Market Trends of Naval Ship Propeller Industry
The Fixed Pitch Propellers Segment Holds Highest Shares in the Market
The fixed-pitch propellers segment holds the highest market share in the market. Fixed pitch propellers are robust and reliable, as the system does not incorporate any mechanical and hydraulic subsystems as in the controlled pitch propellers. Moreover, the manufacturing, installation, and operational costs are lower than the other types of propellers. Thus, they are now widely used in naval ships.
The fixed-pitch propellers are well suited for smaller vessels and applications where accessibility is crucial. Furthermore, their consistent performance in various environmental conditions and operational requirements further strengthens their position in the market. For instance, in April 2021, Rolls-Royce reached an agreement with Fincantieri Marinette Marine to design and manufacture up to 40 fixed-pitch propellers for the US Navy's Constellation-class (FFG-62) guided missile frigate program.
Asia-Pacific Region to Showcase Remarkable Growth During the Forecast Period
Asia-Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Procurements of naval ships in the region are driven by the high military expenditure by the emerging economies in the Asia-Pacific region, such as India and China. Additionally, the disputes in the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, and the South China Sea are propelling the navies to further strengthen their sea-based capabilities.
The region's growing shipbuilding industry and geopolitical tensions may further boost the demand for naval vessels, driving the adoption of advanced propulsion systems, including propellers. All these factors are helping the procurement of naval ships, thereby supporting the growth of the naval ship propeller market. For instance, in August 2022, BAE Systems Australia granted a USD 1.76 million contract to VEEM Ltd to construct two prototype propeller blades and a propeller hub for Australia's Hunter class frigates under the supervision of OEM Kongsberg Maritime. It is the final test of VEEM's capacity to manufacture to the Hunter's strict criteria. It represents a critical milestone for VEEM Ltd as it strives to become a defence-qualified warship propeller maker for the Hunter program.
