Aeropsace and Defense Sector: Industry Snapshot

Revenues within the US aerospace and defense industry have improved considerably after a 1.4% slump in spending on commercial aircraft caused by a weakened tourism market in the aftermath of 9/11. Increased spending during the recent Gulf War did buffer industry growth rates somewhat and the industry is expected to reach a value of $464.3 billion in 2004.

Defense expenditure is still the leading source of revenue for the US industry, essentially due to the substantial and ever increasing defense budget of the US Government. Projects such as the missile interception network and the revamp of the US armed forces account for a large proportion of this spending whilst providing welcome revenue boosts for companies such as Boeing during the decline in aerospace spending.

Increasing cost pressures within the aerospace industry have resulted in massive reform as aircraft manufacturers attempt to cut costs whilst producing cost-efficient, highly marketable aircraft to promote sales and stimulate growth within the industry. Growth in defense expenditure has served to compound the problems for the aerospace industry as leading players reduce their aircraft production in order to concentrate their resources on their defense outputs.

Major players within the US aerospace and defense markets include Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics and Raytheon. The initial reaction towards Boeings prototype 7E7, expected to enter service in 2008, has confirmed the huge market potential for midsize, fuel-efficient aircraft in the US whilst proving that cost-effective air travel does not necessarily rely on high capacity aircraft. However, the launch of the new Airbus A380, the worlds largest passenger jet, is expected to impact on the sales volumes of Boeings 747 in the international market.