Naval Procurement in Asia-Pacific: Trends, Budgets and Requirements

The proliferation and volume of threats in South East Asian waters is becoming ever more diverse. Border control with illegal immigration, the smuggling of illicit goods and arms, piracy, kidnapping for ransom, human trafficking, the drugs trade and illegal fishing are all pressing concerns for governments and maritime organisations in the region.

In addition to the increase in non-traditional threats, such as the smuggling of narcotics, together with the growing military might of China, it’s never been more important for the countries in SE Asia to expand and maintain a robust maritime security presence. Not only this, but nations in the region – including their Navies and the often numerous Coast Guard organisations – must also begin to work together towards common goals to neutralise these threats.

Offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) are the most in-demand platform globally and represent the fastest growing segment of the naval market. The total number of OPVs in operation worldwide increased from 681 to 776 in the last year. Of that total, Asia makes up the largest portion of the OPV holdings accounting for 44%. The region also has the largest portion of OPVs on order (46%). Japan and India have 50% of the Asian vessels between them, while India alone has 26% of the total vessels on order worldwide.

Key priorities for maritime agencies in the region centre around interoperability of equipment and increased information sharing. The development of trust between international bodies is therefore vital to engender better cooperation and allow wider access to the SE Asia common operating picture.

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