Global Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) Market Outlook to 2028

Global Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle Market Overview 

The Global Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) Market size was valued at USD 2.3 billion in 2023. The market growth is driven by increasing maritime safety concerns, rising underwater threats, and the need for efficient rescue operations in both military and commercial sectors. Technological advancements and increased defense budgets in various countries further propel the market. 

Key players in the DSRV market include James Fisher & Sons plc, General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc., Ocean Works International, SAAB AB, and Lockheed Martin Corporation. These companies are at the forefront of innovation, continuously improving their DSRV offerings to meet the growing demands of naval forces and commercial entities worldwide. 

On September 27, 2023, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy successfully demonstrated the launch of a Trident II D5 Life Extension Fleet Ballistic Missile from an Ohio-class submarine. This test, part of Demonstration and Shakedown Operation-32, marked the 191st successful launch, showcasing the reliability and strategic deterrence capabilities of the D5 missile system?. 

North America, particularly the United States, dominates by its substantial defense budget and advanced technological capabilities. The U.S. continues to set the pace in this market through continuous innovation and strategic initiatives. 

Global Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle Market Segmentation 

The market can be segmented in various factors like product, application and region. 

By Product: The market is segmented by product into manned DSRVs and unmanned DSRVs. In 2023, manned DSRVs held a dominant market share, due to their advanced capabilities in human life support systems and the ability to perform complex rescue missions. Unmanned DSRVs, while growing in popularity, are primarily used for reconnaissance and initial assessment missions. 

By Application: The market is segmented by application into Military, Commercial, and Scientific Research. In 2023, the military segment dominated the market with the increasing need for naval defense capabilities and efficient rescue operations drives the demand in this segment.  

By Region: The market is segmented by region into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. In 2023, North America dominated the DSRV market with its significant defense budget, technological advancements, and strong demand for underwater rescue solutions. The U.S. leads the region with extensive investments in naval infrastructure and continuous innovations in DSRV technology.

Global Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle Market Competitive Landscape 

Company Name
 

Establishment Year 

Headquarters 

James Fisher & Sons plc 

1847 

Barrow-in-Furness, UK 

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc. 

1952 

Fairfax, VA, USA 

Ocean Works International 

1987 

Vancouver, Canada 

SAAB AB 

1937 

Stockholm, Sweden 

Lockheed Martin Corporation 

1995 

Bethesda, MD, USA 

James Fisher & Sons plc: JFD, a subsidiary of James Fisher and Sons plc, successfully completed sea trials for the first of two 3rd Generation Submarine Rescue Systems for the Indian Navy.?The company also conducted air transportability trials to ensure the fast and effective deployment of the submarine rescue system. 

Ocean Works International: Ocean Works International Systems, Inc. has been awarded a contract to supply three Submarine Emergency Ventilation and Decompression Systems (SEVDS) to the Turkish Navy. This initiative is part of Turkey's efforts to enhance its submarine rescue capabilities, including outfitting three dedicated rescue vessels. 

Global Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle Market Analysis 

Market Growth Drivers 

Increasing Defense Budgets: In 2024, the U.S. Department of Defense request to allocate USD 849.8 billion for defense spending, including substantial investments in underwater rescue capabilities. This surge in defense budgets is mirrored globally, with countries like China and India also significantly boosting their naval expenditures, leading to increased demand for advanced DSRVs. 

Rising Incidents of Underwater Threats: According to Global Maritime Safety Report, in 2024 indicate a notable increase in submarine accidents and underwater threats. With over 25 incidents recorded globally, there is a heightened need for efficient rescue operations, driving the market for DSRVs equipped with advanced rescue and life support systems 

Expansion of Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration: The global offshore oil and gas industry continues to grow, with exploration activities expanding to deeper waters. In 2024, the industry invested in offshore projects, necessitating advanced DSRVs for both exploration support and emergency rescue operations. 

Market Challenges
 

Technological Limitations in Extreme Environments: Despite advancements, DSRVs face operational challenges in extreme underwater environments. In 2024, several incidents highlighted the limitations of existing technology in deep-sea rescue missions, emphasizing the need for continued innovation and improvement. 

Limited Skilled Workforce: There is a shortage of skilled personnel trained to operate and maintain advanced DSRVs. In 2024, the global demand for skilled submarine rescue operators exceeded the supply by approximately 30,000 professionals, impacting the effective deployment and operation of these vehicles. 

Government Initiatives 

European Union Maritime Safety Project: In 2022, the European Union is enhancing maritime safety through the?SAFEMED V project, which began in April and will continue until March 2028. This initiative aims to improve safety, security, and environmental protection in the Mediterranean, involving multiple stakeholders to raise standards across member states. 

Indian Navy Modernization Program: The Indian Navy has indeed announced plans to enhance its capabilities in submarine rescue operations by procuring three new Deep Submarine Rescue Vehicles (DSRVs) as part of its modernization efforts in 2024. This initiative is accompanied by a budget increase exceeding USD 500 million, aimed at bolstering underwater rescue operations. 

Global Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle Market Future Outlook 

The future outlook for this market is promising, with expected growth in the expansion of autonomous underwater vehicles,  growth in multi-mission DSRVs, advancements in deep-water capabilities, and increased international collaborations. 

Future Market Trends 

Growth in Multi-Mission DSRVs: The market will see increased demand for multi-mission DSRVs capable of performing rescue, exploration, and environmental monitoring tasks. By 2028, multi-mission DSRVs will account for over 50% of new deployments, reflecting their versatility and cost-effectiveness. 

Advancements in Deep-Water Capabilities: Technological advancements will enable DSRVs to operate at greater depths, with projected capabilities reaching up to 3,000 meters by 2028. This will open new opportunities for deep-sea exploration and enhance rescue operations in previously inaccessible areas.
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