Product Overview and Scope of Hovercraft Market
The hovercraft is an amphibious vehicle supported by a cushion of air. Although often seen as a mysterious, even bizarre mode of transportation, it is conceptually quite simple. Another definition states that, hovercraft is an important used for many purposes. It can float above any type of terrain. Hovercraft sometimes called Air Cushion Vehicle due to its ability to move by cushion or skirt filled with air and causes the board to hover above the ground, and it moves by a thrust engine forward and fills up the cushion by the lift engine. The design and development of amphibious vehicle are becoming a trend around the world due to its various applications like surveillance, patrolling, monitoring, payload delivery, photography, data collections and many hazardous jobs. These vehicles are well known for its speed characteristic by which it could travel in water and land in high speed. The reason behind this characteristic is the hovercraft technology. The development of amphibious vehicle incorporated with spraying mechanism can be used for water body restoration in order to eradicate the effects of Eutrophication, weeds and mosquito control. It plays a major role in navigating both aquatic and terrestrial purposes. The structure of a hovercraft is comprised of the hull, duct, plenum chamber, and skirt. Hovercraft are used for rescue, commercial, military and paramilitary applications to transport, save and protect lives across the world's most challenging environments. Hovercraft are amphibious platforms that can be built to overcome the specific challenges each user faces. This has meant that within every industry where there is a need to operate within low infrastructure, isolated locations hovercraft is used to succeed. For instance, Griffon hovercraft have many commercial benefits, from passenger transportation to survey, logistics applications and oil spill response. Hovercraft can allow researchers to carry out studies in the shallow water areas, normally inaccessible by any other means. Hovercraft are used for logistical support extreme environments to deliver high payloads of resources and personnel to the most remote, low infrastructure locations in the world. There are several factors contributing to the growth of global hovercraft market. Factors such as, growing emphasis on making hovercraft more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly is expected to drive the demand for hovercraft. Increasing military expenditures worldwide are boosting the market for hovercraft across the globe. Whereas, adoption of Safe Transportation Options for Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations are also expected to drive the market growth. Thus, owing to all the above factors, the global hovercraft market is expected to show significant growth during the forecast period.
Global Hovercraft Market Revenue by Region (2019-2031)
Regions |
2019 |
2024 |
2031 |
Market Share (%) 2031 |
CAGR (%) (2024-2031) |
North America |
xx |
xx |
xx |
xx% |
xx% |
Europe |
xx |
xx |
xx |
xx% |
xx% |
Asia Pacific |
xx |
xx |
xx |
xx% |
xx% |
Latin America |
xx |
xx |
xx |
xx% |
xx% |
Middle East & Africa |
xx |
xx |
xx |
xx% |
xx% |
Total |
xx |
190.66 |
xx |
xx% |
1.88% |
Global Hovercraft Market Segmentation Analysis
By Size:
- Less than 10m
- Between 10m and 20m
- Greater than 20m
By End Use:
- Passenger Transport and Tourism
- Cargo Transportation
- Defense
- Search and Rescue
- Others
By Propulsion:
- Diesel powered
- Gasoline powered
- Others
Global Hovercraft Market by End Use:
Based on end use, the global hovercraft market is bifurcated into passenger transport and tourism, cargo transportation, defense, search and rescue, and others. The hovercraft is an important vehicle used for many purposes. It can float above any type of ground. Hovercraft sometimes called Air Cushion Vehicle due to its ability to move by cushion or skirt filled with air and cause the board to hover above the ground, and it moves by the thrust engine forward and fills up the cushion by lift engine. Other features which make the hovercraft attractive for military and defense purposes are, firstly, its ability to accept a considerable degree of overloading without significant loss of performance; secondly, its comparative invulnerability; and finally, the smallness of crew coupled with a relatively short training period. However, to balance the picture it is necessary 10 take into account two limitations in their mobility. Firstly, their size, and secondly, their performance on slopes which is limited to a steady climb of about one in eight. At present the descent of slopes at a controlled speed presents another problem, due mainly 0 the craft's almost friction free contact with the ground, which results in a rapid buildup in speed.
Hovercraft is an advanced marine vehicle that always attractive military gear for supporting all terrain warfare such as fast landing vehicle, beach raid operation, territorial control, etc. Hovercraft is capable of amphibious operation to bring troopers and logistics from landing ship to the certain mainland and even reach the city centre. By hovering in the above grounds with low pressure then the hovercraft operation may not activate minefield. Furthermore, hovercrafts are primarily employed in defense to provide combat support to forces during amphibious military operations. This provides military troops with efficient monitoring and inspection of land and water borders. In addition, it is used as landing crafts in military applications. It is also used for the transportation of military troops and defense arms such as tanks, weapons, missile launchers, infantry equipment, small aircraft, artillery systems, and others. Thus, countries across the globe are procuring hovercrafts for their robust defense system. This in turn, fuels the demand for hovercrafts. Therefore, owing to the above factors, the defense segment is expected to account for a significant market share during the forecast period.
Hovercraft Market – Industry Analysis
Market Drivers
- The rising number of search, and rescue operations is driving the growth of hovercraft market
The global hovercraft market is driven due to rising demand for hovercraft at search and rescue operations in situation of floods, earthquake collapsed building and tsunamis. These natural disasters such as tsunamis, earthquakes and other natural calamities results in casualties to the trapped individuals. This emergency situation needs proper assistance and rescue from this hazardous condition. The natural disaster areas including flood, hurricane, tsunamis, earthquakes require advanced vehicle which is operational and suitable for this hazardous environment. The manufacturer focuses on the introduction of hovercrafts, which also known as air cushion vehicle which travel or hover over land or water. The hovercraft creates a high-pressure cushion of air beneath the vehicle, which lifts it’s above the surface, and allows it to hover in the air. In January, 2023, the Neoteric Hovercraft Inc. launched a hovercraft, which can accommodate two persons. The company launched this hovercraft for targeting its usage in rescue and natural disaster operations. The newly launched Hovertrek II combined with a 40-hp Briggs & Stratton Vanguard Big Block engine used fir rescue and recovery operations in the US.
- Rising expenditure on military operations, drives the growth of hovercraft market
Global Hovercraft Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis
Griffon Hoverwork ltd
- Griffon Hoverwork ltd Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area, and Competitors
Hovercraft Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area, and Competitors
Sr. No. |
Item |
Description |
1 |
Company Name |
Griffon Hoverwork ltd |
2 |
Website |
www.griffonhoverwork.com/ |
3 |
Established Date |
1967 |
4 |
Headquartered |
United Kingdom |
5 |
Market Position/ History |
Griffon Hoverwork ltd company was founded in the year of 1967. The company’s headquarter is located in the United Kingdom. Griffon Hovercraft and Hoverwork, acquired by the Bland Group in 2008, merges to form Griffon Hoverwork Ltd. Hovercraft Consultants also joins Griffon Hoverwork, uniting almost half a century of hovercraft design, manufacture and operational experience. In 2016, the most advanced small craft offered by Griffon Hoverwork, the 995ED, is delivered to its first customer, the Malaysian Marine Department. An electric diesel craft with just under 1 tonne of payload powered by two engines. |
6 |
Sales Area |
Worldwide |
7 |
Manufacturing Location |
United Kingdom |
8 |
Competitors |
|
9 |
CEO |
Adrian Went |
10 |
Ownership Type |
Private |
11 |
Contact Information |
8 Hazel Road Woolston, Southampton SO19 7GA United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)23 8068 6666 |
- Business Segment/ Overview
Griffon Hoverwork ltd company engaged in several product segments such as hovercraft and LCAC-landing craft air cushion. The hovercraft segment includes small hovercraft, medium hovercraft, large hovercraft, and used hovercraft.
• Small hovercraft: 380TD Hovercraft, 995ED Hovercraft
• Medium hovercraft: 2000TD Hovercraft, 2450TD Hovercraft, '8000TD Hovercraft, 8100TD Hovercraft
• Large hovercraft: 12000TD Hovercraft, BHT Hovercraft
Hovercraft are used for rescue, commercial, military and paramilitary applications to transport, save and protect lives across the world's most challenging environments. Hovercraft are amphibious platforms that can be built to overcome the specific challenges each user faces. This has meant that within every industry where there is a need to operate within low infrastructure, isolated locations hovercraft are used to succeed.
Applications of hovercraft:
• Passenger & commercial hovercraft
• Military Hovercraft
• Rescue and medical aid hovercraft
- Hovercraft Product Types Specification
Product |
Product Description |
Small Hovercraft |
Key Features:
The Griffon 380TD is used in many roles, including rescue, military, policing and engineering support. Being road trailer-able allows the hovercraft to be deployed rapidly. The 380TD is a five seat amphibious hovercraft, suitable for use on inshore, coastal and tidal waters. It is capable of carrying loads of up to 380kg over shallow water, tidal terrain and dry land.
Key Features:
The advanced craft in Griffon Hoverwork’s range. This electric diesel craft provides precise manoeuvrability and a stable platform for operations with just under 1 tonne of payload for quick, direct, effective response The 995ED operates at 30 knots over shallows, beaches, weeds and debris with 0.5m of hover height separating the hull from the surface. The craft uses twin azimuth electric drive thrust modules. This gives the operator greater manoeuvrability and tighter turning compared to rudders whilst also reducing the noise levels. If one power module becomes inactive, the craft can continue to be operated with the remaining power-pack to return the users to safety.
|
Medium hovercraft |
Key Features
The most versatile and experienced craft, proven in the most extreme conditions from humanitarian disasters to war zones fulfilling the requirement of protecting and saving lives across the globe, no matter where they are. A turbocharged, electronically injected diesel engine, driving a large diameter variable pitch propeller, along with the advanced skirt design, delivers fast, safe performance of it’s role. Marine grade aluminium hull and advanced composite mouldings are used to guarantee strength, reliability and longevity. All 2000TD's are built with the intention of setting hovercraft standards, compliant to the High Speed Craft Code and optional Lloyd's Register Certification.
Key Features
Originating from Griffon’s most proven craft the 2450TD was created to provide a platform that could more effectively complete demanding tasks in extreme environments. The increased payload totalling 2400kgs allows for specialised equipment to be installed or transported without losing other capacities, manoeuvrability, or obstacle clearance. These additions can be fixed to the craft such as crane installations capable of loading quad bikes or snowmobiles for tasks of higher complexity in isolated, low infrastructure environments.
Key Features
The 8000TD is the best selling twin engine model in the Griffon Hoverwork range, with over 25 units built to date. Continuous development over more than 10 years has resulted in the most proven, versatile, twin-engine fully amphibious hovercraft, capable of carrying loads of up to 8,000kg. Two turbocharged, radiator cooled diesel engines, driving large diameter, variable pitch, ducted propellers, along with the advanced skirt design, delivers fast, safe performance over a wide variety of terrains and conditions. The marine grade aluminium hull and advanced composite mouldings guarantee strength, reliability and longevity.
Key Features:
An amphibious, all terrain logistical work horse. A platform for the protection of lives and sovereignty.The 8100TD ensures tactical asset delivery and deployment for the future proofing of defensive capability in evolving environments. The 8100TD is the larger, 10 tonne carrying “big brother” to the most popular twin engine model in the Griffon Hoverwork range; the 8000TD. The increased payload provides for ballistic protection, mounted equipment or additional cargo to be added without hindering craft usability. With increased interior space, vehicles and higher passenger numbers are accommodated. Continuous engineering development on this range has resulted in a versatile, twin-engine craft built for rapid response and logistical power in any environment.
|
Large hovercraft |
Key Features:
The 12000TD is a ground-breaking hovercraft combining experience and modern technology, to deliver the most technically advanced and modern hovercraft available today with 12 tonnes of payload and a prioritised user experience. Maintaining the renowned robustness of the Hoverwork legacy, mixed with the light-weight approach of Griffon hovercraft, the 12000TD introduces the newest technology and production quality improvements. This hovercraft delivers the advantages of low running and maintenance costs. Production improvements on the 12000TD reduces noise levels significantly reduced when compared with craft of a similar size.
Key Features
18-21 tonne high payload hovercraft for effective delivery of logistics, passengers and vehicles over long distances on a platform specialised for the role. The BHT connects everything that's needed to beyond furthest reaches human development. It is the largest hovercraft currently in operation from Griffon’s range with 18-21 tonnes of payload over three separate models. The BHT provides an unparalleled amphibious platform that is configured to environmental and user requirements. The size of these craft mean operators can work further afield by delivering a platform of portable infrastructure payload provides for ballistic protection and mounted equipment to be added without hindering craft usability. With more interior space, vehicles and higher passenger numbers are accommodated.
|
- Recent Developments
Year |
Latest News |
23 September 2023 |
Griffon Hoverwork has unveiled the designation and specifications of its latest model of Landing Craft Air Cushion: The Wyvern. The Wyvern class offers a swift, versatile transport option for global military entities seeking efficient deployment capabilities in various scenarios, including conflict situations, natural calamities, or humanitarian emergencies. |
- Business Strategy
Griffon Hoverwork ltd company follows several business strategies to expand their businesses. Griffon Hoverwork Ltd. has implemented several strategic approaches to enhance its business operations. For instance, the company has focused on diversifying its product portfolio to cater to various market demands. By offering a range of hovercraft models suitable for both military and civilian applications, Griffon Hoverwork has been able to capture a broader customer base and mitigate risks associated with dependency on a single market segment. Additionally, Griffon Hoverwork has prioritized innovation and technology advancement as part of its business strategy. Through continuous research and development efforts, the company has introduced cutting-edge features and improvements in its hovercraft designs, thereby staying ahead of competitors and meeting evolving customer expectations.
Moreover, Griffon Hoverwork has pursued strategic collaborations and partnerships to expand its global presence and market reach. By forming alliances with complementary businesses, government agencies, and international organizations, the company has gained access to new markets, resources, and opportunities for growth.
S.W.O.T Analysis
Strength
- Griffon Hoverwork has a long-standing reputation for manufacturing high-quality hovercraft, backed by decades of experience in the industry.
- The company possesses strong technological capabilities, allowing it to develop innovative hovercraft designs with advanced features.
- The company has a presence in multiple countries and serves customers worldwide, providing it with a broad market reach and revenue streams.
- Griffon Hoverwork offers a diverse range of hovercraft models tailored for various applications, including military, commercial, and search and rescue operations.
Weakness
- Griffon Hoverwork's heavy reliance on military contracts exposes it to fluctuations in defense spending, making its revenue susceptible to geopolitical factors.
- The production of hovercraft involves complex engineering and manufacturing processes, leading to potentially high production costs and pricing challenges.
Opportunity
- There is a growing demand for hovercraft in emerging markets, particularly in regions prone to natural disasters or lacking conventional transportation infrastructure.
- Continued advancements in technology present opportunities for Griffon Hoverwork to develop more efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective hovercraft models, enhancing its competitiveness.
- The company can explore new applications for hovercraft, such as offshore wind farm maintenance, ecotourism, or maritime surveillance, to diversify its revenue streams.
Threats
- Changes in environmental regulations or safety standards may increase compliance costs or restrict the use of hovercraft in certain areas, affecting Griffon Hoverwork's operations.