Press Release

Contact: Larry Dickerson, Unmanned Systems Analyst
Phone: (203) 426-0800
Fax: (203) 426-4262
Web site: www.forecastinternational.com
E-mail: larry.dickerson@forecast1.com
Forecast International, Inc.
22 Commerce Rd. Newtown, CT 06470 USA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Insatiable Demand Fuels Boom in UAV Market

NEWTOWN, Conn. [October 12, 2009] The UAV market has seen unprecedented growth since 2001, with its current projected value over the next 10 years estimated at $17.9 billion. “An insatiable demand for unmanned air vehicles is fueling massive growth within this market,” said Larry Dickerson, senior unmanned systems analyst for Forecast International. "No matter how many UAVs are built, military agencies want more."

Dickerson notes that a few years ago, UAV contracts in the millions of dollars were big news; now these awards are in the billions. "In addition to procurement, research funding for unmanned air vehicles could exceed $20 billion through 2018," he added.

The $17.9 billion market for UAV reconnaissance systems includes all air vehicles, ground control equipment, and payloads likely to be produced between 2009 and 2018. The United States is the driving force behind this market, and U.S.-based companies will account for more than 60 percent of the market's value. Still, demand for UAVs is growing elsewhere.

Europe is the second largest market for UAVs, with France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom working to expand their UAV fleets. However, a shortage of funding is hindering some research and procurement programs.

In Asia, new UAVs – some from local sources – are being acquired by Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Purchases are not restricted to major powers and those facing conventional warfare threats.

"Countries around the world are purchasing UAVs. Those purchases may be small, but growth is foreseen," Dickerson said.

Forecast International, Inc. (www.forecastinternational.com) is a leading provider of Market Intelligence and Analysis in the areas of aerospace, defense, power systems and military electronics. Based in Newtown, Conn., USA, Forecast International specializes in long-range industry forecasts and market assessments used by strategic planners, marketing professionals, military organizations, and governments worldwide. To arrange an interview with Forecast International’s editors, please contact Ray Peterson, Vice President, Research & Editorial Services (203)-426-0800, ray.peterson@forecast1.com. Proprietary Special Research is also available. Contact Jonathan Watson, Managing Director, The Forecast Consulting Group (j.watson@forecast1.com).