Automated Aerial Refueling System Market - Global Forecast 2025-2032

The automated aerial refueling system market is seeing accelerated traction as defense sectors respond to operational demands for greater mission endurance, autonomy, and flexible force projection. Senior leaders seeking robust, data-led analysis can leverage this report to understand the shifting landscape and competitive drivers shaping procurement and innovation.

Market Snapshot: Automated Aerial Refueling System Market Growth

The automated aerial refueling system market grew from USD 592.81 million in 2024 to USD 634.81 million in 2025. It is expected to continue growing at a CAGR of 6.99%, reaching USD 1.01 billion by 2032. Market growth is being driven by rising investments in autonomous technologies, evolving defense postures demanding rapid deployment, and the adoption of next-generation unmanned platforms. As operators seek to extend mission range and increase operational efficiency, demand for precision aerial refueling solutions is set to remain strong. Coalitions and global defense entities are also ramping up refueling capabilities in the face of complex, multi-theater scenarios.

Scope & Segmentation

This report delivers an in-depth examination of the automated aerial refueling system market across multiple dimensions:

• System Type:
  • Flying boom systems, including booms, control valves, and receptacles
  • Hose drum units encompassing control units, drums, and hoses
  • Probe and drogue mechanisms with couplings, drogues, and hose assemblies
• Platform:
  • Fixed wing operations featuring receiver and tanker aircraft
  • Helicopter operations including search and rescue or utility missions
  • Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) segmented by high, medium, and low altitude mission types
• End User:
  • Air Force
  • Allied Forces
  • Commercial Operators
• Range:
  • Long Range
  • Short Range
• Geographies:
  • Americas encompassing North America and Latin America
  • Europe, Middle East & Africa featuring NATO, Middle Eastern, and African markets
  • Asia-Pacific including major economies such as China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and others
• Leading Companies Analyzed:
  • The Boeing Company
  • Airbus SE
  • Lockheed Martin Corporation
  • Leonardo S.p.A
  • Cobham plc
  • Eaton Corporation plc
  • Honeywell International Inc.
  • SAFRAN S.A.
  • Kongsberg Gruppen ASA
  • Elbit Systems Ltd

Key Takeaways: Strategic Direction for Automated Aerial Refueling

• Automated aerial refueling systems are fundamentally increasing mission flexibility, with recent technology enabling both manned and unmanned platforms to safely refuel in varied operational conditions.
• Emerging closed-loop controls and sensor integrations are reducing dependence on manual oversight, improving safety, and minimizing in-flight refueling incidents, especially under contested or low-visibility scenarios.
• Advancements in autonomy and machine learning are lowering the skill threshold required for system operation, broadening adoption possibilities across diverse user groups and mission profiles.
• Key segmentation trends show increased specialization, with UAV-focused solutions and hybrid rotary assets gaining market share as national programs prioritize long-duration, persistent surveillance, and rapid-response capabilities.
• Regional investment disparities create unique opportunities, as North America and Asia-Pacific focus on scaling advanced refuelers, while Europe and Africa develop interoperable solutions for coalition operations and austere environments.
• Collaborative partnerships and targeted joint ventures are critical for technology transfer, localized production, and supply chain resilience in this increasingly complex regulatory and procurement environment.

Tariff Impact on Supply Chains in 2025

Revised United States tariffs in 2025 are impacting material, component sourcing, and logistics, prompting industry players to adopt localization strategies. Companies are refining value engineering and investing in domestic manufacturing and diversified vendor bases to ensure supply continuity. Allied responses, including reciprocal trade measures and collaborative bargains, are shaping procurement and partnership strategies globally.

Methodology & Data Sources

This research integrates primary interviews with defense officials, integrators, and supply chain experts, coupled with in-depth analysis of secondary literature such as technical journals and regulatory documents. Data triangulation aligns expert perspectives with quantitative benchmarks, while subject matter peer reviews and iterative feedback loops assure quality and relevance.

Why This Report Matters

• Provides strategic guidance for procurement planning under evolving operational and regulatory standards
• Highlights actionable insights for adapting to supply chain disruptions and navigating tariff complexities
• Helps identify technology, partnership, and segmentation opportunities to optimize investment and deployment outcomes

Conclusion

The automated aerial refueling system market continues to evolve, balancing technological innovation with supply chain and regulatory challenges. This report enables informed decision-making for organizations navigating this dynamic defense sector and seeking enhanced operational reach.

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