According to a new report published by Introspective Market Research, titled, Sonobuoy Market by Type, Technology, and Installation, The Global Sonobuoy Market Size Was Valued at USD 430.2 Billion in 2023 and is Projected to Reach USD 777.7 Billion by 2032, Growing at a CAGR of 6.8%.The sonobuoy market encompasses the manufacturing and deployment of sonar buoys used primarily for underwater detection and surveillance. These devices are pivotal in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations, providing naval forces with advanced acoustic intelligence capabilities. Compared to traditional underwater detection methods, sonobuoys offer enhanced range, accuracy, and real-time data transmission, crucial for modern maritime security and defense strategies.
Sonobuoys are extensively used in major defense sectors globally, aiding in naval surveillance, maritime domain awareness, and environmental monitoring. Besides military use, there is a growing application in commercial sectors, including offshore oil and gas exploration and marine research, driven by the need for cleaner, more efficient underwater sensing technologies.
The Sonobuoy Market is segmented into Type, Technology, and Installation. By Type, the market is categorized into Active, Passive, and Special Purpose. By Technology, the market includes Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording, Bathythermo Buoy, Directional Command Activated, Data Link Communications, and others. By Installation, the market is categorized into Spring, Pneumatic, Free-Fall, and Cartridge.
One of the key growth drivers for the Sonobuoy Market is the increasing defense expenditure and modernization of naval forces globally. Many countries are upgrading their undersea warfare capabilities in response to growing geopolitical tensions and the need for enhanced maritime security. This has led to increased procurement and deployment of advanced sonobuoy systems equipped with sophisticated detection and communication technologies, fueling market growth.
A significant opportunity for the Sonobuoy Market lies in expanding commercial applications such as environmental monitoring, oceanographic research, and offshore infrastructure inspection. With rising environmental concerns and the expansion of offshore energy projects, the demand for precise underwater sensing is expected to grow. This diversification beyond traditional military uses offers a new revenue stream for market players and encourages technological innovation.
Sonobuoy Market, Segmentation
The Sonobuoy Market is segmented on the basis of Type, Technology, and Installation.
Type
The Active type segment accounted for the highest market share in 2023. Active sonobuoys emit sound waves and listen for echoes, providing accurate detection and tracking of submarines and other underwater objects. Their enhanced operational range and effectiveness in complex underwater environments make them vital for modern naval operations.
Technology
The Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording segment held the largest market share in 2023. This technology allows precise analysis of underwater acoustic signals, enabling effective identification and classification of marine objects. Its advanced signal processing capabilities make it a preferred choice for sophisticated naval and commercial applications.
Some of The Leading/Active Market Players Are-
- Boeing (USA)
- General Dynamics (USA)
- Ultra Electronics (UK)
- Kongsberg Gruppen (Norway)
- Northrop Grumman (USA)
- SAAB AB (Sweden)
- Harris Corporation (USA)
- Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Japan)
- Textron (USA)
- Elbit Systems (Israel)
- L3Harris Technologies (USA)
- Lockheed Martin (USA)
- Thales Group (France)
- Raytheon Technologies (USA)
- Leonardo S.p.A. (Italy)
- Other active players.
Key Industry Developments
- In October 2025, Northrop Grumman announced a new contract for delivering next-generation active sonobuoy systems to the US Navy.This contract signifies a major boost in sonobuoy capabilities with improved detection range and communication technologies designed to enhance anti-submarine warfare efficiency and maritime situational awareness.
- In August 2025, Kongsberg Gruppen launched an advanced directional frequency analysis sonobuoy designed for extended underwater monitoring.The new sonobuoy integrates cutting-edge acoustic sensing with real-time data link capabilities, aimed at strengthening naval surveillance and expanding commercial monitoring applications in offshore energy sectors.
Key Findings of the Study
- Active sonobuoys dominate market share due to advanced detection capabilities.
- North America leads the market with significant defense procurement spending.
- Increasing defense budgets and geopolitical tensions drive market growth.
- Emergence of environmental and commercial monitoring applications offer new opportunities.
