Afterburner Market By Engine Type (Turbofan Engines, Turbojet Engines), By Application (Air Superiority Fighters, Light Fighters, Others), By End-User Industry (Military Aviation, Commercial Aviation), and By Region; Global Insights & Forecast (2023 – 2030)

As per Intent Market Research, the Afterburner Market was valued at USD 39.2 Billion in 2024-e and will surpass USD 53.3 Billion by 2030; growing at a CAGR of 5.3% during 2025-2030.

The afterburner market plays a critical role in enhancing the thrust and performance of high-speed military aircraft. These systems, primarily used in fighter jets, enable supersonic flight by injecting additional fuel into the jet pipe downstream of the turbine, significantly increasing thrust output. As military forces worldwide invest in next-generation fighter aircraft, the demand for advanced afterburners is poised for significant growth.

Turbofan Engines Segment is Largest Owing to Their Extensive Use in Modern Fighters

Turbofan engines dominate the afterburner market due to their widespread application in modern fighter jets such as the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II. These engines offer a balanced mix of fuel efficiency and high thrust, making them ideal for both air superiority and multirole combat aircraft. Nations investing in advanced stealth aircraft prioritize turbofan engines for their ability to provide enhanced performance without compromising range.

Additionally, the growing focus on next-generation fighter jets, particularly in the U.S. and Europe, is driving significant advancements in turbofan engine technology. Companies like Pratt & Whitney and Rolls-Royce are actively developing more efficient and powerful afterburning turbofans, ensuring continued dominance in this segment.

Turbojet Engines Segment is Fastest Growing Owing to Legacy Fighter Upgrades

Although turbofan engines dominate, the turbojet segment is experiencing rapid growth, primarily due to ongoing modernization programs for legacy fighter aircraft. Many nations still operate older fighter jets like the MiG-21 and F-5, which rely on turbojet engines with afterburners. Upgrading these engines with more efficient afterburners enhances thrust performance, extending the operational lifespan of these aircraft.

Emerging defense markets in Asia and the Middle East are heavily investing in modernizing their existing fleet rather than procuring entirely new aircraft. This trend is fueling demand for turbojet afterburners, with manufacturers focusing on improving thermal efficiency and reducing infrared signatures for better stealth capabilities.

Air Superiority Fighters Segment is Largest Owing to High Demand for Advanced Combat Jets

The air superiority fighter segment represents the largest application of afterburners, driven by the need for superior combat capabilities in contested airspace. Aircraft such as the Su-57, F-15EX, and J-20 rely heavily on high-performance afterburners to engage in high-speed dogfights, intercept enemy aircraft, and maintain aerial dominance.

Major defense programs across the U.S., China, and Europe are investing in air superiority fighters to counter emerging threats. The development of sixth-generation fighters, such as the U.S. Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, is expected to drive further innovation in afterburner technology, solidifying this segment’s dominance.

North America is the Largest Region Owing to Extensive Defense Investments

North America leads the global afterburner market, primarily due to significant investments in advanced fighter jets and propulsion technologies. The U.S. Air Force and Navy operate one of the largest fleets of afterburner-equipped aircraft, including the F-35, F-22, and F/A-18 Super Hornet. Additionally, major aerospace companies like GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, and Honeywell Aerospace drive innovation in afterburner development.

The U.S. Department of Defense’s consistent funding for next-generation fighter programs ensures that the region maintains its leadership in afterburner technology. Strategic collaborations between government agencies and private manufacturers further accelerate advancements in fuel efficiency, thrust performance, and stealth capabilities.

Competitive Landscape and Key Players

The afterburner market is highly competitive, with key players including Rolls-Royce, GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, Safran, and MTU Aero Engines AG. These companies focus on continuous innovation, integrating advanced materials and thermal management solutions to enhance afterburner performance.

Strategic partnerships, military contracts, and technological advancements remain central to gaining a competitive edge. With growing defense budgets and an increasing emphasis on next-generation propulsion systems, the afterburner market is set to witness sustained growth and innovation in the coming years.

Competitive Landscape

The aerospace landing gear market is highly competitive, with several leading global companies, including Safran Landing Systems, UTAS (United Technologies Aerospace Systems), and Liebherr Aerospace, at the forefront of the market. These companies dominate due to their long-standing presence, technological innovations, and strong partnerships with OEMs and MRO providers. Additionally, players like Meggitt PLC, Héroux-Devtek Inc., and General Electric continue to expand their product offerings, focusing on high-performance, lightweight landing gear systems that meet the growing demand for fuel-efficient aircraft.

The competitive landscape is also shaped by strategic collaborations, joint ventures, and acquisitions, as companies seek to enhance their technological capabilities and expand their market reach. As the market continues to grow, key players are focusing on innovations related to hydraulic and electric landing gear systems, as well as the integration of more advanced materials such as composites and titanium alloys to reduce weight and improve performance.

List of Leading Companies:

• Rolls-Royce plc
• GE Aviation
• Pratt & Whitney
• Honeywell Aerospace
• Aviadvigatel
• SE Ivchenko-Progress
• Safran
• Eurojet
• JSC "Klimov" — United Engine Corporation
• MTU Aero Engines AG
• Kawasaki Heavy Industries
• IHI Corporation
• Motor Sich
• Turbomeca
• Williams International

Recent Developments:

• Rolls-Royce announced advancements in afterburner design, aiming to enhance thrust capabilities for future military aircraft.
• GE Aviation has entered a collaboration to develop cutting-edge afterburner systems tailored for next-generation fighter jets.
• Pratt & Whitney received a contract to upgrade afterburner components in the F-35 Lightning II, enhancing its supersonic performance.
• Honeywell unveiled a new afterburner design focused on reducing fuel consumption while maintaining high thrust output.
• Safran and MTU Aero Engines AG have formed a joint venture to develop advanced afterburner technologies for European defense projects.

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