Digital Shipyard Market Size and Technology Trends Forecast, 2021–2028
- Rishika Chavan
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
According to Fortune Business Insights™, the global digital shipyard market was valued at USD 963.6 million in 2020 and is projected to grow from USD 1,129.6 million in 2021 to USD 3,444.5 million by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 17.27% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by rising demand for modernization in shipbuilding, adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, and a growing shift toward automation and operational efficiency in the global maritime industry.
Market Overview
Digital shipyards represent a transformative evolution in shipbuilding, utilizing advanced technologies like IoT, AI, robotics, digital twins, and additive manufacturing to replace traditional production methods. These innovations allow for real-time decision-making, life-cycle optimization, and greater production agility.
The deployment of cyber-physical systems (CPS) and robotic process automation (RPA) in shipyards worldwide is improving precision, reducing manufacturing costs, and accelerating delivery schedules. As global maritime trade expands and naval fleets modernize, demand for digital shipyards is increasing rapidly.
Key Market Insights
Digital shipyards leverage 3D modeling, digital twin simulations, IoT-enabled sensors, and AI to streamline ship design, maintenance, and operations.
Leading shipbuilders are turning to predictive analytics and automated systems to improve efficiency and safety.
In December 2019, Navantia selected Siemens Digital Industries Software to fully digitalize its shipbuilding operations in Spain.
Key Companies Profiled
IFS AB (Sweden)
Pemamek Oy (Finland)
Dassault Systèmes (France)
BAE Systems (UK)
Altair Engineering Inc. (U.S.)
AVEVA Group Plc. (UK)
Wärtsilä (Finland)
KUKA AG (Germany)
Damen Shipyards Group (Netherlands)
Prostep AG (Germany)
Source:
Market Segmentation Overview
By Shipyard Type, commercial shipyards held the largest market share in 2020, driven by the growing demand for global seaborne trade, which accounts for nearly 80% of global trade volume according to UNCTAD. This increase in maritime logistics has accelerated the need for efficient, large-scale ship production, contributing to the digital transformation trend within the shipbuilding sector. Military shipyards are also showing notable growth trends, supported by rising government investments in smart shipbuilding technologies, including the use of digital twins for naval applications.
By Technology Platform, robotic process automation (RPA) accounted for the largest market share in 2020 and continues to dominate the digital shipyard market. The adoption of RPA streamlines key shipyard operations such as welding, coating, and component assembly. Other emerging technologies—such as additive manufacturing (3D printing), artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and blockchain—are gaining traction and expected to drive future market growth.
By Digitalization Level, semi-digital shipyards captured the highest share in 2020 due to increasing industry awareness and efforts to modernize traditional shipbuilding workflows. However, fully digital shipyards are forecast to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The integration of advanced technologies such as Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), augmented reality (AR), and digital twin platforms is accelerating the shift toward fully digitized shipyard ecosystems.
Market Growth Drivers
The digital shipyard market is witnessing strong growth, primarily driven by the integration of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). This technology is transforming traditional shipbuilding by leveraging real-time data, advanced sensors, and machine learning algorithms to optimize productivity, minimize equipment downtime, and improve workplace safety. As shipbuilders prioritize efficiency and operational visibility, the adoption of IIoT is expected to significantly influence market size and growth trends over the forecast period.
Another key driver is the rising use of robotics in shipbuilding operations. Major global players such as Hyundai Heavy Industries, Samsung Heavy Industries, and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering are increasingly deploying robotic technologies across welding, painting, and assembly lines. This shift is not only reducing labor costs and shortening production cycles but is also enhancing precision and quality. The growing trend toward automation is poised to further expand the market share of digitally advanced shipyards through 2032.
Restraining Factors
High Initial Capital Requirements
The cost of digital transformation—including hardware, software, integration, and ongoing maintenance—poses a significant challenge for small and mid-sized shipbuilders. These costs can delay return on investment and limit market penetration among smaller players.
Emerging Market Trends
Surge in Additive Manufacturing
Advanced 3D printing technologies now allow shipyards to fabricate metal components on-site, cutting repair times and costs. Additive manufacturing is emerging as a game-changer for part replacement and prototype development.
AI-Powered Smart Shipyards
In September 2024, ST Engineering launched an AI-driven shipyard in Singapore, featuring 5G infrastructure, predictive maintenance, and IoT-based safety monitoring, illustrating the shift toward smart maritime infrastructure.
Regional Insights
Asia Pacific
Accounted for USD 323.3 million in 2020.
Expected to hold the largest market share throughout the forecast period due to the dominance of regional shipbuilders such as DSME, CSIC, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
Over 90% of global cargo ships are built in South Korea, Japan, and China.
Europe
Witnessing steady growth as leading shipbuilders increase investments in automated robotics, digital platforms, and 3D visualization tools.
North America
Anticipated to grow due to robust R&D activity by key players like Altair Engineering and strategic digitalization projects led by naval contractors.
Middle East, Africa, and South America
Slower growth but improving prospects as governments in these regions explore naval fleet modernization and local shipbuilding investments.
Recent Industry Developments
June 2021 – Drydocks World launched a digital transformation initiative using IFS Cloud, enhancing asset management and operational efficiency.
October 2021 – Dassault Systèmes upgraded its 3DEXPERIENCE platform, enabling real-time collaboration in ship design.
February 2021 – Navantia expanded its partnership with Siemens to implement digital twin technologies in Spanish naval programs.
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