advancing its capabilities in the underwater drone companies/sector through the development of the Manta Ray Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (UUV), which is part of a broader initiative funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).
The Manta Ray program, which received a $12.3 million contract from DARPA, is focused on creating a new class of autonomous underwater drones capable of long-duration, long-range missions that are payload-capable.
These UUVs are designed to operate independently of manned vessels and ports, which could greatly enhance the U.S. Navy’s operational flexibility and capacity in undersea operations.
The Manta Ray UUV is a significant part of Lockheed Martin’s ongoing research and development efforts to innovate within the naval domain and expand their offerings in unmanned maritime technology.
Geographical Presence
Lockheed Martin Corporation, headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, boasts a significant global presence with operations across multiple continents.
In North America, it has major facilities in Texas, California, Florida, and Georgia, with a strong presence in Canada.
In Europe, the company operates in the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, focusing on defense and aerospace systems.
The Asia-Pacific region includes substantial operations in Australia, Japan, and South Korea. In the Middle East, Lockheed Martin engages in key defense projects in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Latin American activities include operations in Brazil and Chile, while in Africa, the company has a presence in South Africa.
This extensive geographical footprint underscores Lockheed Martin’s role as a leading player in the defense and aerospace sectors globally.
Recent Developments
- In August 2024, Lockheed Martin and Mission Systems won an $18.9 million contract from the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, for Apache Attack Helicopter support. The contract was awarded after one bid was submitted online.
- In February 2020, DARPA awarded Lockheed Martin a $12.3 million contract for the first phase of the Manta Ray program.
Elbit-Systems
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1966 |
| Headquarter | Haifa, Israel |
| Key Management | Bezhalel Machlis (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 6.0 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 18,984 (2022) |
| Website | https://elbitsystems.com/ |
About Elbit Systems
Elbit Systems has been actively enhancing its capabilities in the underwater drone companies/sector, specifically through upgrades to its Seagull unmanned surface vessel (USV).
Recently, Elbit has upgraded the Seagull USV by incorporating drones and advanced loitering weapon systems, significantly boosting its intelligence, surveillance, and attack capabilities.
These enhancements are designed to make the Seagull more flexible in operation, extending its endurance at sea and expanding its role from intelligence gathering to active engagement in sea-sea and sea-ground combat scenarios.
This move aligns with growing global naval trends towards versatile, multi-role unmanned systems capable of extended operational periods without direct human intervention.
Geographical Presence
Elbit Systems Ltd., an Israeli defense electronics company, has a significant global presence. In North America, it operates through Elbit Systems of America in the U.S. and maintains partnerships in Canada.
In Europe, it has established operations and collaborations in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. The company is active in the Asia-Pacific region with a focus on India, Australia, and Singapore.
In the Middle East, Elbit Systems is headquartered in Israel. In Latin America, it has a presence in Brazil and Chile, and in Africa, it operates in South Africa.
This extensive geographical footprint allows Elbit Systems to deliver tailored defense and security solutions worldwide.
Recent Development
- In September 2024, Elbit Systems upgraded its Seagull USVs with drones and loitering weapons.
- In February 2024, Elbit Systems introduced the newest variant of its Hermes unmanned aerial systems.
Israel-Aerospace
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1953 |
| Headquarter | Lod, Israel |
| Key Management | Philip Moyer (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 4.9 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 15,000 (2022) |
| Website | https://www.iai.co.il/ |
About Israel Aerospace
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has made significant advances in the underwater drone companies/sector with the development of its BlueWhale unmanned submarine.
This innovative platform, designed for covert intelligence-gathering operations, integrates advanced sensor systems and is capable of long-duration autonomous missions.
Recently, IAI and ATLAS ELEKTRONIK unveiled a joint development, enhancing BlueWhale’s capabilities for antisubmarine warfare.
This collaboration includes sophisticated towed passive sonar systems, which improve the drone’s ability to operate in deep water environments traditionally used by submarines to evade detection.
These developments highlight IAI’s commitment to expanding its underwater technology offerings, marking a significant step in the evolution of autonomous underwater vehicles.
Geographical Presence
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel, operates extensively across multiple continents.
Domestically, it has key facilities in Haifa and Be’er Sheva, focusing on advanced technologies like UAVs and missile systems.
Internationally, IAI has a significant presence in North America through subsidiaries like ELTA North America and collaborates with Canadian defense firms.
In Europe, it partners with defense manufacturers in the UK, Germany, and France. In the Asia-Pacific region, IAI engages in defense contracts and joint ventures in India and Australia.
Additionally, it maintains strategic relationships in Latin America, notably in Brazil and Argentina, and participates in regional defense projects in the Middle East.
This global presence underscores IAI’s strategic approach to expanding its aerospace and defense capabilities worldwide.
Recent Developments
- In April 2024, IAI and Aerotor Unmanned Systems signed an MOU to develop new products and strengthen their commercial partnership jointly.
- In May 2023, IAI created the BlueWhale, a new unmanned submarine for covert intelligence-gathering.
General-Dynamics
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1893 |
| Headquarter | Reston, Virginia, United States |
| Key Management | Phebe Novakovic (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 42.3 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 111,600 (2023) |
| Website | http://gd.com/ |
About General Dynamics
General Dynamics Corporation has significantly expanded its capabilities in the underwater drone companies/sector through strategic acquisitions and the development of advanced technologies.
A key development was the acquisition of Bluefin Robotics, a leader in unmanned undersea vehicles (UUVs), which now operates under General Dynamics Mission Systems.
This acquisition has enhanced General Dynamics’ portfolio in autonomous underwater vehicles, particularly in areas such as counter-mine operations, surveillance, and oceanographic research.
Additionally, General Dynamics has been actively involved in the development of the Knifefish UUV, a project aimed at boosting the U.S. Navy’s capabilities in mine countermeasures.
The Knifefish UUV is designed to detect, classify, and identify buried mines and other underwater objects, representing a significant advancement in naval technology.
Geographical Presence
General Dynamics Corporation, headquartered in Reston, Virginia, is a leading aerospace and defense company with a robust global footprint.
In North America, it operates extensively in the U.S. and Canada, focusing on defense, aerospace, and IT solutions. Its European presence includes significant facilities in the UK, Germany, and Spain, where it specializes in military vehicles and defense systems.
In the Middle East, General Dynamics is active in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, providing advanced defense technologies.
The company’s Asia-Pacific operations include Australia and India, while in South America, it engages in defense projects in Brazil.
This widespread geographical presence underscores General Dynamics’ strategic commitment to delivering advanced technology and systems worldwide.
Recent Developments
- In August 2024, General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin partnered to manufacture solid rocket motors.
- In September 2020, General Dynamics partnered with airspace security leader Dedrone to integrate Dedrone’s advanced drone detection and defeat technology into its global network.
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