Global Water Bomber Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By Type (Single Engine, Multi Engine, Seaplane), By End Use (Government, Private Sector, Non-Profit Organizations), By Water Capacity (Less than 2000 Gallons, 2000 to 4000 Gallons, More than 4000 Gallons), By Application (Firefighting, Rescue Operations, Surveillance), 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 Water Bomber Market is projected to grow from USD 2.95 Billion in 2025 to USD 5.41 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.4% from 2026 through 2035. The global water bomber market encompasses the manufacturing, sales, and servicing of specialized aircraft designed for aerial firefighting and other water delivery applications. These aircraft are crucial assets in combating wildfires, which are increasing in frequency and intensity worldwide due to climate change, human activity, and expanding wildland urban interfaces. The market is primarily driven by the escalating global demand for effective wildfire suppression technologies. Additionally, advancements in aircraft technology, including enhanced payload capacity, extended flight range, and improved operational efficiency, are contributing to market expansion. The dominant segment within this market is firefighting, underscoring the critical role water bombers play in protecting lives, property, and natural resources. However, the market faces restraints such as the high initial acquisition costs of these specialized aircraft and the significant operational and maintenance expenses. Stringent aviation regulations and the need for highly trained personnel also present challenges.
Global Water Bomber Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035
2025 - 2035
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A key trend shaping the market is the increasing adoption of multi-mission aircraft, capable of performing various roles beyond just firefighting, such as surveillance and cargo transport, thereby maximizing their utility. There is also a growing focus on integrating advanced avionics and data analytics into water bombers to optimize their performance and enhance decision-making during firefighting operations. Furthermore, the development of unmanned aerial vehicles UAVs capable of water bombing missions presents a nascent but promising opportunity, potentially offering cost-effective and safer alternatives for specific scenarios. Opportunities also lie in developing sustainable aviation fuels and electric propulsion systems for water bombers, aligning with global efforts towards decarbonization and environmental responsibility. Strategic partnerships between manufacturers and firefighting agencies, along with government investments in bolstering aerial firefighting fleets, are also expected to fuel market growth.
North America stands as the dominant region in the global water bomber market, driven by its extensive wildland areas, a high incidence of wildfires, and well-established aerial firefighting infrastructure. The region benefits from significant investments in advanced firefighting equipment and a strong presence of key market players. Asia Pacific is identified as the fastest growing region, attributed to increasing urbanization encroaching on forested areas, rising awareness of wildfire threats, and governments in countries like Australia and India bolstering their aerial firefighting capabilities. Key players in this market include Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation, Conair Group, Air Tractor, Vector Aerospace, AirSprint, Piper Aircraft, Bae Systems, Textron Aviation, Dhruva Aerospace, and Philippine Aerospace Development Corporation. These companies are actively engaged in product innovation, strategic acquisitions, and expanding their geographical footprint to capitalize on emerging market opportunities. Their strategies often involve developing more efficient and versatile aircraft, offering comprehensive service and support packages, and forging collaborations with governmental and private entities involved in disaster management.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 2.95 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 5.41 BillionLeading Segment:
Firefighting (87.4% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
North America (45.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
6.4%
What is Water Bomber?
A water bomber is an aircraft specially designed to combat wildfires by dropping large quantities of water or fire retardant. These vital machines can scoop water from lakes or oceans in mere seconds while in flight, or be loaded on the ground. Their primary mission is to create firebreaks or directly douse flames, protecting lives, property, and natural environments from devastating blazes. Water bombers represent a crucial aerial firefighting asset, playing a significant role in limiting the spread and intensity of wildland fires across the globe. They are indispensable tools in modern fire suppression strategies.
What are the Trends in Global Water Bomber Market
AI Enhanced Mission Planning
Hybrid Electric Aircraft Adoption
Satellite Based Sensor Integration
Modular Payload System Versatility
Predictive Maintenance Analytics
AI Enhanced Mission Planning
AI Enhanced Mission Planning is revolutionizing water bomber operations by significantly improving speed and precision. Traditionally, flight paths and resource deployment relied on human analysis of static data like maps and weather forecasts. Now, sophisticated algorithms process real time information including fire intensity, wind direction, fuel levels, and terrain.
This allows for dynamic recalculation of optimal flight paths for water drops, minimizing travel time and maximizing efficiency. AI analyzes countless variables simultaneously, identifying the most effective drop points and trajectories to suppress fires faster and more accurately. It also optimizes resupply routes for water tankers, ensuring quicker turnarounds. This translates to reduced operational costs, improved safety for pilots by avoiding unpredictable hazards, and ultimately, more effective wildfire containment. The trend reflects a shift towards proactive, data driven decision making in aerial firefighting.
Hybrid Electric Aircraft Adoption
Hybrid electric aircraft adoption in the global water bomber market is emerging as a significant trend, driven primarily by operational efficiency and environmental considerations. Traditional turbine powered water bombers incur substantial fuel costs and contribute to a carbon footprint. Hybrid electric systems offer enhanced endurance and reduced noise during fire suppression missions, critical for extended operations and minimizing disturbance to wildlife. The ability to potentially operate from shorter runways and utilize existing infrastructure with less demanding power requirements further influences this shift. Water bomber operators are evaluating these technologies for their potential to lower long term operational expenses and meet growing global demands for sustainable aviation practices in wildfire management. This trend reflects a broader industry movement towards greener and more cost effective aerial firefighting solutions.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Water Bomber Market
Escalating Wildfire Frequency and Intensity
Aging Global Water Bomber Fleet Replacements
Technological Advancements in Aerial Firefighting
Increased Government Spending on Disaster Preparedness
Expansion of Forested Areas and Urban-Wildland Interface
Escalating Wildfire Frequency and Intensity
Escalating wildfire frequency and intensity significantly drives the global water bomber market. Climate change contributes to longer, hotter dry seasons, creating ideal conditions for more frequent and severe blazes across continents. These intensified wildfires cause greater devastation, threatening lives, property, and natural resources. Governments and private organizations are increasingly investing in aerial firefighting capabilities to combat these growing threats. The need for rapid, effective suppression of these large scale, fast spreading fires directly translates into heightened demand for advanced water bombers, their specialized equipment, and related support services. This urgent necessity to mitigate widespread wildfire destruction is a primary catalyst for market expansion.
Aging Global Water Bomber Fleet Replacements
The current global fleet of water bombers is experiencing significant wear and tear due to continuous operation, particularly in regions prone to wildfires. Many existing aircraft are decades old, approaching or exceeding their intended service life, and are becoming increasingly expensive to maintain. This aging infrastructure leads to reduced reliability, higher operational costs, and potential safety concerns. Consequently, there is a pressing need for direct replacements to ensure adequate aerial firefighting capabilities worldwide. Governments and fire management agencies recognize the critical role these aircraft play in combating increasingly frequent and intense wildfires, driving demand for modern, efficient, and reliable water bombers to update and expand their aerial assets.
Technological Advancements in Aerial Firefighting
Technological advancements are revolutionizing aerial firefighting, propelling the global water bomber market forward. Innovations in aircraft design lead to more efficient, longer-range water bombers capable of delivering larger payloads with greater precision. Enhanced avionics and navigation systems improve pilot situational awareness and safety, particularly in challenging environments. Development of lightweight, durable materials allows for increased maneuverability and reduced operational costs. Furthermore, integration of sophisticated sensors and real-time data analytics optimizes water drop strategies and resource deployment. These technological strides directly translate to more effective fire suppression, reducing damage and saving lives. The ongoing pursuit of cutting-edge solutions fuels the demand for advanced water bomber platforms globally.
Global Water Bomber Market Restraints
Geopolitical Restrictions on Cross-Border Water Bomber Deployment
Geopolitical restrictions significantly hinder the global water bomber market by creating complex barriers to cross border deployment. Nations, prioritizing national sovereignty and security concerns, often impose stringent regulations on foreign military or paramilitary asset movements, which includes fire fighting aircraft. This necessitates lengthy diplomatic negotiations and a web of bilateral agreements, which are often subject to political fluctuations and regional tensions. Permission for foreign water bombers to operate within a country's airspace and territory is not a given, especially during emergencies. This unpredictability and need for specific, often delayed, governmental consent limits the rapid and flexible allocation of these crucial resources, impacting international fire suppression capabilities and the broader market's operational reach.
Limited Public and Private Sector Investment in Water Bomber Fleet Expansion
Governments and private entities are hesitant to pour substantial capital into expanding water bomber fleets. This reluctance stems from several factors. High acquisition costs for new aircraft, coupled with the significant expense of training pilots and maintaining existing fleets, make further investment a difficult proposition. Economic uncertainties and competing budgetary demands often push water bomber expansion lower on the priority list. Furthermore, the specialized nature of these aircraft means a limited resale market, adding to the financial risk for investors. Without guaranteed long term contracts or significant government subsidies, private companies see little incentive to shoulder the considerable financial burden of manufacturing or purchasing additional water bombers. This scarcity of funding directly impedes fleet growth and the overall development of the global water bomber market.
Global Water Bomber Market Opportunities
Accelerated Demand for Advanced Water Bombers Driven by Intensifying Global Wildfire Seasons
Global wildfire seasons are becoming more intense, frequent, and widespread, creating an urgent and expanding need for specialized aerial firefighting assets. This critical environmental shift directly drives an accelerated demand for advanced water bombers. Countries are increasingly facing unprecedented fire threats that overwhelm traditional ground based firefighting methods. Consequently, governments and emergency services worldwide are prioritizing substantial investments in sophisticated airborne solutions capable of rapid deployment, precise water or retardant delivery, and extended operational endurance. Manufacturers focusing on next generation aircraft featuring enhanced payload capacity, improved speed, greater range, and superior fire suppression technology stand to benefit significantly. The imperative to protect lives, property, and vital ecosystems from devastating blazes ensures a robust and sustained market for these specialized aerial platforms, particularly in regions experiencing escalating fire risks, such as Asia Pacific. This heightened urgency translates into substantial growth prospects for innovators in the advanced water bomber sector.
Emerging Market for Hybrid-Electric and AI-Enhanced Aerial Firefighting Systems
The global water bomber market presents a significant opportunity in emerging hybrid-electric and AI enhanced aerial firefighting systems. Escalating wildfire frequencies and intensities worldwide, particularly in rapidly developing regions like Asia Pacific, necessitate more sophisticated and sustainable solutions. This demand creates a powerful impetus for innovation beyond traditional aircraft.
Hybrid electric propulsion offers substantial advantages. It promises improved fuel efficiency, lower operational costs, reduced carbon footprint, and extended range or loiter times, critical for prolonged firefighting missions. This sustainable approach aligns with global environmental goals while providing practical operational benefits.
Concurrently, artificial intelligence integration revolutionizes mission effectiveness. AI can provide real time data analysis, predictive fire modeling, optimal flight path planning, and precision water or retardant delivery. This intelligence enhances situational awareness, improves crew safety, and maximizes the impact of every deployment, making firefighting operations smarter and more efficient.
Collectively, these advanced systems represent a transformative leap. They offer countries a powerful, environmentally conscious, and highly effective arsenal to combat increasingly complex wildfires, driving modernization and investment in a crucial public safety sector. This convergence creates a lucrative new segment within aerial firefighting.
Global Water Bomber Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Type
- •Single Engine
- •Multi Engine
- •Seaplane
By Water Capacity
- •Less than 2000 Gallons
- •2000 to 4000 Gallons
- •More than 4000 Gallons
By Application
- •Firefighting
- •Rescue Operations
- •Surveillance
By End Use
- •Government
- •Private Sector
- •Non-Profit Organizations
Segment Share By Type
Share, By Type, 2025 (%)
- Single Engine
- Multi Engine
- Seaplane
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Why is Firefighting the dominant application in the Global Water Bomber Market?
The prominence of Firefighting, holding an 87.4% share, stems directly from the increasing global frequency and severity of wildfires. These natural disasters demand immediate and extensive aerial intervention. Water bombers are indispensable tools for rapid containment and suppression efforts, leading governments and emergency services worldwide to prioritize investments in aircraft specifically equipped for this crucial application, thus driving its commanding market position.
How does the Water Capacity segment influence the operational effectiveness of water bombers?
The segmentation by Water Capacity is critical as it dictates the operational scale and efficiency of water bombing missions. Aircraft with More than 4000 Gallons capacity are highly valued for battling large scale wildfires due to their ability to deliver significant volumes of water or retardant per drop, enhancing suppression speed and effectiveness. However, smaller capacity aircraft remain crucial for initial attack or accessing tighter areas.
What role do different End Use sectors play in shaping the Global Water Bomber Market?
The Government sector is the primary end use, reflecting the public responsibility for disaster response and environmental protection. Governmental bodies, including national and regional fire departments and defense organizations, are the major purchasers and operators of water bombers. While the Private Sector and Non Profit Organizations also contribute, their involvement often supplements government efforts, particularly in specialized operations or through contractual agreements for aerial firefighting services.
What Regulatory and Policy Factors Shape the Global Water Bomber Market
The global water bomber market operates within a complex regulatory framework driven by national aviation authorities and international agreements. Certification processes for new aircraft and modifications are stringent, requiring adherence to airworthiness directives from bodies such as ICAO, FAA, and EASA. Procurement policies vary significantly by nation, often favoring domestic industries or mandating specific performance criteria and local content. Governments frequently employ long term contracts for operational services and maintenance, impacting market stability.
International cooperation agreements for mutual aid during wildfire emergencies necessitate common operational protocols and cross border flight permissions. Environmental regulations influence aircraft design, particularly concerning noise emissions and fuel efficiency standards. Import and export controls for specialized aerospace components and complete aircraft also shape market access. Funding allocation for emergency services and disaster preparedness directly impacts market demand, often reflecting national budget priorities and perceived wildfire risks. This patchwork of regulations, safety standards, and fiscal policies creates a diverse and challenging operational landscape for water bomber manufacturers and operators globally.
What New Technologies are Shaping Global Water Bomber Market?
The global water bomber market is experiencing significant technological advancements, propelling its expansion. Innovations are centered on enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and environmental impact. Emerging technologies include advanced AI driven flight path optimization and predictive analytics, which leverage real time data for superior fire behavior assessment and targeted water drops. Hybrid electric propulsion systems are under development, promising extended range and reduced carbon footprints.
Material science breakthroughs are yielding lighter, stronger airframes, increasing payload capacity and maneuverability. Integration of autonomous systems for reconnaissance drones provides critical intelligence on fire perimeters and hotspots, allowing for precise and safer operations. Enhanced sensor suites offer superior visibility in challenging smoke conditions. Satellite communication and real time data sharing platforms facilitate seamless coordination among ground crews and aerial assets. These innovations are collectively transforming aerial firefighting capabilities, enabling faster, more effective, and safer responses to wildfires worldwide.
Global Water Bomber Market Regional Analysis
Global Water Bomber Market
Trends, by Region
North America Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
North America · 45.2% share
North America dominates the global water bomber market with a substantial 45.2% share. This leadership is driven by several factors including the frequent occurrence of large scale wildfires across the United States and Canada necessitating extensive aerial firefighting capabilities. Significant investment in advanced aircraft acquisition and maintenance by government agencies and private operators further solidifies the region's position. Robust manufacturing infrastructure for specialized aviation components and a strong research and development ecosystem contribute to continuous innovation in water bomber technology. The presence of major industry players and a well developed support network for aerial firefighting operations also underpins North America's pronounced market dominance.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 7.9% CAGR
Asia Pacific is poised to be the fastest growing region in the global water bomber market, exhibiting a robust CAGR of 7.9% from 2026 to 2035. This significant expansion is driven by several critical factors. The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires across Australia and parts of Southeast Asia are escalating the demand for advanced aerial firefighting capabilities. Furthermore, rising climate change awareness and heightened government investments in disaster preparedness initiatives are fueling the procurement of specialized aircraft. The region's expanding defense budgets, coupled with a growing focus on modernizing emergency response fleets, further contribute to this rapid market growth. Local manufacturing capabilities and strategic partnerships are also playing a pivotal role in strengthening Asia Pacific's position.
Top Countries Overview
The U.S. plays a pivotal, dual role in the global water bomber market. As a significant developer and manufacturer, companies like Viking Air (though Canadian-owned, with strong U.S. market ties for parts/services) contribute to the supply. Simultaneously, the U.S., facing increasing wildfires, is a major end-user and buyer, driving demand for these specialized aerial firefighting assets. Its vast geographical challenges ensure it remains a critical market player, both for production and acquisition.
China holds a nascent but potentially disruptive position in the global water bomber market. While not a traditional exporter, its domestic aircraft manufacturers are developing capabilities in this niche. The focus is primarily on fulfilling internal needs for firefighting and disaster relief. However, future strategic export ventures are plausible, especially with platforms adaptable for multi-role functions, potentially challenging established Western players with competitive pricing and state-backed offerings.
India isn't a significant player in the global water bomber market, neither as a major producer nor a top consumer. Its domestic needs for aerial firefighting are growing, leading to some acquisitions of foreign aircraft. However, a robust indigenous manufacturing base or a large export market for Indian-made water bombers remains largely undeveloped.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical shifts directly impact water bomber demand. Increased frequency and intensity of wildfires, often exacerbated by climate change, compel nations to invest in aerial firefighting capabilities. Strategic alliances and regional security concerns influence procurement, with some countries prioritizing domestic production while others seek international suppliers. Defense budgets, traditionally focused on conventional weaponry, are increasingly reallocated to address climate related disasters, driving market expansion. Political stability and international cooperation facilitate technology transfer and joint development initiatives, further shaping market dynamics.
Macroeconomic conditions significantly influence market growth. Economic prosperity allows governments to allocate more resources towards disaster preparedness, including acquiring advanced water bombers. Conversely, economic downturns can lead to budget cuts, delaying or reducing procurement. Inflationary pressures impact production costs and final prices, affecting affordability. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates influence import and export prices for both manufacturers and buyers. Innovation in aerial firefighting technology, often driven by private sector investment, is a key economic factor, enhancing aircraft efficiency and operational effectiveness, thus stimulating demand.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
Conair Group announced a strategic partnership with Bae Systems to integrate advanced AI-driven fire detection and navigation systems into their next-generation water bomber fleet. This collaboration aims to enhance operational efficiency and precision during firefighting missions.
- September 2024
Air Tractor launched its new AT-802F Fire Boss with upgraded Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A engines, offering improved fuel efficiency and increased payload capacity. This product launch directly addresses the market's demand for more economical and powerful aerial firefighting solutions.
- November 2024
Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation acquired a significant stake in Dhruva Aerospace, signaling its entry into the drone-based firefighting support market. This acquisition will allow Mitsubishi to explore integrated manned and unmanned aerial firefighting strategies.
- January 2025
Textron Aviation initiated a strategic initiative to develop a multi-role amphibious aircraft, capable of both passenger transport and rapid conversion to a water bomber. This project aims to offer greater versatility and year-round utilization for potential operators.
- April 2025
Vector Aerospace formed a partnership with the Philippine Aerospace Development Corporation to establish a new MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facility in Southeast Asia, specializing in water bomber aircraft. This collaboration seeks to provide localized support and reduce downtime for regional operators.
Key Players Analysis
The Global Water Bomber Market is shaped by key players like Conair Group and Air Tractor, leaders in purpose built aerial firefighting aircraft known for their reliable airframes and advanced dispersal systems. Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation and Bae Systems represent larger aerospace firms potentially exploring or contributing to next generation water bomber technologies like hybrid propulsion or autonomous features. Companies like Vector Aerospace and Dhruva Aerospace focus on maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, crucial for fleet sustainment. Strategic initiatives often involve modernization programs, extending aircraft lifespan, and developing more efficient fire suppression techniques. Market growth is driven by increasing global wildfire incidents and the demand for rapid, effective aerial response.
List of Key Companies:
- Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation
- Conair Group
- Air Tractor
- Vector Aerospace
- AirSprint
- Piper Aircraft
- Bae Systems
- Textron Aviation
- Dhruva Aerospace
- Philippine Aerospace Development Corporation
- Bombardier
- Embraer
- Northrop Grumman
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 2.95 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 5.41 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 6.4% |
| 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 Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Water Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Water Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Water Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Water Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Water Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Water Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Water Bomber Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035