Global Torpedo Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Weight;
Heavyweight Torpedoes, and Lightweight Torpedoes.By Launch Platform;
Sea-launched - Surface-launched and Underwater-launched, and Air-launched.By Propulsion;
Electric Propulsion, and Conventional Propulsion.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Torpedo Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Torpedo Market was valued at USD 1,089.25 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 1,482.32 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.5%.
The increasing tensions in maritime border regions and the expansion of marine trade have heightened the demand for advanced naval defense systems, including torpedoes. Torpedoes play a crucial role in naval warfare by serving as formidable weapons for attacking enemy vessels and submarines. These self-propelled underwater weapons can be deployed from various platforms such as airplanes, ships, missiles, or submarines. Typically consisting of propulsion systems, explosives, and guidance systems, torpedoes are designed to autonomously navigate towards their target and inflict damage upon impact. With the rise in marine border conflicts and the need to safeguard maritime trade routes, there has been a significant surge in the adoption of anti-submarine and weapon-integrated naval vessels, which is expected to drive the growth of the torpedo market in the coming years.
Defense organizations worldwide are increasingly prioritizing the development of advanced weapon solutions to strengthen their naval capabilities, leading to higher budgets allocated for research and development activities. For instance, the Defense Ministry of India has notably increased its defense budget, with a particular focus on enhancing the country's maritime defense capabilities. In the fiscal year 2022-23, the Indian Navy's capital budget witnessed a substantial increase of 44.53%, indicating a significant boost in investment for naval modernization efforts. The increased funding is intended to facilitate the acquisition of new naval platforms, establish operational and strategic infrastructure, address critical capability gaps, and build a future-ready maritime force. This substantial investment underscores the growing recognition of the importance of naval defense in ensuring national security and protecting maritime interests.
Advancements in torpedo technology are driving innovation and market growth, with a focus on enhancing performance, precision, and versatility. Manufacturers are developing next-generation torpedoes equipped with advanced guidance and targeting systems, improved propulsion mechanisms, and enhanced warhead capabilities. These advancements enable torpedoes to effectively engage a wide range of maritime targets with increased accuracy and lethality. Additionally, efforts are underway to enhance the stealth and survivability of torpedoes, making them more resilient against countermeasures and detection by enemy forces. The continuous evolution of torpedo technology is expected to further bolster market growth and enable navies to maintain a competitive edge in modern naval warfare scenarios.
The growing emphasis on maritime security and the need to counter emerging threats such as submarine warfare and maritime terrorism are driving the demand for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, where torpedoes play a pivotal role. Navies worldwide are investing in ASW capabilities to detect, track, and neutralize hostile submarines, thereby safeguarding their maritime borders and interests. Torpedoes equipped with advanced ASW capabilities, including long-range detection systems and sophisticated guidance algorithms, are increasingly sought after to bolster naval defense capabilities against submarine threats. As navies continue to prioritize ASW capabilities, the demand for torpedoes is expected to witness sustained growth, further propelling market expansion in the foreseeable future.
Traditional naval applications, torpedoes are also finding increasing utility in maritime law enforcement and coastal defense operations. Coast guards and maritime security agencies are leveraging torpedoes for surveillance, interdiction, and deterrence missions to combat illegal activities such as smuggling, piracy, and illicit trafficking. The versatility and effectiveness of torpedoes in diverse maritime environments make them valuable assets for enhancing maritime security and safeguarding coastal regions. As maritime threats continue to evolve, the demand for torpedoes for non-military applications is expected to increase, presenting new growth opportunities for manufacturers in the torpedo market.
Global Torpedo Market Recent Developments
-
July 2022 The ambitious technical modernization plan (TMP) 2021–35, unveiled in 2019, will be updated, according to the Polish Armed Forces (PAF). This plan includes about 2,000 modernization programs.
-
September 2022 The Russian Poseidon Nuclear Torpedo is a nuclear weapon designed to annihilate sizable port cities that play an important role in commerce and industry. Poseidon is a huge torpedo on the ocean floor that might be impossible to stop. Additionally, it substitutes a nuclear payload for a conventional high-explosive warhead.
Segment Analysis
The global torpedo market is segmented by weight into heavyweight and lightweight torpedoes. Heavyweight torpedoes are primarily used by naval submarines and are designed for deep-water operations, offering superior range and payload capacity. Lightweight torpedoes, on the other hand, are favored for anti-submarine warfare due to their agility and compatibility with smaller platforms such as helicopters and surface ships. The increasing demand for advanced torpedoes in modern naval warfare has led to significant technological advancements, improving the performance and operational efficiency of both categories.
Based on the launch platform, the market is categorized into sea-launched and air-launched torpedoes. Sea-launched torpedoes are further divided into surface-launched and underwater-launched systems, highlighting their versatile deployment across surface vessels and submarines. Air-launched torpedoes, deployed from aircraft like helicopters and maritime patrol planes, are gaining traction due to their rapid response capabilities and extended reach. The choice of platform often depends on mission requirements, with navies worldwide investing in multi-platform systems to enhance operational flexibility.
In terms of propulsion, torpedoes are classified into electric and conventional propulsion systems. Electric propulsion systems, favored for their quieter operation and lower environmental impact, are becoming increasingly popular in modern naval strategies. Conventional propulsion systems, relying on thermal engines, continue to be widely used due to their established reliability and cost-effectiveness. Geographically, North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America represent key markets, with varying levels of investment in naval modernization. North America leads in technological innovation, while Asia Pacific is witnessing rapid growth driven by escalating maritime disputes and regional defense initiatives.
Global Torpedo Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Torpedo Market has been segmented by Weight, Launch Platform, Propulsion and Geography.
Global Torpedo Market, Segmentation by Weight
The Global Torpedo Market has been segmented by Weight into Heavyweight Torpedoes and Lightweight Torpedoes.
The dominance of the heavyweight torpedo segment in the market can be attributed to its significant role in enhancing the combat capabilities of naval forces. Heavyweight torpedoes are particularly valued for their effectiveness in engaging large and heavily armored enemy vessels, submarines, and surface ships. The superiority of heavyweight torpedoes lies in their enhanced range, speed, and payload capacity, which enable them to deliver devastating blows to high-value maritime targets. Moreover, the rising procurement of heavyweight torpedoes by various countries across the Asia Pacific region is expected to further bolster market growth. As naval forces prioritize the modernization of their submarine fleets and seek advanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities, the demand for heavyweight torpedoes is projected to surge, driving market expansion in the coming years.
One notable development in the heavyweight torpedo segment is the introduction of new and advanced torpedo systems by leading defense manufacturers and research organizations. For instance, Bharat Dynamics Limited, based in India, in collaboration with the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), has developed a state-of-the-art heavyweight anti-submarine torpedo for the Indian Navy. This indigenous development signifies India's commitment to enhancing its naval defense capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign imports. Similarly, the Naval Group, headquartered in Paris, announced the delivery of the first batch of its advanced heavyweight torpedo, known as the F21, to both the French Navy and the Brazilian Navy in March 2020. The F21 torpedo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and features optimized performance characteristics, making it a formidable asset for naval forces operating in diverse maritime environments. Such advancements in heavyweight torpedo technology contribute to the continuous evolution and modernization of naval warfare capabilities, driving market growth and ensuring the readiness of naval forces to counter emerging threats effectively.
Global Torpedo Market, Segmentation by Launch Platform
The Global Torpedo Market has been segmented by Launch Platform into Sea-launched and Air-launched.
The dominance of the surface-launched platform segment in the torpedo market is largely driven by the increasing procurement of surface naval vessels worldwide. Surface naval ships are equipped with torpedo launch tubes, enabling them to deploy torpedoes effectively in maritime operations. For instance, the Mark 32 ocean-propelled Triple Torpedo Tube (TTT) launcher installed on destroyers and cruisers enhances their anti-submarine capabilities by deploying acoustic homing torpedoes. These launchers utilize pneumatic discharge mechanisms to propel torpedoes away from the vessel into the sea, allowing for swift and targeted engagement of underwater threats.
Additionally, the surface-launched platform segment benefits from the versatility and maneuverability of surface vessels, which can quickly respond to emerging threats and engage hostile targets. The strategic positioning of surface ships enables them to cover vast maritime areas and effectively patrol critical sea lanes. As navies continue to modernize their fleets and enhance their maritime security capabilities, the demand for surface-launched torpedoes is expected to remain robust, driving the growth of this segment in the torpedo market.
Global Torpedo Market, Segmentation by Propulsion
The Global Torpedo Market has been segmented by Propulsion into Electric Propulsion, and Conventional Propulsion.
The global torpedo market has been categorized based on propulsion into two primary segments: electric propulsion and conventional propulsion. These segments reflect the technological advancements and operational preferences within the naval defense industry. Electric propulsion systems are gaining traction due to their quiet operation, which enhances stealth capabilities, making them suitable for modern submarine warfare. They are powered by batteries or other energy storage systems, offering reduced acoustic signatures that are crucial for covert operations.
Conventional propulsion systems, on the other hand, rely on traditional fuel-based engines, offering higher speeds and longer operational ranges. These systems are typically used in scenarios where speed and extended range are prioritized over stealth. Despite advancements in electric propulsion, conventional systems remain a dominant choice for various naval forces due to their reliability and ability to operate in diverse environmental conditions.
Both propulsion types play a significant role in shaping the dynamics of the torpedo market, catering to the varied needs of military forces worldwide. Electric propulsion is expected to witness significant growth owing to its alignment with emerging naval warfare strategies emphasizing stealth and sustainability. However, conventional propulsion continues to hold a substantial share due to its proven efficiency and adaptability in large-scale operations. The dual presence of these technologies highlights the ongoing evolution and diversification of torpedo capabilities in the defense sector.
Global Torpedo Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Torpedo Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Torpedo Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
The Asia Pacific region is poised to experience the fastest growth in the torpedo market during the forecast period, driven by efforts to strengthen naval capabilities, particularly in countries like India and China. Rising tensions and disputes among neighboring nations have spurred investments in advanced naval assets, including ships and submarines equipped with state-of-the-art torpedo systems. In February 2021, Indian shipyards announced discussions with Naval Group for potential collaborations on future surface ship and submarine programs, highlighting the region's commitment to enhancing maritime security and operational capabilities through the procurement of advanced torpedoes. Additionally, the dynamic geopolitical landscape in the Asia Pacific region underscores the importance of robust naval forces equipped with advanced weapon systems, further fueling the demand for torpedoes and driving market growth in the region.
The rest of the world is expected to witness a significant growth trajectory in the torpedo market, propelled by increasing maritime border conflicts and anti-piracy operations in strategic sea routes such as the Persian Gulf. Countries like Brazil have embarked on the development of new submarines equipped with advanced torpedo systems, reflecting the global trend towards enhancing naval capabilities to address evolving security challenges in maritime domains. The growing emphasis on maritime security and the need to safeguard vital sea lanes against threats such as piracy and maritime terrorism are driving investments in modern naval assets, including torpedoes, across regions outside of North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. This trend is expected to contribute to robust growth in the global torpedo market, with opportunities for manufacturers and defense contractors to capitalize on emerging market demands and strategic procurement initiatives worldwide.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Torpedo Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
Drivers:
- Increasing Naval Modernization Programs
- Escalating Maritime Security Concerns
-
Geopolitical Tensions and Naval Build-up- The escalation of geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts globally has fueled a significant uptick in naval build-up efforts and the acquisition of advanced naval assets, among which torpedoes play a pivotal role. Nations across the world are intensifying their naval capabilities to assert control over territorial waters, safeguard maritime interests, and address emerging security threats. This heightened militarization of maritime domains and the increased deployment of naval forces in strategic areas are driving the demand for torpedoes as indispensable elements of naval arsenals.
As countries bolster their naval capabilities to navigate evolving geopolitical dynamics and safeguard their maritime territories, the demand for advanced torpedoes is expected to surge. Torpedo manufacturers and suppliers are presented with lucrative opportunities to cater to this escalating demand from defense customers seeking to enhance their naval capabilities. By offering innovative torpedo solutions equipped with cutting-edge technologies, manufacturers can capitalize on the growing market demand and contribute to bolstering naval defenses worldwide.
Restraints:
- Regulatory Compliance and Export Controls
- Operational and Safety Concerns
-
Geopolitical Tensions and Arms Control Initiatives- Geopolitical tensions have long been a driving force behind the demand for torpedo systems, especially in regions marked by maritime disputes and strategic rivalries. Heightened security concerns often prompt military organizations to bolster their naval capabilities, including the acquisition of advanced torpedo systems, to deter potential adversaries and safeguard territorial interests. In such scenarios, torpedoes play a critical role in naval defense strategies aimed at maintaining maritime superiority and projecting power in contested waters.
Diplomatic efforts aimed at arms control and disarmament initiatives can lead to shifts in defense spending priorities and procurement decisions. Reductions in defense budgets or limitations on torpedo acquisitions may occur as part of broader disarmament agreements or confidence-building measures aimed at promoting regional stability and mitigating security risks. These diplomatic endeavors could impact market demand for torpedo systems, particularly if military organizations prioritize non-proliferation efforts over the acquisition of offensive capabilities.
Geopolitical shifts and realignments of alliances can influence the distribution of torpedo procurement contracts among suppliers and manufacturers. Changes in geopolitical dynamics may lead to the emergence of new markets or the redirection of procurement preferences, creating uncertainties for market players and affecting the competitive landscape. Adapting to evolving geopolitical conditions and aligning product offerings with shifting defense priorities becomes crucial for torpedo manufacturers seeking to navigate geopolitical uncertainties and sustain growth in the market
Opportunities:
- Modernization of Naval Forces
- Emergence of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs)
-
Rising Maritime Security Concerns- The escalating maritime security threats, ranging from piracy to territorial disputes, have compelled governments and navies worldwide to bolster their defense capabilities, particularly in the realm of anti-submarine warfare (ASW). In response to these challenges, there is a growing emphasis on the procurement of advanced torpedo systems designed to safeguard vital sea lanes and maritime assets. Manufacturers operating in the torpedo market have a significant opportunity to address these emerging security concerns by offering innovative solutions tailored to the evolving needs of naval forces.
By leveraging advanced sensors, guidance systems, and countermeasure capabilities, manufacturers can develop comprehensive torpedo solutions capable of effectively detecting and neutralizing underwater threats. These advanced torpedoes play a crucial role in enhancing ASW capabilities, enabling navies to maintain maritime security and protect strategic interests. As governments prioritize investments in maritime defense, manufacturers that can provide cutting-edge torpedo systems equipped with the latest technologies stand to benefit from lucrative contract opportunities and long-term partnerships with naval organizations.
By demonstrating their expertise in addressing emerging maritime security challenges, manufacturers can establish themselves as trusted suppliers and industry leaders in the global torpedo market. Through continuous innovation and collaboration with defense stakeholders, manufacturers can solidify their position as key contributors to maritime security efforts worldwide, ensuring the protection of vital sea lanes and maritime assets against evolving threats.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Torpedo Market include:
- BAE Systems
- Atlas Elektronik GmbH
- Raytheon Company
- Saab AB
- Leonardo SpA
- Bharat Dynamics Limited
- Rosoboronexport
- ASELSAN AS
- Naval Group
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- Honeywell International Inc
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Sechan Electronics Inc
- DRDO
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Weight
- Market Snapshot, By Launch Platform
- Market Snapshot, By Propulsion
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Torpedo Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Increasing Naval Modernization Programs
- Escalating Maritime Security Concerns
- Geopolitical Tensions and Naval Build-up:
- Restraints
- Regulatory Compliance and Export Controls
- Operational and Safety Concerns
- Geopolitical Tensions and Arms Control Initiatives
- Opportunities
- Modernization of Naval Forces
- Emergence of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs)
- Rising Maritime Security Concerns
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Torpedo Market, By Weight, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Heavyweight Torpedoes
- Lightweight Torpedoes
- Global Torpedo Market, By Launch Platform, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Sea-launched
- Surface-launched
- Underwater-launched
- Air-launched
- Sea-launched
- Global Torpedo Market, By Propulsion, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Electric Propulsion
- Conventional Propulsion
- Global Torpedo Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Torpedo Market, By Weight, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- BAE Systems
- Atlas Elektronik GmbH
- Raytheon Company
- Saab AB
- Leonardo SpA
- Bharat Dynamics Limited
- Rosoboronexport
- ASELSAN AS
- Naval Group
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- Honeywell International Inc
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Sechan Electronics Inc
- DRDO
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market