Delray Beach – October 15, 2026 -- The autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) market will grow from USD 3.67 billion in 2026 to USD 10.94 billion by 2031, a compound annual growth rate of 24.4%, according to MarketsandMarkets. Unit volumes are forecast to rise from 1,123 in 2026 to 2,771 by 2031.
Large AUVs deployed beyond 1,000 meters lead segment growth at 25.1% CAGR
Large AUVs (>1,000 meters) are expected to record the highest CAGR of 25.1% and to dominate the market by type. Demand comes from deep-sea exploration, subsea cable route mapping and complex military missions requiring long-duration operations beyond 1,000 meters.
Large platforms offer greater payload capacity, advanced sonar systems and extended endurance. That makes them suited to mine countermeasures, environmental monitoring and geophysical surveys.
Military and defense applications are set to dominate through 2031
Military and defense is expected to be the dominant application segment during the forecast period. The report also cites defense surveillance, offshore infrastructure inspection and deep-sea research as the main adoption drivers. Advances in energy systems, sensing technologies and AI-enabled navigation are improving mission capability.
Propulsion and mobility emerges as the fastest-growing system segment
Rising mission complexity and the need for better underwater maneuverability are driving investment in hybrid thrusters, low-noise electric drives and efficient buoyancy systems. These technologies support precise navigation, improve energy efficiency and extend mission endurance for defense and commercial platforms.
Europe holds 38.0% share in 2026 while Asia Pacific posts the fastest growth
The European market accounts for a 38.0% share in 2026. Asia Pacific is expected to record the highest regional CAGR, supported by expanding naval and coast guard capabilities, offshore energy development and rising demand for underwater surveillance and maritime security.
China, Japan, South Korea, India and Australia are investing in subsea intelligence, mine countermeasures and deep-ocean mapping. Offshore wind development, subsea infrastructure expansion and government-funded marine research programs add further demand. Research institutions, universities and hydrographic organizations are also increasing AUV adoption for oceanographic and climate-related studies.
Kongsberg, Saab, BAE Systems, Exail and Saipem named among key suppliers
Kongsberg (Norway), Saab AB (Sweden), BAE Systems (UK), Exail Technologies (France) and Saipem S.p.A. (Italy) are cited among the key players. The report says they maintain distribution networks across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East.