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Add to CartPropulsion Systems Market
By Type;
Air-Breathing, and Non-Air BreathingBy Type of Propulsion System;
Liquid Propellant Engines and Solid Propellant MotorsBy Power Output;
Micro Propulsion Systems and Low-thrust EnginesBy Application;
Missiles, Aircraft, Spacecraft, and Unnamed Aerial VehiclesBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Propulsion Systems Market Overview
Propulsion Systems Market (USD Million)
Propulsion Systems Market was valued at USD 451,046.06 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 788,170.34 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.3%.
Propulsion Systems Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 8.3 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 8.3 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 451,046.06 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 788,170.34 Million |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
| Report Pages | 394 |
Major Players
- Safran S.A
- Rolls-Royce Holdings plc
- General Electric Company
- Orbital ATK Inc
- Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc
- Honeywell International Inc
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Propulsion Systems Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Propulsion Systems Market is experiencing consistent growth, fueled by the rising demand for efficient mobility solutions across aerospace, marine, and automotive industries. With propulsion technologies driving over 55% of advancements in aerospace engineering, the sector plays a crucial role in performance optimization and fuel efficiency. Increasing investments in defense and commercial applications further highlight its strategic importance.
Shift Toward Sustainable Technologies
The market is witnessing a strong shift toward eco-friendly propulsion systems, with hybrid and electric models gaining significant traction. Currently, more than 40% of new R&D projects focus on reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency. This transition reflects global sustainability goals and growing consumer preference for greener transportation solutions.
Automotive and Marine Advancements
Automotive and marine industries are adopting advanced propulsion technologies to enhance efficiency and meet stricter emission regulations. Electric propulsion is expanding rapidly, with over 35% of new marine vessels now incorporating hybrid-electric systems. In the automotive sector, electrification of vehicles is accelerating propulsion system innovations.
Market Growth and Future Outlook
With rapid innovation, supportive regulations, and increased investment in R&D, the propulsion systems market is set for strong expansion. More than 45% of industry players are entering collaborations to drive sustainable solutions, ensuring long-term growth and competitiveness in the global market landscape.
Propulsion Systems Market Recent Developments
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In July 2022, Rolls-Royce and Hyundai Motor Group collaborated to introduce all-electric propulsion and hydrogen fuel cell technologies aimed at advanced air mobility (AAM). This initiative seeks to promote sustainable aviation through battery and fuel cell solutions for urban air mobility systems
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In July 2022, Raytheon Technologies launched the Scalable Turboelectric Powertrain Technology (STEP-Tech) demonstrator program. This hybrid-electric initiative focuses on developing propulsion technologies for sustainable aviation, supporting net-zero carbon emissions by 2050
Segment Analysis
The Global Propulsion Systems Market undergoes a comprehensive segment analysis to delineate the diverse landscape of propulsion technologies, applications, and end-user industries. One primary dimension of segmentation lies in the type of propulsion systems deployed across various sectors. In the aerospace industry, for instance, propulsion systems play a pivotal role in aircraft propulsion, providing thrust for lift and propulsion through the air. These systems encompass a variety of technologies, including turbofan engines, turboprop engines, turbojet engines, and ramjet engines, each tailored to specific aircraft types, performance requirements, and operational environments.
Another significant segment within the propulsion systems market pertains to marine propulsion systems, which are essential for powering ships, boats, and marine vessels through water. Marine propulsion systems encompass a diverse range of technologies, including diesel engines, gas turbines, electric propulsion systems, and hybrid propulsion systems, each offering distinct advantages in terms of fuel efficiency, power output, and environmental impact. From commercial shipping vessels and naval warships to leisure boats and offshore platforms, propulsion systems serve as critical components for marine propulsion and maneuverability across various maritime applications.
Furthermore, the automotive segment represents a significant market for propulsion systems, with a focus on internal combustion engines, electric propulsion systems, and hybrid propulsion systems. Internal combustion engines, including gasoline engines, diesel engines, and alternative fuel engines, remain the dominant propulsion technology in the automotive industry, powering passenger cars, trucks, buses, and other vehicles. However, the growing emphasis on sustainability, energy efficiency, and emissions reduction has led to increased adoption of electric propulsion systems, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), offering alternatives to traditional combustion engines.
Geographical segmentation also plays a crucial role in analyzing the propulsion systems market, with regional variations in demand, technological capabilities, and regulatory environments shaping market dynamics. Regions such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America exhibit distinct market characteristics driven by factors such as industrialization, automotive industry growth, maritime trade, and aerospace industry expansion. For instance, Asia Pacific emerges as a key market for propulsion systems, driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and investments in automotive, maritime, and aerospace sectors across countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea.
In summary, the segment analysis of the Global Propulsion Systems Market underscores the diverse applications, technologies, and regional dynamics driving growth and innovation in the propulsion industry. By understanding these segmentation dimensions and responding to evolving market trends, propulsion system manufacturers can tailor their products and services to meet the specific needs and preferences of customers worldwide, driving innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in the global propulsion systems market.
Global Propulsion Systems Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Propulsion Systems Market has been segmented by Type, Application and Geography.
Global Propulsion Systems Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Propulsion Systems Market has been segmented by Type into Air-Breathing and Non-Air Breathing.
The segmentation of the global propulsion systems market by type into air-breathing and non-air-breathing categories delineates between propulsion systems that rely on atmospheric oxygen for combustion and those that do not. Air-breathing propulsion systems, which include traditional internal combustion engines and gas turbines, draw in atmospheric air to support combustion, generating thrust to propel vehicles and vessels forward. These systems are widely used across various modes of transportation, including aircraft, ships, and automotive vehicles. In the aerospace sector, air-breathing propulsion systems power commercial airliners, military jets, and general aviation aircraft, providing the necessary thrust for flight. Similarly, in the maritime industry, air-breathing propulsion systems drive cargo ships, cruise liners, and naval vessels, utilizing diesel engines or gas turbines to propel vessels through water. Additionally, in the automotive sector, air-breathing propulsion systems dominate the market, with gasoline and diesel engines powering cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles. Despite the widespread use of air-breathing propulsion systems, there is growing interest in alternative propulsion technologies, particularly in response to environmental concerns and emissions regulations.
In contrast, non-air-breathing propulsion systems represent a distinct category of propulsion systems that do not rely on atmospheric oxygen for combustion. Instead, these systems utilize alternative fuels or energy sources to generate thrust, offering potential advantages in terms of efficiency, emissions, and sustainability. Non-air-breathing propulsion systems encompass a diverse range of technologies, including electric propulsion, hydrogen fuel cells, and solid rocket motors. Electric propulsion systems, for example, utilize electric motors powered by batteries, fuel cells, or other energy storage devices to drive vehicles forward, offering zero-emission mobility solutions for aerospace, maritime, and automotive applications. Similarly, hydrogen fuel cells represent an emerging technology in the propulsion systems market, leveraging hydrogen gas to produce electricity through electrochemical reactions, powering electric motors for propulsion. With the push towards decarbonization and sustainability, non-air-breathing propulsion systems are gaining traction as viable alternatives to traditional air-breathing propulsion systems, driving innovation and investment in the global propulsion systems market.
Global Propulsion Systems Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Propulsion Systems Market has been segmented by Application into Missiles, Aircraft, Spacecraft and Unnamed Aerial Vehicles.
The segmentation of the Global Propulsion Systems Market by application provides valuable insights into the diverse array of propulsion technologies deployed across various sectors, including missiles, aircraft, spacecraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). One significant segment within this framework is the category of propulsion systems used in missiles, which play a critical role in providing thrust and maneuverability for various types of missiles, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and guided missiles. These propulsion systems encompass a range of technologies, such as solid rocket motors, liquid rocket engines, and hybrid propulsion systems, tailored to specific missile types, performance requirements, and mission objectives.
In the aerospace industry, propulsion systems serve as the backbone of aircraft propulsion, providing the thrust necessary for lift and propulsion through the air. Aircraft propulsion systems include turbofan engines, turboprop engines, turbojet engines, and ramjet engines, each optimized for different aircraft types, performance profiles, and operational requirements. Whether powering commercial airliners, military fighter jets, cargo planes, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), propulsion systems play a critical role in enabling controlled flight, maneuverability, and mission success in aerospace applications.
The space sector represents a significant market for propulsion systems, with spacecraft propulsion systems powering satellites, space probes, and manned spacecraft into orbit and beyond. Spacecraft propulsion technologies include chemical propulsion systems, electric propulsion systems, and advanced propulsion concepts such as solar sails and ion thrusters, offering efficient and reliable means of maneuvering and propelling spacecraft in the vacuum of space. From satellite deployments and interplanetary missions to space station resupply missions and lunar exploration, propulsion systems play a crucial role in advancing space exploration and satellite communications capabilities.
The proliferation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, has created a burgeoning market for propulsion systems tailored to the unique requirements of unmanned aerial platforms. UAV propulsion systems encompass a variety of technologies, including electric motors, internal combustion engines, and hybrid propulsion systems, providing the thrust and endurance necessary for diverse UAV applications, such as surveillance, reconnaissance, aerial photography, and package delivery. As UAV technology continues to evolve and expand into new sectors, propulsion systems play a vital role in enabling the capabilities and performance of unmanned aerial platforms.
In conclusion, the segmentation of the Global Propulsion Systems Market by application underscores the critical role of propulsion technologies in various sectors, including missiles, aircraft, spacecraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles. By understanding the specific requirements and performance objectives of each application segment, propulsion system manufacturers can tailor their products and services to meet the diverse needs of customers worldwide, driving innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in the global propulsion systems market.
Global Propulsion Systems Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Propulsion Systems Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Propulsion Systems Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
The Global Propulsion Systems Market is intricately shaped by geographical segmentation, reflecting diverse regional dynamics, regulatory landscapes, and technological advancements across different parts of the world. Geographical segmentation offers valuable insights into market trends, competitive forces, and growth opportunities, enabling stakeholders to tailor their strategies to specific regional markets and address local preferences and requirements effectively.
In North America, the propulsion systems market is characterized by a combination of technological innovation, regulatory standards, and strategic investments in aerospace, defense, and automotive industries. With established aerospace manufacturers, defense contractors, and automotive OEMs, North America remains a key hub for propulsion system development and innovation. Additionally, government initiatives to promote clean energy and reduce emissions are driving the adoption of electric and hybrid propulsion systems in the region, particularly in the automotive sector.
In Europe, the propulsion systems market benefits from a strong tradition of engineering excellence, collaborative research, and investment in sustainable transportation solutions. European countries are leading the transition towards electrification and renewable energy in transportation, with significant investments in electric vehicles, renewable fuels, and alternative propulsion technologies. Moreover, stringent emissions regulations and environmental targets are driving demand for cleaner and more efficient propulsion systems across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and marine.
In the Asia-Pacific region, the propulsion systems market is characterized by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and technological innovation, particularly in emerging economies such as China, India, and South Korea. These countries are experiencing robust growth in aerospace, automotive, and maritime sectors, driving demand for propulsion systems that offer superior performance, efficiency, and reliability. Additionally, government initiatives to promote domestic manufacturing, innovation, and infrastructure development are creating opportunities for propulsion system suppliers and manufacturers to expand their presence in the region.
Overall, geographical segmentation provides valuable insights into the diverse market dynamics shaping the Global Propulsion Systems Market across different regions. By understanding regional variations in regulatory environments, market trends, and customer preferences, stakeholders can capitalize on growth opportunities, mitigate market risks, and drive innovation to meet the evolving needs of customers worldwide.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Propulsion Systems Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Sustainability
- Decarbonization
- Environmental regulations
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Energy efficiency -Energy efficiency stands as a central focus in the global propulsion systems market, driving innovation, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness across various transportation sectors. Propulsion systems play a critical role in determining the overall energy consumption and performance of vehicles and vessels, making improvements in energy efficiency a top priority for manufacturers, operators, and regulators alike.
In the aerospace industry, energy efficiency is paramount for reducing fuel consumption, operating costs, and environmental impact. Commercial airliners, military aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) rely on propulsion systems that offer optimal fuel efficiency and range to meet the demands of long-haul flights, aerial missions, and cargo transportation. With advancements in aerodynamics, materials science, and engine technology, aerospace manufacturers are continuously striving to develop more efficient propulsion systems, including turbofan engines, turboprop engines, and electric propulsion solutions. These technologies enable aircraft to achieve higher levels of fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and reduced operating costs, driving sustainability and competitiveness in the global aviation market.
The maritime sector, energy efficiency is a key consideration for shipowners and operators seeking to minimize fuel consumption, comply with emissions regulations, and reduce environmental impact. Large cargo ships, container vessels, and cruise liners rely on propulsion systems that offer optimal fuel efficiency and performance across various operating conditions and voyage profiles. Traditional marine propulsion systems, such as diesel engines and gas turbines, are continuously being optimized for improved energy efficiency through advancements in engine design, fuel injection technology, and waste heat recovery systems. Additionally, the adoption of alternative propulsion technologies, including LNG propulsion, electric propulsion, and hybrid propulsion systems, offers opportunities to further enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in maritime transportation.
In the automotive sector, energy efficiency is a driving force behind the electrification of vehicles and the adoption of electric propulsion systems. Electric cars, hybrid vehicles, and fuel-efficient internal combustion engines are designed to maximize energy efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and minimize greenhouse gas emissions. With advancements in battery technology, electric drivetrains, and regenerative braking systems, electric vehicles (EVs) offer significant improvements in energy efficiency compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, driving the transition towards sustainable mobility. Additionally, the integration of smart energy management systems, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, and renewable energy sources further enhances the energy efficiency and sustainability of electric propulsion systems, paving the way for a greener and more efficient transportation future.
Overall, energy efficiency remains a critical consideration in the global propulsion systems market, shaping the development and adoption of innovative propulsion technologies across aerospace, maritime, and automotive sectors. As industries continue to prioritize sustainability and emissions reduction, propulsion system manufacturers are poised to capitalize on opportunities to drive efficiency, enhance performance, and address the evolving needs of customers worldwide. By embracing energy-efficient propulsion solutions and leveraging technological advancements, the global propulsion systems market can play a pivotal role in driving sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness in the transportation industry.
Restraints:
- Infrastructure limitations
- Cost constraints
- Energy density
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Safety concerns -Safety concerns represent a paramount consideration in the Global Propulsion Systems Market, influencing design, manufacturing, operation, and regulation of propulsion technologies across various industries. In sectors such as aerospace and automotive, where propulsion systems power vehicles carrying passengers or payloads, safety considerations are of utmost importance to ensure the protection of human life, property, and the environment. Propulsion system manufacturers prioritize safety through rigorous design validation, testing protocols, and adherence to industry standards and regulations to mitigate risks associated with propulsion system failures, malfunctions, or accidents.
One of the primary safety concerns in propulsion systems revolves around reliability and redundancy, particularly in critical applications such as aircraft propulsion, where engine failures can have catastrophic consequences. Propulsion system manufacturers employ redundant systems, fault-tolerant designs, and comprehensive testing procedures to minimize the likelihood of component failures and ensure continued operation in the event of system malfunctions or emergencies. Additionally, predictive maintenance techniques, real-time monitoring systems, and condition-based maintenance practices help identify potential safety hazards and preemptively address issues before they escalate into safety incidents.
Safety concerns extend beyond the propulsion systems themselves to encompass factors such as fuel storage, handling, and transportation in industries like aerospace, maritime, and automotive. Propulsion systems powered by liquid or gaseous fuels pose inherent risks associated with fuel leakage, combustion, and environmental contamination, necessitating stringent safety measures, leak detection systems, and emergency response protocols to mitigate hazards and ensure safe operation. Moreover, advancements in alternative propulsion technologies, such as electric propulsion systems, offer opportunities to reduce reliance on traditional fuels and mitigate safety risks associated with combustible propellants.
In the context of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and autonomous systems, safety concerns center on collision avoidance, airspace management, and regulatory compliance to ensure the safe integration of unmanned vehicles into the airspace. Propulsion system manufacturers collaborate with regulatory agencies, aviation authorities, and industry stakeholders to develop standards, protocols, and technologies that enhance the safety of UAV operations and mitigate risks to manned aircraft, infrastructure, and bystanders. Additionally, advancements in sense-and-avoid systems, flight control algorithms, and communication protocols enable UAVs to operate safely and autonomously in complex airspace environments, minimizing the risk of collisions and accidents.
Safety concerns in the propulsion systems market encompass environmental considerations, including emissions reduction, pollution prevention, and sustainability initiatives aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of propulsion technologies. Propulsion system manufacturers invest in research and development of cleaner, more efficient propulsion technologies, such as hybrid-electric systems, hydrogen fuel cells, and biofuels, to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and resource depletion associated with traditional propulsion systems. By prioritizing safety, environmental stewardship, and regulatory compliance, propulsion system manufacturers can enhance the sustainability and resilience of propulsion technologies in the global market.
Opportunities:
- Sustainable propulsion
- Electric propulsion
- Hydrogen fuel cells
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Alternative fuels -The Global Propulsion Systems Market is undergoing a significant transformation driven by the increasing adoption of alternative fuels, reflecting a growing emphasis on sustainability, energy efficiency, and emissions reduction across various industries. Alternative fuels offer an environmentally friendly and economically viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels, enabling manufacturers and operators to reduce their carbon footprint and comply with stringent emissions regulations. In the context of propulsion systems, the shift towards alternative fuels is driving innovation and diversification in propulsion technologies, paving the way for cleaner and more sustainable transportation solutions.
One of the key drivers of alternative fuels in the propulsion systems market is the rising demand for electric propulsion systems in the automotive sector. Electric vehicles (EVs) powered by batteries or fuel cells offer zero-emission transportation solutions, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. As governments worldwide implement policies to promote electric mobility, automotive manufacturers are investing heavily in electric propulsion technologies, including electric motors, power electronics, and battery systems, to meet growing consumer demand for eco-friendly vehicles.
Alternative fuels such as hydrogen, biofuels, and synthetic fuels are gaining traction in the aviation and maritime sectors, where reducing emissions and enhancing fuel efficiency are top priorities. Hydrogen-powered aircraft and ships, biofuel-blended jet fuels, and synthetic fuels produced from renewable sources offer viable alternatives to conventional fossil fuels, enabling aircraft and vessels to achieve lower emissions and comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. Additionally, advancements in propulsion technologies, including hydrogen fuel cells, hybrid-electric systems, and advanced combustion engines, are driving the adoption of alternative fuels in aerospace and maritime applications.
The adoption of alternative fuels in the propulsion systems market is supported by government incentives, research funding, and industry collaborations aimed at accelerating the development and deployment of sustainable transportation solutions. Incentives such as tax credits, grants, and subsidies for alternative fuel vehicles and infrastructure investments are spurring innovation and investment in alternative propulsion technologies across the transportation sector. Additionally, industry partnerships and collaborative initiatives are facilitating knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and market development, driving the widespread adoption of alternative fuels in propulsion systems worldwide.
In conclusion, alternative fuels are playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Global Propulsion Systems Market, driving innovation, sustainability, and resilience in transportation systems. By embracing alternative fuels and propulsion technologies, manufacturers and operators can reduce their environmental impact, enhance energy security, and position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Propulsion Systems Market include:
- Safran S.A
- Rolls-Royce Holdings plc
- General Electric Company
- Orbital ATK Inc
- Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc
- Honeywell International Inc
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Type of Propulsion System
- Market Snapshot, By Power Output
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Propulsion Systems Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Sustainability
- Decarbonization
- Environmental regulations
- Energy efficiency
- Restraints
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Infrastructure limitations
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Cost constraints
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Energy density
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Safety concerns
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- Opportunities
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Sustainable propulsion
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Electric propulsion
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Hydrogen fuel cells
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Alternative fuels
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Propulsion Systems Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Air-Breathing
- Non-Air Breathing
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Propulsion Systems Market, By Type of Propulsion System, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Liquid Propellant Engines
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Solid Propellant Motors
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Propulsion Systems Market, By Power Output, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Liquid Propellant Engines
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Solid Propellant Motors
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- Propulsion Systems Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Missile
- Aircraft
- Spacecraft
- Unnamed Aerial Vehicles
- Propulsion Systems Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Propulsion Systems Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Safran S.A
- Rolls-Royce Holdings plc
- General Electric Company
- Orbital ATK Inc
- Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc
- Honeywell International Inc
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market