
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By End Use (Commercial, Government, Research), By Application (Marine Exploration, Environmental Monitoring, Underwater Mapping, Defense and Security, Oil and Gas Exploration), By Technology (Bistatic, Multistatic, Single Aperture, Synthetic Aperture), By Component (Transmitter, Receiver, Processing Unit, Display Unit), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market is projected to grow from USD 0.48 Billion in 2025 to USD 1.21 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 11.4% from 2026 through 2035. The Synthetic Aperture Sonar SAS System Market encompasses advanced underwater acoustic imaging technology that creates high resolution, almost photograph like images of the seafloor and submerged objects by synthesizing a large effective aperture from a smaller physical array. This capability is paramount for various applications including mine countermeasures, hydrographic surveying, seabed mapping, and critical infrastructure inspection. Key market drivers include the escalating need for enhanced underwater surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, particularly within defense and security sectors, driven by rising geopolitical tensions and maritime border disputes. Furthermore, growing investments in offshore oil and gas exploration and production, coupled with the expansion of renewable energy projects such as offshore wind farms, necessitate detailed underwater surveys and inspection, thereby fueling demand for SAS systems. Technological advancements, such as improved signal processing, artificial intelligence integration, and miniaturization of SAS platforms, are also significant growth catalysts.
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035

2025 - 2035
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A significant market trend involves the increasing adoption of unmanned underwater vehicles UUVs and autonomous underwater vehicles AUVs equipped with SAS systems, offering greater operational flexibility, endurance, and reduced human risk in hazardous environments. This integration allows for more efficient and cost effective data acquisition across vast underwater areas. Another important trend is the development of multi frequency SAS systems, which can provide a broader range of imaging capabilities and penetration depths, enhancing their utility for diverse applications. However, the market faces restraints such as the high initial cost of SAS system acquisition and deployment, which can be a barrier for smaller organizations or developing nations. Furthermore, the complexity of data interpretation and the need for highly skilled personnel to operate and maintain these systems pose challenges. Nevertheless, emerging opportunities lie in the expansion of commercial applications, including marine archaeology, environmental monitoring, and aquaculture, where high resolution underwater imaging can provide invaluable insights. The increasing demand for precise underwater navigation and object detection in complex underwater environments also presents a fertile ground for market growth.
North America stands as the dominant region in the global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market, primarily driven by significant defense spending, robust research and development activities, and the presence of several key market players and technological innovators. The region’s strong focus on advanced naval capabilities and sophisticated maritime security solutions contributes substantially to its market leadership. Conversely, Asia Pacific is identified as the fastest growing region, propelled by rapid economic development, increasing investments in naval modernization programs, and the expansion of offshore industries across countries like China, India, and South Korea. Growing awareness regarding maritime security and the need for accurate seabed mapping in the region are also vital growth factors. Key players in this competitive landscape include Saab AB, General Dynamics, Teledyne Technologies, Northrop Grumman, and Thales Group. These companies are actively engaged in strategic initiatives such as product innovation, mergers and acquisitions, and collaborations to strengthen their market position and expand their global footprint, particularly focusing on developing more compact, efficient, and versatile SAS systems for a broader range of platforms and applications.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 0.48 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 1.21 BillionLeading Segment:
Defense and Security (45.8% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
North America (38.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
11.4%
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Emerging Trends and Insights
AI Powered Image Reconstruction Advancements
AI powered image reconstruction is significantly enhancing Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System capabilities. Historically, SAS data suffered from noise and limited resolution due to inherent physical constraints of sound propagation and collection. Sophisticated deep learning algorithms now process raw sonar returns, intelligently filling in missing information and correcting distortions. These advancements allow for the generation of much clearer, higher fidelity acoustic images of the seafloor and submerged objects. Complex terrains and obscured targets are now resolved with unprecedented detail. This trend is driving new applications in underwater mapping, object detection, and autonomous navigation for both defense and commercial sectors, as the actionable intelligence derived from improved imagery provides a distinct operational advantage for synthetic aperture sonar systems.
Miniaturization and Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Integration
Miniaturization is profoundly impacting synthetic aperture sonar SAS, driving the development of compact, lightweight systems. This trend facilitates the integration of high resolution SAS into increasingly smaller autonomous underwater vehicles AUVs. Previously, large SAS systems restricted their deployment to substantial platforms. Now, miniaturized SAS can be seamlessly incorporated into smaller, more agile AUVs. This integration expands the operational scope and accessibility of high resolution underwater imaging and mapping. Smaller AUVs equipped with advanced SAS can navigate complex underwater environments more effectively, performing detailed surveys for scientific research, military applications, and commercial exploration like pipeline inspection or offshore wind farm surveying. The reduced size and power consumption of these combined systems also enable longer mission durations and more cost efficient deployments, accelerating data acquisition and analysis in challenging underwater conditions.
Enhanced Real Time Data Processing Demands
The escalating need for immediate and precise underwater imaging drives enhanced real time data processing demands within the Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System market. Operators require instantaneous situational awareness for diverse applications including mine countermeasures, hydrographic surveying, and critical infrastructure inspection. Traditional post processing methods are insufficient when rapid decision making is paramount. Modern synthetic aperture sonar systems are therefore integrating advanced computational capabilities to process vast data streams from multiple hydrophones in near real time. This allows for immediate reconstruction of high resolution seafloor imagery, obstacle detection, and target classification. The trend emphasizes onboard processing power, efficient algorithms, and low latency data transfer to deliver actionable intelligence directly to users without delay, ultimately improving operational effectiveness and safety in complex maritime environments.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market
Rising Demand for Enhanced Underwater Surveillance and Mapping
Growing global interest in understanding and protecting marine environments is fueling the need for advanced underwater surveillance and mapping. This rising demand stems from diverse applications. Militaries require precise seafloor mapping and target detection for national security and submarine operations. Commercial sectors, including oil and gas exploration, offshore wind farm development, and aquaculture, depend on accurate bathymetric and sub-bottom imaging for site assessment and infrastructure monitoring. Scientific research into oceanography, climate change, and marine biology also benefits significantly from detailed seabed imaging and habitat mapping. Furthermore, the increasing focus on maritime security and counter smuggling efforts necessitates comprehensive underwater monitoring capabilities, all contributing to the escalating demand for synthetic aperture sonar systems.
Technological Advancements in Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Sensor Integration
Technological advancements in autonomous underwater vehicles and sensor integration are propelling the global synthetic aperture sonar system market. AUVs are becoming more sophisticated, capable of extended missions and deeper dives, creating a greater demand for advanced underwater imaging. The integration of high resolution synthetic aperture sonar systems into these autonomous platforms significantly enhances their capabilities for detailed seabed mapping, object detection, and underwater exploration. Innovations in sensor technology, processing power, and data fusion allow for superior image quality and real time analysis, crucial for military, offshore energy, and scientific research applications. This synergy between AUV development and enhanced sensor integration drives the adoption of synthetic aperture sonar for improved underwater situational awareness and operational efficiency.
Increasing Naval Modernization Programs and Defense Spending
Nations globally are intensifying efforts to enhance their maritime defense capabilities, directly fueling demand for advanced sonar systems. This escalating need stems from a complex geopolitical landscape characterized by evolving naval threats, increased maritime domain awareness requirements, and the strategic imperative to project power at sea. Governments are allocating substantial portions of their defense budgets towards acquiring cutting edge technologies to modernize their fleets. Synthetic Aperture Sonar plays a critical role in these modernization initiatives due to its superior imaging resolution and extensive coverage capabilities compared to traditional sonar. It provides unparalleled underwater intelligence for anti submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, and critical seabed mapping, making it an indispensable asset for contemporary naval operations and significantly driving market expansion.
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Restraints
High Initial Investment & Deployment Costs
Developing and deploying advanced Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) systems requires substantial capital. Research and development expenses are significant, covering specialized transducer arrays, sophisticated signal processing algorithms, and robust hardware capable of operating in challenging underwater environments. Manufacturing these high-precision components necessitates specialized facilities and skilled labor, further increasing costs. Integrating these complex systems onto various platforms, such as unmanned underwater vehicles or surface vessels, demands extensive engineering and customization, adding to deployment expenses. The specialized nature of these systems, coupled with rigorous testing and certification processes, contributes to the overall high initial outlay. This substantial upfront financial commitment can deter potential entrants and limit wider adoption of SAS technology.
Regulatory Hurdles and International Cooperation Challenges
Global synthetic aperture sonar system market expansion faces significant headwinds from regulatory hurdles and international cooperation challenges. Developing and deploying sophisticated sonar systems often requires navigating complex national and international regulations concerning frequency allocation, export controls, and environmental impact assessments. Each country may possess unique certification standards and approval processes, creating a fragmented regulatory landscape that complicates market entry and expansion for manufacturers. Furthermore, the dual use nature of many advanced sonar technologies civil and military applications necessitates stringent export controls and licensing requirements. Achieving interoperability and standardization across diverse national defense and maritime agencies demands substantial international collaboration a process frequently hampered by geopolitical sensitivities intellectual property concerns and differing national security priorities. This lack of a harmonized regulatory framework and limited multinational cooperation impede technology transfer hinder joint development initiatives and ultimately slow the broader adoption of these advanced sonar systems.
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Opportunities
High-Resolution SAR Sonar for Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) Integration
The integration of high-resolution Synthetic Aperture Sonar SAR sonar with Autonomous Underwater Vehicles AUVs represents a pivotal opportunity in the global synthetic aperture sonar market, especially across regions like Asia Pacific. This powerful combination enables AUVs to perform exceptionally detailed underwater mapping, inspection, and surveillance missions with unmatched clarity and efficiency. High-resolution SAR sonar significantly enhances traditional sonar capabilities, providing superior imagery for intricate seafloor environments, detecting small objects, and precisely mapping complex structures. AUVs serve as the ideal platform for deploying these sophisticated systems, facilitating prolonged deepwater operations without human intervention. This synergy unlocks vast possibilities for critical applications spanning defense, offshore energy, scientific exploration, and search and recovery. The escalating demand for autonomous platforms delivering precise underwater situational awareness drives innovation and adoption of these integrated SAR sonar solutions, offering enhanced operational capability through cutting edge sensor and platform fusion.
AI-Powered SAR Sonar for Enhanced Subsea Object Classification and Threat Detection
The integration of Artificial Intelligence with Synthetic Aperture Sonar presents a profound opportunity to transform subsea operations. AI algorithms can process SAR sonar's inherently high resolution imagery with unprecedented speed and accuracy, far surpassing human capabilities. This leads to dramatically enhanced subsea object classification, enabling precise identification of submerged structures, geological formations, and marine assets. Crucially, it empowers superior threat detection for naval defense, maritime security, and critical infrastructure protection. From autonomous underwater vehicles mapping energy pipelines to manned submersibles swiftly identifying potential hazards, AI driven SAR sonar significantly reduces false alarms and substantially improves operational efficiency. This advanced capability is increasingly vital for nations expanding their underwater presence and safeguarding vast maritime interests, especially in rapidly developing regions. The accelerating demand for more intelligent, autonomous, and reliable subsea detection systems establishes this as a prime area for substantial innovation and sustained market growth.
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Application
- •Marine Exploration
- •Environmental Monitoring
- •Underwater Mapping
- •Defense and Security
- •Oil and Gas Exploration
By Technology
- •Bistatic
- •Multistatic
- •Single Aperture
- •Synthetic Aperture
By End Use
- •Commercial
- •Government
- •Research
By Component
- •Transmitter
- •Receiver
- •Processing Unit
- •Display Unit
Segment Share By Application
Share, By Application, 2025 (%)
- Marine Exploration
- Environmental Monitoring
- Underwater Mapping
- Defense and Security
- Oil and Gas Exploration

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Why is Defense and Security dominating the Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market?
Defense and Security applications command the largest share due to the critical need for advanced underwater surveillance, mine detection, anti submarine warfare, and port security. Synthetic aperture sonar systems provide high resolution imagery and enhanced target discrimination capabilities essential for modern naval operations and unmanned underwater vehicle missions. The ongoing investment by governments worldwide in maritime security and intelligence gathering significantly propels this segment's leading position.
How does end use segmentation define market demand for synthetic aperture sonar systems?
The End Use segmentation highlights distinct demand drivers with Government and Research sectors often leading in adoption and innovation. Government entities, particularly defense ministries, are primary purchasers for maritime security and intelligence. Research institutions drive technological advancements and explore novel applications, while the Commercial sector leverages these systems for detailed underwater mapping, oil and gas exploration, and marine archaeology, indicating diverse yet specialized market needs.
What role do various components play in the synthetic aperture sonar system market landscape?
Each component is vital for system functionality and market growth. The Transmitter and Receiver units are fundamental for acoustic signal generation and data acquisition, directly impacting performance. The Processing Unit is crucial for converting raw data into high resolution images and actionable intelligence. Finally, the Display Unit offers the visual interface for operators. Advancements in these individual components, especially processing capabilities, drive system efficiency and broader market adoption.
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Regulatory and Policy Environment Analysis
The global Synthetic Aperture Sonar SAS market operates within a complex regulatory and policy landscape. Strict export controls, primarily driven by national security interests, are paramount. Frameworks like the Wassenaar Arrangement and country specific regulations such as the United States International Traffic in Arms Regulations ITAR and European Union dual use item controls critically restrict technology transfer and international sales. Many nations implement robust import and export licensing requirements for advanced defense technologies like SAS, often mandating end user certificates.
Government procurement policies significantly influence market dynamics. These include domestic preference clauses, stringent bidding processes, and long term budget cycles for naval and security acquisitions. International collaborations for defense capabilities also impact market access and technology sharing agreements. Additionally, environmental regulations regarding marine acoustics and national maritime security strategies further shape deployment and operational guidelines for SAS systems globally, ensuring responsible use and compliance with territorial waters laws.
Which Emerging Technologies Are Driving New Trends in the Market?
The Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System market is experiencing dynamic innovation, propelled by advancements in several key areas. Emerging technologies are significantly boosting system performance and utility.
Key innovations include miniaturization of SAS arrays, allowing deployment on smaller unmanned underwater vehicles and autonomous surface vessels, expanding operational flexibility. Enhanced real time processing algorithms are enabling faster data interpretation and immediate decision making. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning is revolutionizing target classification and anomaly detection, dramatically improving accuracy and reducing human analysis workload.
Emerging technologies focus on multi frequency wideband systems for superior penetration and resolution across varied seafloor conditions. Advanced sensor fusion techniques combine SAS data with other sensor inputs for comprehensive environmental understanding. The development of more robust and power efficient transducers is extending mission durations. Furthermore, quantum sensing concepts are being explored for potential breakthroughs in detection range and stealth target identification, promising a new era of underwater mapping and surveillance capabilities. These advancements are critical for meeting evolving demands in defense, oil and gas, and scientific research.
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Regional Analysis
Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market
Trends, by Region

North America Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
North America · 38.2% share
North America holds a dominant position in the global synthetic aperture sonar system market, commanding a significant 38.2% market share. This leadership is primarily driven by substantial defense spending and advanced technological infrastructure within the United States and Canada. Robust government investments in maritime surveillance, anti submarine warfare, and underwater unmanned vehicles further fuel regional demand. The presence of key market players and a thriving research and development ecosystem contribute to continuous innovation and product development. Additionally increasing applications in offshore oil and gas exploration hydrographic surveys and port security bolster North America’s market stronghold. The region consistently adopts cutting edge sonar technologies ensuring its sustained dominance.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 11.2% CAGR
The Asia Pacific region is poised for significant growth in the Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market, projected to be the fastest expanding region with an impressive CAGR of 11.2% during the forecast period of 2026 to 2035. This accelerated expansion is primarily fueled by rising defense expenditures across countries like China India and South Korea. These nations are heavily investing in modernizing their naval capabilities and enhancing maritime surveillance a key application for synthetic aperture sonar systems. Furthermore increasing demand for underwater mapping and resource exploration in the region's vast coastal areas is driving adoption. The growing focus on autonomous underwater vehicles AUVs which frequently integrate synthetic aperture sonar for enhanced imaging and navigation also contributes substantially to this rapid growth trajectory.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea and Arctic regions are driving increased defense spending and naval modernization, directly boosting demand for advanced synthetic aperture sonar (SAS) systems. Maritime domain awareness initiatives by major naval powers, coupled with the need for enhanced underwater reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, are key drivers. Export controls and technology transfer restrictions by leading SAS manufacturers, primarily from NATO countries, shape competitive dynamics and influence market access for emerging players.
Macroeconomic factors influencing the SAS market include defense budget allocations in developed economies and a growing focus on maritime security in developing nations with significant coastlines. Fluctuations in global commodity prices, particularly for oil and gas, can indirectly impact offshore exploration and surveillance budgets, affecting commercial SAS adoption. Government R&D funding for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) incorporating SAS technology is a significant stimulus for innovation and future market expansion.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
Thales Group announced a strategic initiative to significantly increase R&D investment in next-generation high-resolution SAS systems. This move aims to develop advanced algorithms for enhanced object classification and real-time mapping capabilities for both military and commercial applications.
- February 2025
General Dynamics Mission Systems unveiled its new 'Bluefin-21 Advanced' AUV, featuring an integrated cutting-edge Synthetic Aperture Sonar payload. This product launch targets deep-water survey and unexploded ordnance (UXO) detection missions, offering unparalleled image resolution and wider swath coverage.
- November 2024
Saab AB entered into a strategic partnership with Oceaneering International to integrate Saab's advanced SAS technology into Oceaneering's extensive fleet of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). This collaboration aims to provide enhanced subsea inspection and asset integrity monitoring services for the offshore energy sector.
- July 2024
Teledyne Technologies completed the acquisition of a specialized Norwegian company focusing on ultra-compact SAS sensors for smaller autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). This acquisition expands Teledyne's portfolio of miniaturized SAS solutions, catering to emerging demands for highly portable and cost-effective underwater imaging.
Key Players Analysis
Saab, General Dynamics, Teledyne, and Northrop Grumman are key players dominating the synthetic aperture sonar market. They leverage advanced acoustic imaging and signal processing for high-resolution underwater mapping. Strategic initiatives include R&D for enhanced sensor capabilities and integration into autonomous underwater vehicles. Market growth is driven by increasing demand for maritime surveillance, underwater exploration, and defense applications globally.
List of Key Companies:
- Saab AB
- General Dynamics
- Teledyne Technologies
- Northrop Grumman
- Oceaneering International
- Atlas Copco
- Thales Group
- Elbit Systems
- Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
- Lockheed Martin
- Raytheon Technologies
- Kongsberg Gruppen
- Ultra Electronics
- Boeing
- Leonardo S.p.A.
- L3Harris Technologies
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 0.48 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 1.21 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 11.4% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Technology, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Component, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Technology, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Component, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Technology, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Component, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Technology, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Component, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Technology, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Component, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Technology, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Component, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Synthetic Aperture Sonar System Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
