세계의 군용기 현대화 및 개조 시장 규모는 2024년에 626억 달러에 달했습니다. 향후 IMARC Group은 이 시장이 2033년까지 848억 달러에 달하고, 2025-2033년까지 3.4%의 연평균 복합 성장률(CAGR)을 보일 것으로 예측했습니다. 현재 북미가 시장을 독점하고 있으며 2024년에는 43.0% 이상의 큰 시장 점유율을 차지했습니다. 이 시장을 견인하고 있는 것은 방위 예산 증가, 지정학적 긴장 증가, 노후화된 플릿의 운용 즉응성을 유지할 필요성입니다. 기술의 진보는 첨단 생체 공학, 정밀 무기 및 사이버 보안 솔루션을 통해 비용 효율적인 리노베이션을 가능하게 합니다. 다목적 머신으로의 이동과 변화하는 위협에 대한 생존성 강화가 수요를 더욱 밀어 올리고 있습니다.
세계 시장의 주요 원동력은 지정학적 긴장 증가와 방위예산 증가로 각국이 노후화된 항공기 플릿의 운용 효율을 높이도록 촉구하고 있다는 것입니다. 첨단 바이오닉스, 정밀 무기 및 통신 시스템을 통합할 필요성이 증가함에 따라 시장 성장이 더욱 가속화되고 있습니다. 재료 및 시스템의 기술적 진보로 신규 항공기 조달을 대체하는 비용 효율적인 리노베이션이 가능하며 예산 최적화를 요구하는 정부에 호소하고 있습니다. 게다가, 다목적이며 다재다능한 항공기 플랫폼으로의 이동은 현대화 프로그램을 뒷받침하고 있습니다. 군사 작전에서 사이버 보안의 중요성이 증가함에 따라 안전하고 탄력적인 시스템을 확보하기 위한 리노베이션 수요가 촉진되고 있습니다. 2024년 5월 9일, Accenture Federal Services는 SHARKCAGE 환경에서 미국 해군 해상부대의 사이버 보안 능력 업그레이드를 지원하기 위해 10년간 7억 8,900만 달러의 계약을 획득했습니다. 이러한 시도는 IT-21, ONENet, 해군/해병대 인트라넷에 걸쳐 통합된 하드웨어 및 소프트웨어 솔루션 하에서 해군의 모든 네트워크에서 운영 프로세스를 통합하는 데 기여합니다. 수행되는 작업은 SHARKCAGE 시스템의 시스템 설계 및 아키텍처, 테스트, 생산 전달, 설치, 육상 및 해상 물류 지원입니다. 게다가 이러한 요인은 이 시장에 대한 지속적인 투자를 뒷받침하고 있습니다.
미국은 주요 지역 시장으로 눈에 띄고 있으며, 그 주요 원동력은 항공 우세를 유지하고 변화하는 전투 시나리오에 즉각적으로 대응하는 것에 중점을 둡니다. 미국에서는 항공기의 노후화가 진행되고 있기 때문에 서비스 수명을 연장하고 성능 능력을 높이기 위한 업그레이드가 필요합니다. 이에 따라 인공지능, 첨단 센서 시스템, 전자전 기술의 통합이 중시되고 현대화 수요가 높아지고 있습니다. 니어피어의 위협에 대한 우려 증가와 적대적인 진보에 대항할 필요성은 구식 플랫폼의 리노베이션의 중요성을 더욱 두드러뜨리고 있습니다. 국방 예산과 장기 조달 프로그램에 의한 자금 제공 등 정부의 이니셔티브도 성장을 지지하고 있습니다. 또한, 기술적 이점과 운영 효율성에 대한 헌신은 미국 시장의 현대화 상황에 긍정적인 영향을 미칩니다.
군용기 현대화에서의 기술 진보
군용기 현대화는 점점 기술 주도되고 있습니다. 레거시 기계는 고성능 조종실 시스템, 생체 공학, 레이더, 무기로 무장되어 있습니다. BAE Systems의 Typhoon 전투기에는 차세대 컴퓨터 시스템, 첨단 레이더, 개량형 무기 및 조종석 디스플레이가 추가되었습니다. 이러한 항공기 업그레이드는 서비스 수명을 연장할 뿐만 아니라 경쟁이 심한 환경에서의 성능을 향상시킵니다. 예를 들어, 인공지능과 머신러닝을 이용하는 최첨단 기술은 전투 상황에서 데이터에 대한 실시간 분석과 의사 결정을 강화하는 것을 목표로 합니다. 게다가 기술적인 업데이트를 통해 기존 군용기는 대테러나 제공권 등 임무의 요구에 부응할 수 있게 됩니다. 방위 관련 기업이 지속적으로 혁신을 추진하고 있다는 점을 감안할 때, 군용기의 현대화는 완전히 새로운 군용기를 구입하는 것과 같은 많은 돈을 투자하지 않고 군용기의 경쟁력을 유지하는 기본 전략이라고 생각할 수 있습니다. 또한 한 업계 보고서에 따르면 미국 국방부는 최근 2024 회계 연도 예산으로 8,860억 달러를 승인했으며 2023년부터 3% 증가했습니다. 이러한 요인이 시장을 활성화하고 있습니다.
항공기 업그레이드를 촉진하는 지정학적 요인
세계의 동향이 변화하는 지정학적 시나리오는 군용기 현대화 및 개조 시장에 큰 영향을 주고 있습니다. 많은 국가들이 긴장 증가와 새로운 위협의 출현을 예측하여 전략적 이점을 추구하고 기존 군용기 업그레이드에 기대하고 있습니다. 감시 능력, 전투 물류 및 그 통합이라는 점에서 방어 현대화의 필요성이 높아지고 있기 때문입니다. 이러한 관점에서 방위 관련 기업과 각국 정부와의 협력 관계가 강해지고 있습니다. 예를 들어, 미국 방위 시장에 C-390 화물기의 도입에 관한 Embraer와 Oliver Wyman의 최근 제휴는 Embraer가 취한 전략적 결정의 한 예입니다. 이 전략적 제휴는 방위 대기업 각사가 멀티 롤 능력과 효율성 향상 등 첨단 기능의 통합에 주력하고 있다는 또 다른 큰 동향과 일치하고 있습니다. 또한, 안보 위협에 노출된 국가들은 방어 장비가 새로운 위협에 대응할 수 있도록 업데이트를 선호합니다. 세계의 정세가 불안정한 한, 방위 장비의 업그레이드는 최우선 사항 중 하나입니다. 또한 한 산업 보고서에 따르면 2023년 세계 군사비는 2조 4,430억 달러에 이르러 2022년보다 6.8% 증가했습니다.
항공기 현대화의 경제적 이점
새로운 항공기를 얻는 것보다 현대화하기로 결정할 때 경제적 요인이 가장 중요합니다. 대부분의 국가에서는 군용기의 신규 구매 비용이 너무 비싸기 때문에 현대화가 타개책이 됩니다. 기존 항공기를 업그레이드함으로써 방위군은 항공기의 서비스 수명을 연장하고 운영 능력을 향상시키고 신규 구매와 같은 많은 자본 지출 없이 현대전에서 경쟁력을 유지할 수 있습니다. 이 비용 효과는 특히 방위 예산이 점점 압박받을 때 매우 매력적입니다. 게다가 기술의 진보는 매우 빠른 속도로 이루어지고 있기 때문에 구식 항공기라도 최신의 어비오닉스, 무기, 통신 시스템을 탑재할 수 있어 현재의 운용 기준에 맞출 수 있습니다. 최근 업계 보고에 따르면 국방부(DoD)는 일본 정부와 긴밀하게 협력하여 일본의 각 군사 기지에서 미국 전술기의 위치를 강화하는 전략을 밝혔습니다. 향후 수년까지 실시되는 이 현대화 이니셔티브는 미일동맹 강화, 지역 억지력 향상, 평화와 안정 촉진을 목적으로 한 100억 달러 이상의 능력 투자에 해당합니다.
The global military aircraft modernization and retrofit market size was valued at USD 62.6 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 84.8 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.4% during 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 43.0% in 2024. The market is driven by increasing defense budgets, rising geopolitical tensions, and the need to maintain the operational readiness of aging fleets. Technological advancements enable cost-effective retrofitting with advanced avionics, precision weaponry, and cybersecurity solutions. The shift toward multi-role aircraft and enhanced survivability against changing threats is further propelling demand.
The global market is primarily driven by the increasing geopolitical tensions and defense budgets prompting nations to enhance the operational efficiency of aging aircraft fleets. The growing need to integrate advanced avionics, precision weaponry, and communication systems is further accelerating market growth. Technological advancements in materials and systems have made retrofitting a cost-effective alternative to procuring new aircraft, appealing to governments seeking budget optimization. Additionally, the shift towards multi-role and versatile aircraft platforms is encouraging modernization programs. The rising importance of cybersecurity in military operations is also driving the demand for retrofits to ensure secure and resilient systems. On 9th May 2024, Accenture Federal Services received a 10-year, US 789 Million deal to help upgrade the cybersecurity capability of U.S. Navy maritime forces within the SHARKCAGE environment. Such an endeavor contributes to unifying the process of operating on all Navy networks under integrated hardware and software solutions across IT-21, ONENet, and Navy/Marine Corps Intranet. The tasks it will execute comprise system design and architecture, testing, production delivery, installation, and logistic support ashore and afloat for both SHARKCAGE systems. Moreover, these factors are fueling sustained investment in this market.
The United States stands out as a key regional market, primarily driven by the growing focus on maintaining air superiority and readiness for changing combat scenarios. The United States' aging aircraft fleet necessitates upgrades to extend service life and enhance performance capabilities. Along with this, increasing emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence, advanced sensor systems, and electronic warfare technologies is driving demand for modernization. Rising concerns over near-peer threats and the need to counter adversarial advancements further highlight the importance of retrofitting older platforms. Government initiatives, such as funding through defense budgets and long-term procurement programs, also support growth. Furthermore, the commitment to technological dominance and operational efficiency is positively influencing the modernization landscape in the U.S. market.
Technological Advancements in Military Aircraft Modernization
Modernization in military aircraft is increasingly technology driven. Legacy aircraft are being armed with highly capable cockpit systems, avionics, radar, and weaponry. For example, next-generation computer systems, advanced radar, improved weaponry, besides upgraded cockpit displays, have been added by BAE Systems to its Typhoon fighter jet. Upgrades on these aircraft not only increase the service life but also enhance their performance in high-contested environments. For instance, cutting-edge technologies in the use of Artificial Intelligence and machine learning will aim to enhance real-time analysis and decision-making about data during combat situations. In addition, technological updates will make legacy aircraft meet the demands of the mission, be it counterterrorism or air superiority. Given the efforts of defense contractors to continually innovate, aircraft modernization can be considered a basic strategy that makes military fleets stay competitive without the hefty investment of entirely new purchases. Additionally, according to an industrial report, the US Department of Defense has recently gained approval for an USD 886 Billion budget for fiscal year 2024, marking a 3% rise from 2023. These factors are catalyzing the market.
Geopolitical Factors Driving Aircraft Upgrades
The global geopolitical scenario of shifting trends has a huge place in military aircraft modernization and retrofit markets. Many countries are looking forward to upgrading their existing military aircraft fleets in search of strategic superiority in anticipation of growing tensions and emerging new threats. The requirement is growing due to an improved need for defense modernization in terms of surveillance capabilities, combat logistics, and their integration. In this view, collaboration between defense companies and governments has increased. For instance, the recent alliance between Embraer and Oliver Wyman on introducing its C-390 cargo aircraft into the U.S. defense market is just an example of strategic decisions taken by the company in that direction. This strategic association falls in line with another broad trend wherein defense majors are focusing on the integration of such advanced features as multi-role capability and improved efficiency. Furthermore, countries exposed to rising security threats prioritize updates so that their defense equipment will be able to combat emerging threats. Defense up-gradation will be among the highest priorities as long as the world remains volatile. Moreover, as per an industrial report, worldwide military expenditure reached USD 2443 Billion in 2023, an increase of 6.8% from 2022.
Economic Benefits of Aircraft Modernization
Economic factors are also the most important in deciding to modernize rather than acquire new aircraft. For most countries, the cost of buying new military aircraft is too high, and thus, modernization is the way out. Upgrading existing fleets helps defense forces extend the service life of their aircraft, improve operational capabilities, and remain competitive in modern warfare without incurring the significant capital expenditure of new acquisitions. This cost-effectiveness is quite attractive, especially when the defense budgets are increasingly under pressure. Furthermore, technological advancements are made at a very fast pace, thus even older aircraft can have the latest avionics, weaponry, and communication systems installed in them, hence bringing them up to current operational standards. Recent industrial reports indicate that the Department of Defense (DoD), in tight collaboration with the Government of Japan, revealed a strategy to enhance the positioning of U.S. tactical aircraft at various military bases in Japan. The modernization initiative, set to take place over the coming years, represents more than USD 10 Billion in capability investments aimed at reinforcing the U.S.-Japan Alliance, improving regional deterrence, and promoting peace and stability.
Fixed wing aircraft leads the market with around 74.8% of market share in 2024. Fixed-wing aircraft dominate the global military aircraft modernization and retrofit market, representing the largest segment due to their critical role in defense operations. These aircraft are extensively used for diverse missions, including combat, surveillance, transport, and training, making their modernization essential for maintaining operational effectiveness. The need to upgrade avionics, propulsion systems, and weaponry to keep pace with changing threats drives investments in this segment. Additionally, the adoption of advanced technologies such as stealth capabilities, precision targeting, and enhanced communication systems further supports retrofitting efforts. With many countries focusing on extending the lifespan of their aging fleets while improving performance, fixed-wing aircraft remain a priority for modernization programs, ensuring their relevance in modern military operations.
Navigation systems lead the market with around 20.5% of market share in 2024. Navigation systems represent the largest system type segment in the global military aircraft modernization and retrofit market, driven by the critical need for precision and reliability in military operations. Modern combat scenarios require accurate navigation, even in GPS-denied environments, fueling demand for advanced technologies such as inertial navigation systems (INS), satellite-based augmentation, and integrated avionics. The increasing complexity of missions, including long-range strikes and multi-domain coordination, underscores the importance of upgrading navigation systems to ensure mission success and pilot safety. Governments and defense agencies are heavily investing in cutting-edge navigation solutions to enhance situational awareness and interoperability. These upgrades are pivotal in extending the capabilities of existing fleets, cementing navigation systems as a core focus in modernization initiatives.
In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share of over 43.0%. Some of the factors driving the North America military aircraft modernization and retrofit market include significant growth in the aerospace and energy industries in North America which are considered to be the largest users of military aircraft modernization and retrofits. Additionally, the strong presence of companies in the region is driving innovation and growth in the military aircraft modernization and retrofit market. Moreover, North America has a strong research and development infrastructure, with many universities and research institutions conducting cutting-edge research in materials science and engineering, thereby further driving the military aircraft modernization and retrofit market.
United States Military Aircraft Modernization and Retrofit Market Analysis
In 2024, the US accounted for around 94.10% of the total North America military aircraft modernization and retrofit market. The U.S. military aircraft modernization and retrofit market is driven by the country's need to maintain its technological lead and air superiority. In 2023, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that the U.S. budgeted USD 772 Billion for military aircraft programs, which reflects an upgrade of the aging fleets with state-of-the-art avionics, stealth technology, and next-generation weapon systems. The F-35 modernization program is an example of this trend, with advanced computing and improved lethality ensuring that the country remains competitive. The Next-Generation Air Dominance program is another example of the strategic focus on future readiness by the U.S. Major defense contractors such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing are also key players in these developments, supported by strong government funding and research programs. Export opportunities to allied nations also increase the market's global standing. The U.S. also focuses on sustainability: the retrofitting of existing aircraft for efficiency secures long-term operational capabilities while keeping up with contemporary defense needs and, in turn, cuts procurement costs for new fleets.
Europe Military Aircraft Modernization and Retrofit Market Analysis
Europe's military aircraft modernization market is driven by obligations set by NATO, regional security considerations, and extending fleet capabilities. Modernization projects have remained an important part of defense expenditure; in 2024, NATO reported that defense spending by Europe totaled around USD 380 Billion. Germany has invested heavily in improving its Eurofighter Typhoon. Germany's Budget Committee has in November 2023 okayed the purchase of 15 Eurofighter Electronic Combat EK, which will come with Saab's transmitter location and self-protection systems and Northrop Grumman's Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles (AARGM). Germany will reportedly bring onboard AI-enabled cognitive electronic warfare, with Helsing and Saab Germany taking the lead in upgrading the future SEAD mission. This supports NATO's goals and puts Germany on the forefront of high-tech retrofitting. Joint European defense programs, such as the Tempest program, propel collaborative research and development in defense across the region. Companies such as Airbus and BAE Systems focus on integrating next-generation avionics and weapons systems. Further, EU policies for sustainable development push the need for sustainable retrofits, making them not only operationally efficient but also environmentally friendly.
Asia Pacific Military Aircraft Modernization and Retrofit Market Analysis
Asia Pacific military aircraft modernization is growing rapidly, with defense budgets and geopolitical tensions being the main drivers. China, for instance, has allocated USD 292 Billion to defense spending in 2022, with a considerable amount being spent on upgrading its fleet with advanced radar systems, stealth technologies, and improved weapon payloads, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. In India, it is upgraded through substantial investments in indigenization technology. Defence budget for 2023-24 for Indian Air Force has allocated INR 57,137 crore or USD 7 Billion towards modernization: the highest share in any of the armed forces. Projects such as the "Super Sukhoi" are efforts to upgrade Su-30MKI jets with Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and advanced electronic warfare systems. Indigenous weaponry includes BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and Astra air-to-air missiles, which reinforce the capability of a fleet. Regional efforts go beyond India as Japan, China, and South Korea build their next-generation fighter jet capacity while pursuing collaborative R&D efforts. These modernization efforts reflect the region's focus on self-reliance, operational efficiency, and regional defense competitiveness amid changing security challenges.
Latin America Military Aircraft Modernization and Retrofit Market Analysis
Latin America is witnessing a rise in its military aircraft modernization market, as Brazil leads investments in the air defense arena. With a USD 10.6 billion deal under its Growth Acceleration Program, Brazil is aiming to almost double the size of its Gripen fighter force. The government of Brazil signed a contract with Saab in 2014 for the purchase of 36 F-39 Gripen fighters at a cost of USD 5.04 Billion, and four more were added in 2022. By 2027, Brazil will have 40 Gripen fighters, thus becoming the most modern combat fleet in Latin America. Moreover, Brazil's military expansion includes the development of nine C-390 Millennium planes by Embraer, and a refueling version is under construction. Brazil's focus on leading-edge technologies and border surveillance and defense will be accompanied by public and private financing, which will give it more strength in regional security balances.
Middle East and Africa Military Aircraft Modernization and Retrofit Market Analysis
Military aircraft modernization in the Middle East and Africa is fuelled by intensifying regional security dynamics and the push for fleet efficiency. The defense budget in 2022 in Saudi Arabia has reached an all-time high of USD 75.01 Billion, with the major adjustments made for the modernization of aircraft fleets, including fighters and UAVs, to enhance operational readiness. Avionics retrofit programs, precision-guided munitions, and other fleet life extensions are also being funded in countries including the UAE, which enhances their air forces. African nations such as South Africa are extending the fleets with retrofits as they do not have funds for buying new systems. Denel and other defense contractors also play a crucial role by partnering with global players in defense. Modernization includes integrating AI and advanced surveillance to support diverse operations. The collaborative international programs ensure the transfer of technology and skill development for innovation in response to the unique challenges faced by the region's defense sectors.
The competitive landscape of the military aircraft modernization and retrofit market is marked by active participation from key players focused on technological innovation and strategic collaborations. Major defense contractors and system integrators are investing in research and development to deliver advanced upgrades, such as next-generation avionics, electronic warfare systems, and AI-enabled solutions. Companies are also forming partnerships with governments and militaries to secure long-term modernization contracts. Additionally, market leaders are exploring modular retrofit solutions to reduce downtime and enhance scalability. Enhanced focus on cybersecurity integration and interoperability has become a significant trend among players to meet modern defense requirements. These efforts reflect an industry-wide commitment to sustaining competitive advantage and addressing changing operational challenges in military aviation.