Advancing Digital Evolution in the Aerospace & Defense Industry: Analyzing Technology Trends for 2024

In the face of ongoing uncertainty, aerospace and defense companies must adapt and maintain stability. Utilizing emerging technologies presents one solution to drastically revamp their processes and provide value to clients.

The aerospace and defense industry is expected to see several significant technology and innovation trends, as outlined in the Aerospace Industries Association’s Vision for 2050 (https://www.aia-aerospace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Whats-Next-for-Aerospace-and-Defense.pdf).

Upcoming Developments in the Aerospace Sector by 2024

The aerospace industry has been aware of the following trends for quite some time. However, due to the extensive implementation process, these trends are expected to remain relevant for many years, possibly even decades. Furthermore, as technology continues to advance, its application in the aerospace industry becomes increasingly varied. Let us examine some of the key emerging technologies in the aerospace field.

1. Enabling the Reduction of Carbon Emissions

The aerospace industry is facing one of its toughest challenges – the trend of decarbonization. With the implementation of various initiatives to combat the negative impact of carbon emissions on the environment, such as the European Green Deal, this trend is expected to persist for the next few decades. While progress has been made in reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions, Scope 3 emissions (which are produced during flight) pose a greater challenge as they are harder to control. Therefore, it is predicted that aerospace companies will continue their journey towards decarbonization in 2024, utilizing the latest technologies and prioritizing improvements in both technology and operations to address sustainability concerns.

2. AI

The aerospace industry is witnessing a significant rise in the application of artificial intelligence, making it one of the top trends in the field. This innovative technology enables A&D companies to revolutionize their manufacturing procedures, enhance safety measures, and streamline customer service and system management. Additionally, AI has the ability to solve intricate issues at a faster pace than humans, aiding in efficient decision-making and eliminating the possibility of human errors.

The use of artificial intelligence is widespread in the aerospace industry, particularly in areas such as air traffic control, manufacturing, pilot training, and fuel optimization. A notable company in the Aerospace AI field is Beacon AI, which utilizes deep learning techniques to improve the safety of both private and commercial flights. This involves the integration of an AI assistant that works alongside the pilot during flights, reducing the chances of human error and increasing overall operational efficiency.

3. Three-Dimensional Printing

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing (AM), is the method of producing three-dimensional items using digital 3D or CAD models. This involves adding layers of materials until the desired object is formed. Presently, the aerospace and defense sector is one of the biggest adopters of additive manufacturing. It is utilized in constructing rocket structures, developing rocket engines, enhancing spacesuit designs for astronauts, expediting the production of commercial aircrafts, and more.

One of the key benefits of using additive manufacturing in the aerospace industry is its ability to enhance manufacturing efficiency through rapid prototype development. This technology also allows for the creation of lighter components for aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites. This advantage is particularly valuable in the current context of post-pandemic production increases in the aerospace field, as it enables manufacturers to lower production costs, improve fuel efficiency, and gain a competitive edge.

4. Next-Level Air Transportation

The concept of Advanced Air Mobility, also known as aerial mobility, is a groundbreaking strategy for enhancing urban transportation. It involves utilizing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) flying cars and cargo drones. This innovative technology has been rapidly advancing in the field of aerospace, with various organizations conducting extensive research and development and currently conducting vehicle testing.

The year 2024 is expected to bring significant changes to the field of advanced air mobility. For instance, Volocopter has already created three types of aircraft that are suitable for Urban Air Mobility: the VoloCity air taxi, VoloRegion long-haul passenger aircraft, and VoloDrone heavy-lift cargo drone. In 2024, Volocopter plans to launch commercial flights and offer an all-electric air mobility service for the Olympic Games in Paris.

5. Technologies that Provide an Immersive Experience

Immersive technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality, allow for the integration of digital information onto real-world objects. These technologies are commonly used in the aerospace industry for the following objectives:

  • Training for employees in the aerospace industry.
  • Maintenance and repair of aircraft.

6. Cutting-Edge Satellite Technology

The utilization of satellites is gaining traction and is projected to expand in the year 2024 and beyond. This can be attributed to the decrease in costs for launching satellites and the growing demand for geospatial intelligence and satellite imagery. Additionally, the widespread usage of the Internet of Things and the necessity for worldwide connectivity are driving the progressive advancement of satellite technologies.

7. The Blockchain

In the aerospace and defense industry, a significant trend and persistent obstacle is the attainment of robustness in intricate supply chains. This is a crucial aspect that allows manufacturers to stay competitive and reduce their potential losses. Blockchain technology can be utilized to address this issue as it enables secure sharing of information and promotes network resilience. As a result, aerospace manufacturers can improve their understanding of supply chains and effectively manage potential risks, leading to increased efficiency in their supply chain operations.

The application of technological advancements in the aerospace industry has resulted in the emergence of some popular trends that are expected to significantly influence its development in the upcoming year and beyond. These trends are crucial for companies to effectively tackle challenges in the aerospace field. Let us now delve into the major trends in the defense industry.

Technology Trends in the Digital Transformation of the Defense Industry

1. AI (Artificial Intelligence)

As previously mentioned, the aerospace and defense industry is experiencing a surge in the implementation of AI. This indicates that there will be an increase in successful applications of AI in various areas. AI is currently utilized in the defense field for tasks such as military training, developing advanced weaponry, surveillance operations, and cybersecurity. It also has the potential to replace soldiers in certain military operations, reducing the risk of casualties. Here is a breakdown of the various applications of AI in more detail:

The military is currently utilizing AI-powered autonomous weapons and vehicle systems, such as crewless vehicles and submarines. However, the replacement of soldiers on the battlefield with AI technology is not yet widely implemented. Command and control systems are being transformed through real-time data analysis, enabling more informed decision-making. AI also allows for the ability to predict equipment failure through predictive maintenance. Cyber threats can be detected and mitigated by analyzing network traffic, identifying vulnerabilities, and responding quickly to cyber attacks. Military personnel can also be trained using AI-driven simulations and virtual environments. With its ability to process large amounts of data, AI can increase situational awareness for intelligence and surveillance purposes. Finally, AI can also support decision-making in the military.

2. Manufacturing through Additive Processes

Additive manufacturing has proven to be highly beneficial for the defense sector, as it is utilized for various purposes.

  • Utilizing 3D printing technology to replace outdated vehicle and military aircraft components.
  • In particular, this is applicable to Air Forces that adopt the practice of Boeing and Airbus by using 3D printing to produce essential parts instead of traditional manufacturing methods. This approach is significantly quicker and more cost-effective for creating these vital components.

3. Sophisticated Military Gear

As digital technologies continue to advance, the complexity of defense equipment also increases, with the integration of directed energy and hypersonic weapons. An example of this is the US Department of Defense’s efforts towards developing hypersonic missiles (https://www.cbo.gov/publication/58924#:~:text=Air%20is%20necessary%20for%20control,glide%20missiles%20and%20cruise%20missiles.). Additionally, in order to meet the goal of achieving net-zero emissions, the defense industry is actively seeking methods to utilize electric propulsion and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fuels, in order to reduce their carbon footprint.

Military Internet of Things

The utilization of the Internet of Military Things has the potential to greatly impact military operations. This interconnected system of devices, technologies, and the internet allows for increased automation, enhanced decision-making, and secure real-time data sharing. With the IoMT, soldiers and equipment are equipped with sensing and computing devices to gather various types of data. As a result, tanks, ships, drones, soldiers, and operating bases are all connected in a network, leading to improved situational awareness and quicker and more efficient decision-making. It is predicted that future advancements and uses of the IoMT will involve the integration of sensors, vehicles, robots, and weapons.

Robotics and Self-Governing Systems

The military industry can greatly benefit from the utilization of robotics and autonomous systems. These advanced technologies allow for a heightened level of situational awareness and alleviate the physical and mental burdens on soldiers, ultimately enhancing military conflicts. With their versatility in both land and sea operations, they enable greater freedom of movement while simultaneously decreasing risks for soldiers. For instance, these systems can aid in tasks such as landmine removal, disposal of explosive ordnance, search and rescue missions, and underwater navigation and surveillance.

Technologies that Provide an Immersive Experience

One of the key benefits of utilizing immersive technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality, is their application in military training for equipment, flight, and weapons. By incorporating AR into soldier training, a safer environment can be created, offering a diverse range of terrain and customizable options, along with improved access to mission rehearsals and heightened spatial awareness. Similarly, fighter pilots can also utilize AR for training, as it can simulate potential threats they may encounter in combat. Such immersive technologies have the potential to increase the effectiveness of soldiers, with features like wearable glasses providing them with a wealth of data to aid in decision-making.

Attaining Cyber Security

The defense sector continues to prioritize cybersecurity due to its significant impact and consistent presence as an ongoing trend. With the rise in frequency of cyber-attacks, defense organizations are increasingly vulnerable. As they incorporate advanced technologies, the urgency for cybersecurity also intensifies, particularly with the storage and sharing of large quantities of data. However, beyond defensive measures, the military is also actively developing offensive cyber warfare tactics such as malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.

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