Global helicopter market to suffer from the cutbacks in Iraq and Afghanistan

The global helicopter market experienced an excellent growth rate over the past five years and has been forecast to continue to do so through to 2017, when it has been forecast to hit a market value of $24.7billion

Military helicopters play a vital role for armed forces throughout the world, aiding ground and naval troops within varying combat and humanitarian scenarios.

The extensive range of helicopters produced worldwide reflects their diverse use within military operations, and as such, the military helicopter market is one characterised by dynamism and response to emerging operational challenges.

Given the importance of helicopters to militaries, a robust market for military helicopters is expected over the next decade, as multiple nations seek to upgrade their air capabilities. The US predictably spends the most on military helicopters as these aircraft are in great demand in its military operations.

However, the end of combat operations in Iraq in 2011 and the planned withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2014 could signal a dampening in demand.

Away from Western military helicopter markets, several countries in Asia and the Middle East are embarking on significant military helicopter acquisition and upgrade programmes that will boost overall global demand for rotorcraft.

Nations such as South Korea, India, China, Turkey and Saudi Arabia have major plans to develop their helicopter fleets, and spending within these national helicopter markets is expected to reflect the emerging growth and military power of the Asian continent.

For more information on the global helicopter market, see the latest research: Global Helicopter Market

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