Aerospace Industry Today

Sonobuoy Launcher Market Size, Share, Trends, and Forecast by 2031

Sonobuoy launcher market analysis covering growth drivers, segmentation, regional outlook, key players, and forecast through 2031
Published 20 January 2026

New York, US – The sonobuoy launcher market is evolving rapidly, bolstering naval defenses with advanced systems for underwater threat detection and maritime security.

Market Overview

Sonobuoy launchers deploy sonar buoys from aircraft and ships, playing a vital role in anti-submarine warfare by pinpointing submarines amid rising underwater threats. These systems, available in pneumatic or cartridge designs, offer automated precision, making patrols safer and more effective for crews facing complex ocean environments. As navies modernize fleets, demand surges for launchers compatible with maritime patrol aircraft and unmanned platforms, enhancing real-time surveillance without risking personnel.

Market Size, Share, Trends, Analysis, and Forecast by 2031

The sonobuoy launcher market size is projected to reach US$ 374.07 million by 2031 from US$ 253.93 million in 2023. The market is expected to register a CAGR of 5.0% during 2023–2031. Integration of sonobuoy launchers with combat management system is likely to remain a key trend in the market. The sonobuoy launcher market shows steady expansion, driven by anti-submarine warfare modernization and oceanographic needs, projecting continued growth through 2031.

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Market Share Leaders: Multiple rotary launch systems dominate for high-volume deployments; active sonobuoys lead compatibility; anti-submarine warfare claims the largest application share.

Market Segmentation Analysis

By Type

Multiple Rotary Launch System

Multiple rotary launch systems are designed to store and deploy multiple sonobuoys in rapid succession. These systems use a rotating mechanism that enables continuous or sequential ejection without manual reloading.

  • Key advantages: High deployment rate, operational efficiency, reduced mission turnaround time
  • Common applications: Long-duration maritime patrol missions, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and wide-area surveillance

Single Launch System

Single launch systems are designed to deploy one sonobuoy at a time, making them suitable for platforms with limited space or lower operational requirements.

  • Key advantages: Simpler design, lower cost, ease of integration
  • Common applications: Tactical missions, training operations, and small-scale ASW tasks

By Ejection Platform

Aircraft

Aircraft-based sonobuoy launchers are widely used for airborne anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance. These systems are integrated into fixed-wing aircraft and rotary-wing platforms to enable rapid and flexible sonobuoy deployment over large ocean areas.

  • Key aircraft types: Maritime patrol aircraft, ASW helicopters, and surveillance aircraft
  • Advantages: Wide-area coverage, fast response, high operational flexibility

Ships

Ship-based sonobuoy launcher systems are deployed on naval surface vessels to enhance close-range underwater detection and coastal surveillance capabilities.

  • Key vessel types: Frigates, destroyers, corvettes, and patrol boats
  • Advantages: Persistent monitoring, integration with onboard sonar systems

Global and Regional Analysis

North America: Leads the sonobuoy launcher market, powered by naval anti-submarine warfare upgrades and UAV integrations for flexible submarine hunting.

Asia Pacific: Fastest expansion, with regional threat detection tech, indigenous developments, and naval buildups amid maritime tensions.

Europe: Strong from modernizing patrol aircraft; collaborations yield next-gen launchers for manned/unmanned ops.

Middle East & Africa: Focuses on route security against piracy; aid drives adoption for surveillance.

Latin America: Builds maritime awareness to guard coastlines, aided by fleet modernizations despite budgets.

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 Top Key Players

Alkan:- Alkan is a defense systems manufacturer specializing in aircraft weapon release and ejection systems, including sonobuoy launchers.

Geospectrum Technologies Inc.: - Geospectrum Technologies focuses on underwater acoustics, sonar systems, and sonobuoy-related technologies.

L3Harris Technologies Inc. : - L3Harris Technologies is a major global defense contractor with a strong presence in sonobuoys, ASW systems, and airborne mission equipment.

Aurora Flight Sciences : - Aurora Flight Sciences, a subsidiary of Boeing, specializes in advanced aerospace platforms and autonomous systems.

JSK Naval Support Inc. : - JSK Naval Support Inc. provides naval equipment, logistics, and support solutions, including systems related to sonobuoy handling and deployment.

Marshall Aerospace and Defiance Group : - Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group is a leading provider of aircraft modification, integration, and sustainment services.

Strategic Outlook

Sonobuoy launchers bridge human ingenuity with tech precision, safeguarding seas as threats deepen. Governments prioritize these for sovereignty, from vast exclusive economic zones to strategic chokepoints. Future innovations promise seamless UAV-ship-aircraft synergy, redefining naval power through smarter vigilance.

Update Industry News

Major naval deals secure sonobuoy production, indirectly boosting launcher integrations. Orders for sonobuoy launch carousel assemblies continue to support key suppliers. Support for surface ship torpedo defense systems ties directly to launcher technology advancements. Ongoing R&D focuses on UAV-compatible launchers, with AI optimizing deployments for dynamic anti-submarine missions.

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