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The global naval shipbuilding market has demonstrated significant resilience and growth potential. According to the latest research, the market size was valued at USD 96,850 million in 2022 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.16% during the forecast period, reaching USD 110,110 million by 2028. This steady growth is indicative of the ongoing investments and advancements in naval capabilities worldwide.
Difference Between Shipbuilding and Naval Shipbuilding
While fundamentally similar, commercial shipbuilding and naval shipbuilding differ in their specifics and demands. Commercial shipbuilding focuses on creating vessels for transporting goods and passengers, prioritizing efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to environmental regulations. In contrast, naval shipbuilding is characterized by its heightened security measures, advanced technological requirements, and stringent governmental regulations.
Naval vessels are designed to operate in hostile environments and must incorporate advanced weaponry, sophisticated radar systems, and robust defensive structures. The use of specialized materials such as composites and stainless steel, alongside traditional steel, further complicates the design and construction processes. Additionally, the financial and operational stakes are higher in naval shipbuilding due to the reliance on a limited number of shipyards and the need to meet precise defense specifications.
Challenges of Naval Shipbuilding
Naval shipbuilding faces several unique challenges:
Security and Specialization
- Security Requirements: Naval shipyards must implement stringent security measures to protect sensitive technologies and designs, leading to increased costs and complex logistics.
- Technological Complexity: Incorporating advanced systems such as weaponry, radar, and stealth technologies requires specialized skills and materials, driving up costs and extending construction timelines.
Design and Flexibility
- Design Challenges: Naval ships must be versatile to adapt to evolving operational requirements and budget constraints. This necessitates a flexible design approach that can accommodate changes without significant delays or cost overruns.
- Operational Flexibility: Ships need to be adaptable to various mission profiles, which adds layers of complexity to their design and construction.
Financial and Logistical Constraints
- Cost Management: The financial burden of naval shipbuilding is significant, with budget overruns and project delays being common. The dependency on a few shipyards exacerbates these issues.
- Logistical Coordination: Coordinating between different stakeholders, including governmental bodies and subcontractors, requires meticulous planning and robust project management.
Global Political Landscape
- Geopolitical Factors: The global security environment influences naval shipbuilding priorities. For example, the Russia-Ukrainian war has prompted increased defense spending and accelerated naval projects in Europe and beyond.
How to Overcome These Challenges and How Hexagon’s Solutions Help
Addressing the challenges in naval shipbuilding requires a multifaceted approach, leveraging advanced technologies and strategic planning.
Digital Transformation
- Smart Digital Reality™: Hexagon offers an end-to-end digital solution that integrates design, construction, and maintenance. By creating digital twins, shipbuilders can simulate and optimize every aspect of the shipbuilding process, from initial design to final delivery.
- Enhanced Visibility and Control: Hexagon’s Enterprise Project Performance (EPP) solution, EcoSys™ provides comprehensive project management capabilities, enabling better risk assessment, cost control, and schedule management.
Advanced Manufacturing Techniques
- Automation and Robotics: Embracing automation and robotics in manufacturing processes can mitigate the skills shortage and enhance precision. Hexagon’s Intergraph Smart® Production integrates seamlessly with various design systems, facilitating efficient production workflows.
- Material Optimization: Using lightweight and durable materials can reduce construction times and improve ship performance. Hexagon’s tools support the use of advanced materials through precise design and fabrication processes.
Collaboration and Integration
- Integrated Solutions: Hexagon’s solutions foster collaboration across disciplines, breaking down silos and ensuring all stakeholders have access to accurate, real-time information. This integration is crucial for managing complex naval projects.
- Global Partnerships: By partnering with leading shipyards and naval contractors, Hexagon ensures its solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs of the naval shipbuilding industry.
Integrated Asset Management
- Solutions such as HxGN EAM provide comprehensive management of naval assets throughout their lifecycle. This ensures that maintenance and upgrades are efficiently managed, extending the operational life of naval vessels.
Conclusion
The naval shipbuilding industry is at a pivotal juncture, facing numerous challenges but also embracing significant technological advancements. By leveraging digital transformation, advanced materials, and sustainable practices, the industry is poised to meet the evolving demands of modern navies. The collaboration between navies and specialized shipbuilders, underpinned by strategic alliances and technological innovations, ensures that the future of naval shipbuilding remains robust and dynamic.
Article written by Ismo Piirainen, with help from Dimitris Servis
