Chemicals Industry Today

Defense Aircraft Materials Market to Reach USD 104.3 Billion by 2035, Fueled by Innovation and Strategic Investments

The defense aircraft materials market is projected to grow from USD 46.1 billion in 2025 to USD 104.3 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 8.5%. Composite Materials will dominate with a 48.6% market share, while combat aircraft will lead the application segment with a 52.4% share.
Published 29 September 2025

The global Defense Aircraft Materials Market is entering a transformative decade marked by robust growth, technological advancements, and expanding participation from both established leaders and emerging innovators. Valued at USD 46.1 billion in 2025, the market is projected to nearly double to USD 104.3 billion by 2035, registering a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% over the forecast period.

This growth reflects the increasing reliance on lightweight, durable, and high-performance materials that enhance fuel efficiency, agility, and resilience of modern defense aircraft.

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Driving Forces Behind Market Expansion

The defense aircraft materials market is growing in response to three key global trends:

  1. Modernization of Air Forces – Governments worldwide are upgrading existing fleets and investing in next-generation combat programs, pushing demand for advanced materials that improve aircraft endurance and survivability.
  2. Performance Optimization – Defense contractors seek materials with superior strength-to-weight ratios, fatigue resistance, and corrosion protection, enabling advanced design and longer operational lifespans.
  3. Strategic Defense Investments – Heightened geopolitical tensions and growing defense budgets across North America, Asia-Pacific, and Europe are accelerating adoption of technologically superior materials.

As a result, both long-standing manufacturers like Hexcel Corporation, Toray Industries, and Allegheny Technologies and new entrants exploring composite innovations are actively expanding their production footprints and forming research collaborations.

Market Segmentation and Leading Segments

By Type – Composite Materials Take the Lead

Composite materials are expected to dominate the market with a 48.6% share in 2025, driven by their unmatched strength-to-weight ratio. Their adoption is bolstered by superior resistance to corrosion, fatigue, and environmental stressors.

These materials are increasingly used in fuselage panels, wings, and control surfaces, enabling greater maneuverability and payload capacity. Advanced coatings and laminates are further enhancing durability in demanding operational environments, reinforcing composites’ position as the material of choice for future defense aircraft.

By Application – Combat Aircraft Drive Growth

The Combat Aircraft segment is projected to hold 52.4% of market revenue in 2025, reflecting heavy investments in fighter jets, multi-role aircraft, and tactical platforms. Lightweight alloys and composites are critical for enabling longer range, higher payloads, and improved agility—key attributes in modern warfare.

Integration of advanced avionics and electronic warfare systems has created additional demand for structurally reliable materials, cementing combat aircraft as the leading application area within the industry.

Regional Outlook of the Defense Aircraft Materials Market

North America – Innovation Hub:

North America, led by the United States, is expected to remain the largest regional market, supported by significant government funding, programs by DARPA, and partnerships between aerospace OEMs and materials manufacturers. The U.S. market alone is projected to grow from USD 16.6 billion in 2025 to USD 33.3 billion by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 7.2%.

Asia-Pacific – Fastest Growth:

Asia-Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing market, with China and India leading the way. China is forecast to post the highest CAGR of 11.5%, followed by India at 10.6%, fueled by escalating defense budgets and rapid military modernization programs.

Europe – Steady Expansion:

Europe continues to see steady adoption of advanced aircraft materials, with Germany (CAGR 9.8%) dominating regional revenue. The region’s focus on sustainable, reliable, and high-performance materials supports its long-term growth trajectory.

Middle East & Africa – Strategic Investmen:

Countries in the Middle East are accelerating investments in advanced defense aircraft programs, with an emphasis on durability and multi-role functionality. This creates growth opportunities for both global players and regional suppliers.

A Market Poised for Transformation

The Defense Aircraft Materials Market is not only expanding in size but also evolving in scope. The shift toward modular, multi-role aircraft is intensifying the demand for versatile materials that can integrate advanced weaponry, avionics, and stealth technologies without compromising structural integrity.

As geopolitical challenges intensify, the role of material science in defense strategy has never been more critical. Manufacturers—both established leaders and rising innovators—are positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of defense aviation.

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Competitive Landscape

The market is characterized by a mix of established leaders and ambitious new players seeking to expand their technological and geographical presence. Long-term supply agreements between manufacturers and aircraft OEMs provide stability, while partnerships with government agencies foster innovation.

Leading Players Include:

  • Hexcel Corporation
  • Toray Industries, Inc.
  • Allegheny Technologies Incorporated (ATI)
  • AMG Advanced Metallurgical Group N.V.
  • Arconic Corp.
  • Constellium SE
  • Henkel Singapore Pte. Ltd.
  • Solvay SA
  • DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
  • Teijin Limited

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