Larry Dickerson, Forecast International's senior unmanned vehicles analyst, informed that the global demand for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) is rapidly growing.
Since 2001, unparalleled growth was observed in the UAS market. Over the next decade, the current projected value is estimated to be $70.9 B.
Despite the slump in UAS procurement by the U.S., there is still expansion of sales in Asia. The U.S. will continue to invest $11.6 B for research programs and $13.7 B on UAS procurement through 2021.
Among the predicted $70.9 B market for UAS reconnaissance systems over the consequent decade, $28.7 B will be allocated for R&D, while $39.2 B for production. The UAS services contracts will culminate in $2 B to $3 B. Although there is increase in UAS purchase in other countries, this market is being driven by the U.S.
R&D expenditure in U.S. will reach $11.6 B over this period, with overall value amounting to 40% globally. Asia will invest $7.1 B for research, and $8 B for the same by Europe. Around 41 % of this market's production value or $16.5 B will be spanned by U.S.-based companies. However, it is expected to increase.
There is growing investment on unmanned aircraft in Europe and Asia. Europe will capitalize $5.7 B on unmanned aircraft systems. The government in Europe focuses on proprietary unmanned aircraft programs, while its research and procurement initiatives are limited by insufficient funding. In spite of the launch of new European-designed systems, Europe will continue to capitalize on non-European systems. Asia will invest $14.3 B on unmanned aircraft, with 60% investment by China. Based on local firms, Beijing will procure few foreign systems to fulfill the underlying demands.