Amphibious Vehicle Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Propulsion (Track-Based, Water Jet), By End Use (Defense Forces, Disaster Management Agencies), By Vehicle, By Application, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Amphibious Vehicle Market Summary

In addition, rising infrastructure development in flood-prone and waterlogged regions is creating strong demand for amphibious excavators and utility vehicles among construction and dredging contractors.However, the market faces a key challenge due to the high production and operational costs associated with developing and maintaining versatile amphibious vehicles. The increasing interest in amphibious transport solutions for tourism and intermodal passenger mobility presents a promising growth opportunity, especially in regions investing in water-based transportation infrastructure.

The ongoing wave of defense modernization is steadily reinforcing demand for advanced armored amphibious vehicles tailored to multi-domain operations. In January 2025, the U.S. Marine Corps accepted delivery of the ACV-Command and Control (ACV-C) variant at Camp Lejeune, designed to function as a mobile battlefield command center. The vehicle improves tactical communication and situational coordination, aligning with the Corps’ Force Design 2030 initiative aimed at enhancing expeditionary warfare capabilities. Globally, similar modernization programs emphasize mobility, survivability, and digitized command infrastructure in amphibious platforms. As legacy fleets are phased out, defense procurement strategies are increasingly centered on modular, network-enabled vehicles capable of both sea and land operations. This has positioned next-generation amphibious armored units as critical assets within modern force structures, driving consistent demand across allied military agencies.

The growing frequency and severity of climate-related disasters are accelerating the deployment of amphibious vehicles for emergency response, particularly in flood-prone regions. According to the Asia-Pacific Disaster Report 2023 by the UN ESCAP, over 140 disaster events occurred across the region in 2022, impacting more than 64 million people and causing economic losses exceeding USD 57 billion. Flooding emerged as the deadliest hazard, responsible for over 4,800 fatalities, primarily in India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, and affecting 33 million people in Pakistan alone. These conditions prompted governments and disaster management agencies to adopt amphibious rescue units capable of navigating submerged or damaged infrastructure during high-impact flood events. Their dual-terrain capability makes them indispensable for delivering relief supplies, evacuating stranded populations, and accessing remote or inundated areas when conventional vehicles fail.

Amphibious tour operations are gaining popularity for offering seamless land-to-water sightseeing experiences. For instance, Amsterdam and Singapore have introduced amphibious buses and boat tours to attract tourists seeking unique, multi-terrain travel. In addition, governments are exploring amphibious shuttles for last-mile connectivity across rivers and coastal zones, where fixed infrastructure is limited or impractical. As urban planners and transport operators seek innovative mobility solutions, amphibious vehicles offer both functional versatility and passenger appeal, supporting growth in commercial and recreational applications.

Amphibious vehicles must meet separate and often conflicting safety, environmental, and technical standards established by both road and maritime authorities. For instance, in the U.S., amphibious vehicles must comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) standards for on-road use and U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations for watercraft. This includes compliance with vehicle crashworthiness, lighting, and emissions standards on land, alongside flotation stability, navigation lighting, and safety equipment mandates on water. Similarly, in Europe, manufacturers face separate homologation requirements under EU vehicle-approval frameworks and inland waterway regulations. These overlapping compliance demands significantly increase development time, testing complexity, and certification costs, especially for commercial and civil operators.

Propulsion Insights

The track-based propulsion segment held the largest revenue share of 51.3% in 2024, driven primarily by its superior mobility and traction in challenging terrains such as mud, swamp, and uneven floodplains. This propulsion enables enhanced off-road performance essential for military amphibious vehicles engaged in rugged combat and tactical operations. In addition, its robust design supports heavy payload capacities, making it ideal for construction and dredging applications in difficult environments where stability and durability are critical.

The water jet propulsion segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2030. This propulsion enables rapid response in disaster relief and amphibious troop deployments where quick, precise navigation is critical. Its superior speed and agility in shallow and coastal waters, enhanced safety due to reduced underwater hazards from minimal draft, and increasing demand for rapid, precise maneuvering in disaster relief and amphibious missions support the segment growth.

Vehicle Insights

The armored amphibious vehicles segment held the largest revenue share in 2024. Growth in this segment is driven by increasing demand for versatile and technologically advanced combat vehicles capable of operating across diverse terrains, enhanced focus on amphibious mobility and survivability, and strategic collaborations for localized production to meet regional defense needs. For instance, in December 2024, ST Engineering and Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering signed an agreement to co-develop an 8×8 amphibious armored vehicle based on the Terrex platform. This partnership includes design and production support, with manufacturing planned in Kazakhstan to fulfill future military deployment requirements, highlighting the segment’s expansion through international collaboration and regional manufacturing capabilities.

The commercial amphibious transport segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. The growth of this segment is mainly attributed to rising consumer demand for versatile vehicles that enable seamless travel across land and water, increasing interest in unique leisure and tourism experiences, and advancements in amphibious vehicle technology, enhancing safety and performance. For instance, in February 2024, H2O Amphibious Inc. launched its next-generation amphibious cars designed for effortless land-to-water transitions. These vehicles mark a significant advancement in consumer mobility, combining automotive and marine capabilities, and underscore the evolving landscape of commercial amphibious transport driven by innovation and growing market appeal.

Application Insights

The military combat & troop transport segment held the largest revenue share in 2024, driven by accelerating military modernization programs focused on replacing legacy vehicles, increasing geopolitical tensions requiring rapid force deployment across diverse terrains, and advancements in vehicle survivability and unmanned system integration. Strategic investments by defense agencies to enhance amphibious assault and littoral combat capabilities are fueling segment growth. Also, growing emphasis on expeditionary warfare and rapid amphibious mobility continues to reinforce the importance of this segment in defense planning worldwide.

The commercial & recreational transport segment is expected to register a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2030, driven by rising consumer interest in versatile vehicles capable of navigating both land and water, expanding tourism activities focused on unique amphibious experiences, and innovations in vehicle design enhancing safety and user convenience. In addition, growing investments in waterfront infrastructure and eco-friendly transport solutions are supporting market growth.

End Use Insights

The defense forces segment held the largest revenue share in 2024, driven by the increased procurement of advanced amphibious vehicles to enhance operational mobility and adaptability across diverse terrains. Growth has been supported by ongoing military modernization initiatives, strategic investments in versatile armored platforms, and heightened geopolitical tensions necessitating enhanced defense readiness. For instance, in January 2024, JSW Group secured a USD 30 million contract from India’s Ministry of Defense to produce 96 Ator N1200 amphibious vehicles based on the Sherp N1200 platform, aimed at strengthening the Indian Army’s amphibious capabilities with deliveries scheduled by June 2024.

The tourism & transport operators segment is expected to register a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2030, owing to the increasing adoption of amphibious vehicles for unique travel experiences and urban mobility solutions. Innovations, including the HafenCity RiverBus in Hamburg, Germany, which operates both on land and water, highlight the rising demand for such versatile transport options. Built on a MAN truck chassis and designed to carry 36 passengers plus crew, this amphibious bus offers combined sightseeing tours and river cruises, enhancing tourist engagement while addressing urban transport challenges. Growing interest in eco-friendly, multimodal travel options is also driving investment and expansion within this segment

Regional Insights

The North America amphibious vehicle industry accounted for 45.8% of the global revenue share in 2024. The market in North America is being driven by increasing defense modernization efforts focusing on enhanced amphibious combat capabilities, rising demand for multi-mission vehicles capable of rapid deployment across land and water, and growing investments in advanced autonomous amphibious platforms. For instance, in January 2024, BAE Systems secured a USD 169 million contract from the U.S. Marine Corps for 33 additional Amphibious Combat Vehicles under full-rate production Lot 2. This contract includes personnel, command, 30mm cannon, and recovery variants developed in partnership with IVECO Defence Vehicles, highlighting ongoing modernization initiatives.

U.S. Amphibious Vehicle Market Trends

The U.S. amphibious vehicle industry held a dominant position in 2024. The market in the U.S. is witnessing significant transformation, driven by expanding international defense partnerships and intensified focus on Indo-Pacific readiness. One key development reinforcing this trend was the approval by the U.S. Department of State in July 2023 of a USD 120.5 million Foreign Military Sale to Romania. The deal included sixteen Assault Amphibious Vehicles (AAVP-7A1), along with command and recovery variants, weapon systems, and related support. This sale aims to bolster Romania’s amphibious assault capabilities while enhancing NATO’s rapid deployment capacity and interoperability with U.S. forces, aligning with Washington’s broader defense and security objectives in Eastern Europe.

In addition, in December 2024, the U.S. Marine Corps’ 4th Marine Regiment conducted its first open-water movement with the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) at Okinawa. This milestone marks a significant transition in the Corps’ operational capability, phasing out the legacy Assault Amphibious Vehicle in favor of enhanced mobility, survivability, and firepower. The deployment reflects broader efforts to adapt U.S. amphibious assets to modern threat environments, particularly within contested littoral zones of the Indo-Pacific. These developments illustrate how procurement strategy, alliance-driven exports, and platform modernization are collectively reshaping the trajectory of the U.S. amphibious vehicle industry.

The amphibious vehicle industry in Canada is driven by the increasing investments in disaster response and emergency preparedness, particularly for flood and wildfire management. In addition, the development of amphibious vehicles suited for remote and Arctic terrains supports the growth in this region.

Mexico amphibious vehicle industry growth is supported by expanding border and coastal security measures, alongside infrastructure development in flood-prone regions. Enhanced government focus on disaster management and rescue operations also bolsters demand for amphibious vehicles in the country.

Asia Pacific Amphibious Vehicle Market Trends

The Asia Pacific amphibious vehicle industry was identified as a lucrative region in 2024. Factors including the rising military expenditures, increasing territorial tensions, and the growing adoption of naval modernization programs are driving the market growth. The strategic focus of several regional powers is on enhancing expeditionary and amphibious assault capabilities amid geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea, East China Sea, and Indian Ocean regions. The market is also being propelled by increasing investments in joint land-sea operations and rapid-response logistics platforms tailored for archipelagic and flood-prone geographies.

In December 2024, China launched its first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, Sichuan, a 40,000-tonne vessel equipped with electromagnetic catapult and arrestor gear for fixed-wing aircraft operations. The platform significantly expands China's long-range amphibious deployment and force projection capabilities, directly influencing demand for advanced amphibious combat vehicles and air-cushioned landing craft to complement such naval assets. In addition, countries including India, Japan, and South Korea are accelerating amphibious force upgrades for island defense, humanitarian missions, and regional deterrence, reinforcing demand for both armored and utility-class amphibious vehicles across the defense sector.

The China amphibious vehicle industry held a substantial market share in 2024. The market in China is experiencing rapid growth, driven by ongoing multi-domain military modernization and increasing emphasis on enhancing maritime operational capabilities. In July 2021, reports from the U.S. Naval Institute (USNI) indicated that the Chinese Navy had modified commercial car ferries such as the Bang Chui Dao to enable the deployment of amphibious armored vehicles. This conversion is part of China's broader strategy to improve rapid deployment capabilities, particularly in relation to potential Taiwan contingencies and maritime security operations in the South China Sea.

In addition, in April 2025, China tested a new amphibious anti-tank missile platform, combining twelve HJ-10 top-attack missiles with the ZTD-05 assault vehicle chassis. This platform is intended to increase mobility and firepower during littoral engagements, improving the nation’s ability to strike armored targets in complex amphibious environments. These developments signal increasing domestic demand for technologically advanced amphibious vehicles, supporting China’s long-term force projection objectives.

The Japanese amphibious vehicle industry held a significant regional share in 2024. In Japan, the market is influenced by sustained investment in force modernization, a strategic pivot toward rapid-response capabilities, and rising regional security concerns in the East China Sea. At the International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) 2024 event, Japan’s Ministry of Defense emphasized its focus on advanced amphibious vehicle development and hybrid propulsion technologies. Central to this is the FAT-R (Future Amphibious Technology - Replacement) program, which aims to phase out legacy AAV-7 platforms with next-generation systems offering improved speed, seaworthiness, and stealth. Backed by the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA), this initiative is expected to directly stimulate domestic demand for high-performance amphibious solutions aligned with Japan’s evolving defense posture.

Europe Amphibious Vehicle Market Trends

The Europe amphibious vehicle industry was identified as a lucrative region in 2024. The European market is witnessing significant transformation, driven by escalating defense modernization efforts, growing investments in amphibious mobility platforms, and a focus on enhancing interoperability among NATO member states. In December 2024, MilDef Group AB secured an approximately USD 7.3 million (SEK 80 million) contract with BAE Systems Hägglunds to supply rugged IT equipment for the amphibious-capable BvS10 tracked vehicles. Scheduled for delivery between 2025 and 2029, this collaboration is set to bolster regional defense capabilities while strengthening critical supply chains within Europe, further propelling market growth.

The German amphibious vehicle industry is being shaped by the increasing defense modernization programs focused on enhancing rapid deployment and multi-domain operational capabilities. Germany’s strategic emphasis on strengthening its Bundeswehr’s amphibious forces aligns with broader NATO commitments to improve readiness in response to evolving security challenges in the Baltic and North Sea regions. Investment in upgraded amphibious platforms, including tracked and wheeled vehicles equipped with advanced communication and navigation systems, is underway. Collaborative projects with European partners are further driving technological innovation and regional defense integration.

The UK amphibious vehicle industry is heavily influenced by the ongoing modernization of the Royal Marines’ amphibious capabilities to support expeditionary and littoral operations. The Ministry of Defense’s investment in interoperability with NATO allies and expanding rapid response forces drives demand for versatile amphibious platforms suitable for both high-intensity conflict and humanitarian missions. The UK also prioritizes the integration of autonomous systems and network-centric warfare capabilities into its amphibious fleet, positioning its forces for future multi-domain operations. Also, the UK’s commitment to sustainable military technologies fosters the development of energy-efficient propulsion solutions within this sector.

Key Amphibious Vehicle Company Insights

Some of the key players operating in the market include BAE Systems plc, General Dynamics Corporation, Rheinmetall AG, and Hanwha Aerospace.

• Founded in 1999 and headquartered in London, UK, BAE Systems plc is a global defense, security, and aerospace company. The company specializes in the design, manufacture, and support of advanced amphibious vehicles, combat systems, and military platforms. It offers a broad portfolio including armored vehicles, naval ships, and cybersecurity solutions. BAE Systems plc operates worldwide, delivering integrated defense solutions and leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as autonomous systems, electronic warfare, and advanced weaponry to support military and government clients.

• Founded in 1952 and headquartered in Virginia, U.S., General Dynamics Corporation is a global aerospace and defense company. The company specializes in amphibious combat vehicles, armored systems, and mission-critical technologies. Its product portfolio includes the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV), ground combat vehicles, marine systems, and IT services. General Dynamics serves defense, government, and commercial customers worldwide, employing advanced engineering, innovation, and integration capabilities to enhance operational effectiveness and force readiness.

Recent Developments

• In April 2025, BAE Systems received a USD 188.5 million contract from the U.S. Marine Corps for 30 ACV-30mm vehicles, including spares and fielding support. The ACV-30 features a 30mm remote turret and supports ship-to-shore and advanced land operations.

• In February 2025, BAE Systems debuted its Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) at the IDEX defense exhibition in the UAE. The ACV, designed for rugged terrain and open-ocean amphibious operations, highlights the program’s goal for international expansion and enhanced operational flexibility for allied militaries worldwide.

• In April 2024, Louisiana-based Metal Shark Boats announced the launch of new 30-foot autonomous surface vehicle combining semi-submersible and amphibious navigation. Designed for US Navy and Marine Corps requirements, the autonomous amphibious surface vehicle (ASV) offers high speed, long range, and simplified launch/recovery, with remote operation capability on land via an electric-drive system.

• In January 2023, Iveco Defence Vehicles (IDV) signed a contract with the Italian Navy to deliver 36 Amphibious Armoured Vehicles (VBA) to the San Marco Marine Brigade. Based on the SUPERAV 8×8 platform, the vehicles include remote turrets, high protection standards, and sea projection capability.

Amphibious Vehicle Market Report Scope

Global Amphibious Vehicle Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global amphibious vehicle market report based on propulsion, vehicle, application, end use, and region:

• Propulsion Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Track-Based Propulsion

  • Water Jet Propulsion

  • Screw Propeller

• Vehicle Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Armored Amphibious Vehicles

  • Amphibious Excavators

  • Light Amphibious Utility Vehicles

  • Commercial Amphibious Transport

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Military Combat & Troop Transport

  • Disaster Response & Humanitarian Aid

  • Construction & Dredging

  • Commercial & Recreational Transport

• End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Defense Forces

  • Disaster Management Agencies

  • Construction & Dredging Contractors

  • Tourism & Transport Operators

  • Government Municipalities

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

    • Japan

    • Australia

    • South Korea

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East & Africa (MEA)

    • UAE

    • Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)

    • South Africa