North America Military Helicopters Market Size
Study Period | 2017 - 2030 | |
Market Size (2024) | USD 2.65 Billion | |
Market Size (2030) | USD 3.59 Billion | |
Largest Share by Body Type | Transport Helicopter | |
CAGR (2024 - 2030) | 5.18 % | |
Largest Share by Country | United States | |
Major Players |
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*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
North America Military Helicopters Market Analysis
The North America Military Helicopters Market size is estimated at 2.65 billion USD in 2024, and is expected to reach 3.59 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.18% during the forecast period (2024-2030).
2.7 B
Market Size in 2024 (USD)
3.6 B
Market Size in 2030 (USD)
794
Total Deliveries in the Historic Period (2017-2023)
501
Total Deliveries during the Forecast Period (2024-2030)
Largest Market by Body Type
56.55 %
value share, Transport Helicopter, 2023
The ability to carry heavy payloads in short, unprepared, and semi-prepared airstrips is driving the country to procure transport helicopter.
Fastest-growing Market by Body Type
7.38 %
Projected CAGR, Transport Helicopter, 2024-2030
The ability to carry troops and equipment to various strategic locations is driving the country to procure transport helicopters.
Largest Market by Country
97.17 %
value share, United States, 2023
The United States' focus on procuring more advanced helicopters to maintain its military supremacy supports the growth of the region's military helicopter market.
Leading Market Player
53.39 %
market share, Lockheed Martin Corporation, 2022
Lockheed Martin provides a wide range of high-performance combat and ISR rotorcraft, and its vast geographical presence enables it to be a leading player.
Second Leading Market Player
33.08 %
market share, Textron Inc., 2022
Several types of military rotorcraft being offered by the company and its broad geographical presence are responsible for its growth, making it the second-largest market player.
Geopolitical challenges and rising defense budgets are the driving factors of the rotorcraft market
- The increase in defense spending across North America has significantly impacted the military helicopter market. Governments are allocating substantial resources to modernize their military capabilities, including upgrading helicopter fleets. As the nature of warfare evolves, defense spending is being directed toward acquiring cutting-edge helicopters equipped with the latest avionics, sensors, and weaponry. The defense expenditure of North America surged around 1% from 2021 to USD 904 billion in 2022.
- Additionally, the United States, Canada, and Mexico face numerous geopolitical challenges and perform counter-terrorism operations. Hence, these countries seek to enhance their aerial capabilities to respond effectively to these threats, which has contributed to the demand for military helicopters. As of 2022, in terms of the active fleet, the US accounted for 92% of the total rotorcraft in North America, while Canada, Mexico, and the Rest of North America accounted for 2%, 3%, and 3%, respectively. Some of the most procured helicopter models are 824 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters and over 513 CH-47D/F/MH-47G, 383 H145 (UH-72A/B), 2,312 S-70/EH/HH/MH/UH-60, 289 MV-22, and 489 S-70/MH-60R/S.
- To improve border security and buy cutting-edge weaponry and technologies, several countries in the region have increased their military budget, which may aid the future expansion of military rotorcraft procurement. For instance, in 2023, the United States planned to procure 119 rotorcraft, including CH-47 Chinook, UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-53K, AH-1Z, and MH-139A. The Mexican government ordered 11 helicopters (four H225M and seven UH-60M) for its Mexican Air Force. As a result of these advancements, the countries in the region are expected to take delivery of 588 rotorcraft.
Rising defense budgets and geopolitical conflicts are driving the demand for helicopter procurement in the region
- Countries in North America, particularly the United States, have been among the first to develop advanced helicopters to counter geopolitical conflicts. Nearly 94% of the military expenditures in the Americas region come from North America. In 2022, the region's defense expenditure totaled USD 912 billion. North America's military expenditures were largely accounted for by the United States (96%), followed by Canada and Mexico, with 3% and 1%, respectively.
- With increased military budgets, various countries in the region may facilitate the expansion of military rotorcraft procurement in the future. In 2023, the United States plans to purchase 119 rotorcraft, including the CH-47 Chinook, the UH-60 Black Hawk, the CH-53K, and the AH-1Z. The Mexican government ordered 11 helicopters (four H225M and seven UH-60M) for the Mexican Air Force.
- As of 2022, in terms of active fleet size, North America held approximately 29% of the total rotorcraft worldwide. Out of the entire region, the United States stood first, operating 92% of rotorcraft, of which 38% are multi-mission helicopters, 58% are transport helicopters, and 4% are other helicopters. The country was followed by Mexico, which operates 3% of fixed-wing aircraft, of which 56% are multi-mission helicopters, 39% are transport helicopters, and 31% are other helicopters. Canada followed Mexico, operating 2% of fixed-wing aircraft, of which 64% are multi-mission helicopters, 21% are transport helicopters, and 16% are other helicopters.
- With the ongoing procurements and modernization plans, the United States may continue to lead the market and generate significant demand for new rotorcraft. During the forecast period, a total of 588 aircraft are expected to be procured by the country.
North America Military Helicopters Market Trends
Geopolitical threats are the main reason behind the increase in defense spending in the region
- In 2022, the US accounted for 39% of global defense spending military spending increased by USD 877 billion in 2022, or 0.7%. The total includes military assistance to Ukraine, estimated at USD 19.9 billion. In 2022, the US released the Department of the Air Force budget, which outlined that for FY 2023, the budget request is approximately USD 194.0 billion, a USD 20.2 billion or 11.7% increase from the FY 2022 request. This funding includes aircraft R&D, aircraft acquisition, initial spares, and aircraft support equipment. The funding for FY 2023 includes the purchase of 61 F-35, 24 F-15EX, 79 logistics and support aircraft, 119 rotary wing aircraft, and 12 UAV/UAS.
- Over the past few years, Canada also has demonstrated a commitment to increase defense spending to address growing security concerns and modernize its military equipment. The country recognizes the need to adapt to emerging threats, such as cyber warfare and asymmetric challenges, while maintaining conventional defense capabilities. Canada spent USD 26.9 billion on its military in 2022, which was 3.0 % higher than the previous year. Out of the total government spending, the country has allocated 1.2% of its share to the military. As per the Budget 2022, the announcement government will offer more than USD 8 billion for new funding to Canada's national defense over the next five years.
- In Mexico, the use of military forces to combat criminal activity remains the primary driver of military spending in the sub-region. Mexico's defense spending in 2022 was USD 8.5 billion, a decrease of 9.7% compared to 2021. Spending on the National Guard increased by 35% in 2021, accounting for 16% of total military spending. The country's defense expenditure was 0.6% of its GDP in 2022.
Fleet modernization and the rising need for modernization of aircraft are the driving factors in North America
- As of December 2022, North America had an active fleet of 13,676 aircraft and helicopters. Competition in technology is accelerating between China and the United States as both countries are increasingly focused on the R&D of emerging technologies to prepare for future warfare. The United States has the biggest fleet of military aircraft in the region and globally, with a total of 13,300 operational fleets. A considerable chunk of this fleet is made up of combat helicopters (42%) and combat planes (21%). In contrast, training planes and helicopters account for 20%, while transport planes make up only 7%. Meanwhile, tankers and special mission aircraft each represent 5% of the fleet.
- By the end of 2022, Canada had an active fleet of about 356 aircraft and rotorcraft. Of these total 356 aircraft, the most procured fleet is training aircraft/helicopters, accounting for 132, followed by 120 combat helicopters, 63 combat aircraft, 28 transport aircraft, 27 special mission aircraft, and 6 tanker aircraft. Canada has selected F-35s to replace its CF-18 fighter jets, which are scheduled to retire by 2032. If the F-35 deal is finalized, Canada plans to start procuring the new jets in 2025. Mexico had an active fleet of 468 aircraft as of December 2022. Of these total 468 aircraft, the most procured fleet is training aircraft, and helicopters accounted for 203 aircraft, followed by 157 combat helicopters, 46 transport aircraft, 25 special mission aircraft, and 36 combat aircraft. As transnational criminal organizations and drug cartels largely occupy the country, the country utilizes military helicopters to fight drug traffickers.
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- Improving economic stability can aid in the growth of North America
North America Military Helicopters Industry Overview
The North America Military Helicopters Market is fairly consolidated, with the top five companies occupying 135.76%. The major players in this market are Airbus SE, Leonardo S.p.A, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Textron Inc. and The Boeing Company (sorted alphabetically).
North America Military Helicopters Market Leaders
Airbus SE
Leonardo S.p.A
Lockheed Martin Corporation
Textron Inc.
The Boeing Company
Other important companies include MD Helicopters LLC..
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in alphabetical order.
North America Military Helicopters Market News
- May 2023: The US State Department approved a potential sale of CH-47 Chinook helicopters, engines, and equipment worth USD 8.5 billion to Germany.
- March 2023: Boeing has been awarded a contract by the US government to manufacture 184 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters for the US military and international customers. The US government announced USD 1.95 million, indicating that the helicopter will be delivered to the US military and overseas buyers - specifically Australia and Egypt - as a part of the paramilitary process to the Foreign Service (FMS) from the US government. Contract completion is expected by the end of 2027.
- December 2022: The US Army was awarded a contract to supply next-generation helicopters to Textron Inc.'s Bell unit. The Army`s "Future Vertical Lift" competition aimed at finding a replacement as the Army looks to retire more than 2,000 medium-class UH-60 Black Hawk utility helicopters.
Free with this Report
We provide a complimentary and exhaustive set of data points on global and regional metrics that present the fundamental structure of the industry. Presented in the form of 45+ free charts, the section covers data on commercial aircraft deliveries by manufacturer, backlogs of commercial aircraft, active military aircraft fleet by type of aircraft, overall business jets and helicopters fleet by manufacturer and also classified by type of ownership.
North America Military Helicopters Market Report - Table of Contents
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS
2. REPORT OFFERS
3. INTRODUCTION
- 3.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
- 3.2 Scope of the Study
- 3.3 Research Methodology
4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS
- 4.1 Gross Domestic Product
- 4.2 Active Fleet Data
- 4.3 Defense Spending
- 4.4 Regulatory Framework
- 4.5 Value Chain Analysis
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes market size in Value in USD and Volume, Forecasts up to 2030 and analysis of growth prospects)
-
5.1 Body Type
- 5.1.1 Multi-Mission Helicopter
- 5.1.2 Transport Helicopter
- 5.1.3 Others
-
5.2 Country
- 5.2.1 Canada
- 5.2.2 Mexico
- 5.2.3 United States
- 5.2.4 Rest of North America
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Key Strategic Moves
- 6.2 Market Share Analysis
- 6.3 Company Landscape
-
6.4 Company Profiles
- 6.4.1 Airbus SE
- 6.4.2 Leonardo S.p.A
- 6.4.3 Lockheed Martin Corporation
- 6.4.4 MD Helicopters LLC.
- 6.4.5 Textron Inc.
- 6.4.6 The Boeing Company
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR AVIATION CEOS
8. APPENDIX
-
8.1 Global Overview
- 8.1.1 Overview
- 8.1.2 Porter’s Five Forces Framework
- 8.1.3 Global Value Chain Analysis
- 8.1.4 Market Dynamics (DROs)
- 8.2 Sources & References
- 8.3 List of Tables & Figures
- 8.4 Primary Insights
- 8.5 Data Pack
- 8.6 Glossary of Terms
List of Tables & Figures
- Figure 1:
- ACTIVE MILITARY AIRCRAFT FLEET BY COUNTRY, NUMBER OF AIRCRAFT, VOLUME, NORTH AMERICA, 2016 - 2030
- Figure 2:
- DEFENSE SPENDING, USD, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 3:
- NUMBER OF NEW AIRCRAFT DELIVERIES, VOLUME, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 4:
- NUMBER OF NEW AIRCRAFT DELIVERIES, USD, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 5:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES BY BODY TYPE, VOLUME, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 6:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES BY BODY TYPE, USD, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 7:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES BY BODY TYPE, VOLUME %, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 8:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES BY BODY TYPE, VALUE %, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 9:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY MULTI-MISSION HELICOPTER, UNITS, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 10:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY MULTI-MISSION HELICOPTER, USD, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 11:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY BODY TYPE, USD, %, 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 12:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY TRANSPORT HELICOPTER, UNITS, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 13:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY TRANSPORT HELICOPTER, USD, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 14:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY BODY TYPE, USD, %, 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 15:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY OTHERS, UNITS, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 16:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY OTHERS, USD, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 17:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY BODY TYPE, USD, %, 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 18:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES BY COUNTRY, VOLUME, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 19:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES BY COUNTRY, USD, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 20:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES BY COUNTRY, VOLUME %, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 21:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES BY COUNTRY, VALUE %, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 22:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY CANADA, UNITS, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 23:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY CANADA, USD, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 24:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES SHARE, VALUE, %, CANADA, 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 25:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY MEXICO, UNITS, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 26:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY MEXICO, USD, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 27:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES SHARE, VALUE, %, MEXICO, 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 28:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY UNITED STATES, UNITS, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 29:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY UNITED STATES, USD, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 30:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES SHARE, VALUE, %, UNITED STATES, 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 31:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY REST OF NORTH AMERICA, UNITS, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 32:
- NORTH AMERICA MILITARY HELICOPTERS MARKET, BY REST OF NORTH AMERICA, USD, 2017 - 2030
- Figure 33:
- ROTORCRAFT DELIVERIES SHARE, VALUE, %, REST OF NORTH AMERICA, 2023 VS 2030
- Figure 34:
- MOST ACTIVE COMPANIES, NUMBER OF STRATEGIC MOVES, NORTH AMERICA, 2018-2023
- Figure 35:
- MOST ADOPTED STRATEGIES, COUNT, NORTH AMERICA, 2018 - 2023
- Figure 36:
- MAJOR PLAYERS REVENUE SHARE (%), NORTH AMERICA, 2023
North America Military Helicopters Industry Segmentation
Multi-Mission Helicopter, Transport Helicopter, Others are covered as segments by Body Type. Canada, Mexico, United States are covered as segments by Country.
- The increase in defense spending across North America has significantly impacted the military helicopter market. Governments are allocating substantial resources to modernize their military capabilities, including upgrading helicopter fleets. As the nature of warfare evolves, defense spending is being directed toward acquiring cutting-edge helicopters equipped with the latest avionics, sensors, and weaponry. The defense expenditure of North America surged around 1% from 2021 to USD 904 billion in 2022.
- Additionally, the United States, Canada, and Mexico face numerous geopolitical challenges and perform counter-terrorism operations. Hence, these countries seek to enhance their aerial capabilities to respond effectively to these threats, which has contributed to the demand for military helicopters. As of 2022, in terms of the active fleet, the US accounted for 92% of the total rotorcraft in North America, while Canada, Mexico, and the Rest of North America accounted for 2%, 3%, and 3%, respectively. Some of the most procured helicopter models are 824 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters and over 513 CH-47D/F/MH-47G, 383 H145 (UH-72A/B), 2,312 S-70/EH/HH/MH/UH-60, 289 MV-22, and 489 S-70/MH-60R/S.
- To improve border security and buy cutting-edge weaponry and technologies, several countries in the region have increased their military budget, which may aid the future expansion of military rotorcraft procurement. For instance, in 2023, the United States planned to procure 119 rotorcraft, including CH-47 Chinook, UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-53K, AH-1Z, and MH-139A. The Mexican government ordered 11 helicopters (four H225M and seven UH-60M) for its Mexican Air Force. As a result of these advancements, the countries in the region are expected to take delivery of 588 rotorcraft.
Body Type | Multi-Mission Helicopter |
Transport Helicopter | |
Others | |
Country | Canada |
Mexico | |
United States | |
Rest of North America |
Market Definition
- Aircraft Type - All the military rotorcraft which are used for various applications are included in this study.
- Sub-Aircraft Type - For this study, all the military helicopters based on their application are considered.
- Body Type - Multi-Mission Helicopters, Transport Helicopters, Training Helicopters and various other rotorcraft are considered in this study.
Keyword | Definition |
---|---|
IATA | IATA stands for the International Air Transport Association, a trade organization composed of airlines around the world that has an influence over the commercial aspects of flight. |
ICAO | ICAO stands for International Civil Aviation Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations that supports aviation and navigation around the globe. |
Air Operator Certificate (AOC) | A certificate granted by a National Aviation Authority permitting the conduct of commercial flying activities. |
Certificate Of Airworthiness (CoA) | A Certificate Of Airworthiness (CoA) is issued for an aircraft by the civil aviation authority in the state in which the aircraft is registered. |
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) | Gross domestic product (GDP) is a monetary measure of the market value of all the final goods and services produced in a specific time period by countries. |
RPK (Revenue Passenger Kilometres) | The RPK of an airline is the sum of the products obtained by multiplying the number of revenue passengers carried on each flight stage by the stage distance - it is the total number of kilometers traveled by all revenue passengers. |
Load Factor | The load factor is a metric used in the airline industry that measures the percentage of available seating capacity that has been filled with passengers. |
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) | An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) traditionally is defined as a company whose goods are used as components in the products of another company, which then sells the finished item to users. |
International Transportation Safety Association (ITSA) | International Transportation Safety Association (ITSA) is an international network of heads of independent safety investigation authorities (SIA). |
Available Seats Kilometre (ASK) | This metric is calculated by multiplying Available Seats (AS) in one flight, defined above, multiplied by the distance flown. |
Gross Weight | The fully-loaded weight of an aircraft, also known as “takeoff weight,” which includes the combined weight of passengers, cargo, and fuel. |
Airworthiness | The ability of an aircraft, or other airborne equipment or system, to operate in flight and on the ground without significant hazard to aircrew, ground crew, passengers or to other third parties. |
Airworthiness Standards | Detailed and comprehensive design and safety criteria applicable to the category of aeronautical product (aircraft, engine or propeller). |
Fixed Base Operator (FBO) | A business or organization that operates at an airport. An FBO provides aircraft operating services like maintenance, fueling, flight training, charter services, hangaring, and parking. |
High Net worth Individuals (HNWIs) | High Net worth Individuals (HNWIs) are individuals with over USD 1 million in liquid financial assets. |
Ultra High Net worth Individuals (UHNWIs) | Ultra High Net worth Individuals (UHNWIs) are individuals with over USD 30 million in liquid financial assets. |
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) | The division of the Department of Transportation is concerned with aviation. It operates Air Traffic Control and regulates everything from aircraft manufacturing to pilot training to airport operations in the United States. |
EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) | The European Aviation Safety Agency is a European Union agency established in 2002 with the task of overseeing civil aviation safety and regulation. |
Airborne Warning and Control System (AW&C) aircraft | Airborne Warning and Control System (AEW&C) aircraft is equipped with a powerful radar and on-board command and control center to direct the armed forces. |
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) | The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), also called the North Atlantic Alliance, is an intergovernmental military alliance between 30 member states – 28 European and two North American. |
Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) | Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) is a development and acquisition program intended to replace a wide range of existing fighter, strike, and ground attack aircraft for the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Canada, Australia, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and formerly Turkey. |
Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) | A light combat aircraft (LCA) is a light, multirole jet/turboprop military aircraft, commonly derived from advanced trainer designs, designed for engaging in light combat. |
Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) | Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) is an international institute that provides data, analysis, and recommendations for armed conflict, military expenditure, and arms trade as well as disarmament and arms control. |
Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) | A maritime patrol aircraft (MPA), also known as maritime reconnaissance aircraft is a fixed-wing aircraft designed to operate for long durations over water in maritime patrol roles, in particular, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-ship warfare (AShW), and search and rescue (SAR). |
Mach Number | The Mach number is defined as the ratio of true airspeed to the speed of sound at the altitude of a given aircraft. |
Stealth Aircraft | Stealth is a Common term applied to low observable (LO) technology and doctrine, that makes an aircraft near invisible to radar, infrared or visual detection. |
Research Methodology
Mordor Intelligence follows a four-step methodology in all our reports.
- Step-1: Identify Key Variables: In order to build a robust forecasting methodology, the variables and factors identified in Step-1 are tested against available historical market numbers. Through an iterative process, the variables required for market forecast are set and the model is built on the basis of these variables.
- Step-2: Build a Market Model: Market-size estimations for the historical and forecast years have been provided in revenue and volume terms. For sales conversion to volume, the average selling price (ASP) is kept constant throughout the forecast period for each country, and inflation is not a part of the pricing.
- Step-3: Validate and Finalize: In this important step, all market numbers, variables and analyst calls are validated through an extensive network of primary research experts from the market studied. The respondents are selected across levels and functions to generate a holistic picture of the market studied.
- Step-4: Research Outputs: Syndicated Reports, Custom Consulting Assignments, Databases & Subscription Platforms