Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market Size
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market Analysis
The Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market size is estimated at USD 5.35 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 8.05 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 8.51% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The unmanned marine vehicles industry is experiencing rapid technological evolution, particularly in sensor technology integration and autonomous capabilities. Various sensor types, including vision sensors, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), infrared, sonar, and radar systems, are being incorporated into modern autonomous marine systems such as unmanned surface vessels (USVs) to enable safe navigation and obstacle avoidance. These technological advancements are focused on developing cost-effective, interoperable, and compact solutions that leverage modern electronics features such as enhanced positioning, communication, and miniaturization capabilities. According to industry data, the global drone market revenue, which significantly influences unmanned marine vehicles technology development, is expected to reach USD 43 billion by 2025.
The maritime industry is witnessing a significant shift towards autonomous operations, driven by the need for improved efficiency and reduced operational costs. Major industry players are investing heavily in research and development of autonomous marine systems and remote operation capabilities. This transformation is particularly evident in the commercial shipping sector, where, according to UNCTAD data, the global transport volume of seaborne trade reached 10.65 billion tons loaded, indicating the massive potential for autonomous marine systems integration in commercial operations. The industry is seeing increased collaboration between traditional maritime companies and technology providers to develop innovative solutions for autonomous vessel operations.
Strategic partnerships and collaborations are emerging as a key trend in the unmanned marine vehicles market. In November 2021, a significant partnership was formed between Israel Aerospace Industries and the United Arab Emirates' advanced technology defense group EDGE, focusing on the joint development of advanced unmanned marine vehicles such as autonomous underwater vehicles. This collaboration encompasses the development of autonomous systems, robotics, artificial intelligence, and algorithms that enable distributed maritime operational capabilities. Such partnerships are accelerating technological advancement and market expansion while fostering innovation in maritime robotics.
The industry is witnessing a notable shift towards the development of smaller, more efficient platforms with enhanced sensor capabilities. Improvements in sensor technology are leading to reduced science payload power requirements, enabling the use of progressively smaller platforms while maintaining or improving operational capabilities. This trend is particularly significant as it addresses both cost and efficiency concerns while expanding the potential applications of unmanned marine vehicles. The focus on miniaturization and efficiency is driving innovation in areas such as power management, communication systems, and payload integration, creating new opportunities for market growth and technological advancement in underwater robotics and autonomous ship operations.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market Trends
Oceanic Surveillance for Defense Purposes
The increasing maritime security threats, including torpedo threats, underwater mines, diesel-electric submarine attacks, and short-range anti-ship missiles, are compelling defense organizations worldwide to invest heavily in autonomous marine vehicles. Defense departments are particularly focused on developing unmanned underwater vehicles that can operate both at sea level and below the surface to enhance their surveillance capabilities while reducing risks to human personnel. This strategic shift is evidenced by significant defense contracts, such as the U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command's (NAVSEA) USD 358 million agreement with Leidos in 2023 for designing and building medium-size unmanned underwater vehicles, demonstrating the growing emphasis on autonomous surveillance solutions.
The integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence systems and sophisticated sensor arrays has revolutionized oceanic surveillance capabilities. Modern remotely operated vehicles are equipped with multiple sensors, including imaging systems, radar, sonar, environmental sensors, and dataloggers, enabling them to perform complex surveillance missions with greater efficiency. For instance, the development of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles specifically designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations has enhanced the military's ability to monitor vast oceanic territories while maintaining operational security. These platforms have proven particularly valuable in mine countermeasure (MCM) operations and anti-submarine warfare (ASW), where they can identify and neutralize potential threats without putting human operators at risk.
Increased Usage of Unmanned Marine Vehicles for Underwater Mapping in Marine Geoscience Studies
The expanding applications of remotely operated vehicles in underwater mapping and marine geoscience studies have become a significant market driver, as these vehicles provide unprecedented capabilities for exploring and mapping ocean floors with high precision. Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) have revolutionized the ability to image seafloors, delivering mapping data with superior resolution compared to traditional surface vessel methods, particularly in deep-water environments. The technology's ability to operate autonomously in extreme environments, from the deepest hydrothermal vents to beneath polar ice sheets, has made it an invaluable tool for marine research institutions and oceanographic organizations worldwide.
The advancement in sensor technology and data collection capabilities has significantly enhanced the effectiveness of underwater robotics in geoscience applications. Modern AUVs are equipped with sophisticated equipment, including side-scan sonar, sub-bottom profilers, electronic still cameras, and various environmental sensors that enable comprehensive seabed analysis. For example, the German Federal Ministry's investment of EUR 12 million in 2023 for developing novel autonomous submersible marine robotics systems demonstrates the growing focus on enhancing underwater mapping capabilities. These vehicles are increasingly being deployed for tasks ranging from detailed bathymetric surveys to environmental monitoring, with the ability to operate continuously for extended periods while collecting high-quality data about marine ecosystems, geological formations, and underwater resources.
Segment Analysis: By Type
Underwater Vehicle Segment in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market
The Underwater Vehicle segment continues to dominate the global unmanned marine vehicles market, commanding approximately 81% market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the increasing adoption of autonomous underwater vehicles (UUVs) for various critical applications, including defense operations, oceanographic research, and subsea infrastructure inspection. The segment's prominence is further strengthened by growing investment in autonomous underwater technologies for mine countermeasure operations, intelligence gathering, and marine scientific research. Major defense organizations worldwide are increasingly deploying UUVs to enhance their naval capabilities while reducing risks to human personnel. Additionally, the commercial sector's rising demand for underwater drones in offshore energy exploration, cable inspection, and marine archaeology has contributed substantially to this segment's market leadership.
Surface Vehicle Segment in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market
The Surface Vehicle segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the unmanned marine vehicles market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 13% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by the increasing adoption of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for maritime surveillance, coastal patrol, and environmental monitoring applications. The segment is witnessing rapid technological advancements in autonomous navigation systems, collision avoidance capabilities, and integration of advanced sensors, making USVs more reliable and efficient for various maritime operations. The development of sophisticated control systems and improved communication technologies has enabled these vehicles to operate effectively in challenging maritime environments. Furthermore, the growing focus on reducing operational costs and enhancing maritime security has led to increased investment in surface vehicle technologies by both military and commercial sectors.
Segment Analysis: By Control Type
Remotely Operated Segment in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market
The remotely operated vehicles segment continues to dominate the unmanned marine vehicles market, holding approximately 71% of the market share in 2024. These vehicles are connected to ships through cables that transmit command and control signals between the ROV and the operator, enabling remote navigation. Modern remotely operated vehicles are equipped with advanced features, including articulating arms, video cameras, lights, and sophisticated sonar systems. The segment's dominance is primarily driven by their widespread application in vessel hull inspections, object identification for submerged navigation hazards, and underwater infrastructure maintenance. The development of enhanced control system software has significantly improved the efficiencies of remotely controlled unmanned marine vehicles, making them increasingly reliable for critical operations. These vehicles are particularly valued in the offshore energy sector for subsea observation and inspection tasks, especially in strong currents and challenging sea conditions.
Autonomous Segment in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market
The autonomous segment is experiencing rapid growth in the unmanned marine vehicles market, projected to grow at approximately 17% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This remarkable growth is driven by increasing investments in autonomous technology development and the rising need for vehicles capable of performing tasks over large spatial and temporal durations in water. The segment is witnessing significant technological advancements in sensors, positioning, and communications technologies, enabling more complex operations and improved interaction with the environment. Maritime defense organizations worldwide are increasingly adopting autonomous systems, particularly for mine countermeasure operations, as they offer the advantage of keeping personnel away from dangerous zones. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms has further enhanced the capabilities of autonomous underwater vehicles, allowing them to operate more effectively in challenging underwater environments and perform increasingly sophisticated missions with minimal human intervention.
Segment Analysis: By Application
Defense Segment in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market
The defense segment continues to dominate the global unmanned marine vehicles market, commanding approximately 88% market share in 2024. This substantial market presence is driven by increasing investments in maritime defense capabilities worldwide, particularly in unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for various military applications. Defense organizations are increasingly deploying these vehicles for critical missions, including mine countermeasures, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. The segment's growth is further supported by rising geopolitical tensions and the need to protect maritime borders, leading to increased adoption of unmanned marine vehicles by naval forces globally. Major defense contractors are developing advanced autonomous capabilities and enhanced sensor technologies to meet the evolving requirements of modern naval warfare while focusing on reducing human risk in dangerous maritime operations.
Commercial Segment in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market
The commercial segment is experiencing remarkable growth in the unmanned marine vehicles market, projected to expand at approximately 20% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This accelerated growth is driven by increasing adoption across various commercial applications, including offshore energy exploration, seabed mapping, marine research, and port security. The segment is witnessing significant technological advancements in autonomous navigation systems and artificial intelligence integration, making unmanned marine vehicles more reliable and efficient for commercial operations. Maritime industry players are increasingly recognizing the cost-effectiveness and operational benefits of unmanned systems, particularly in reducing human risk in challenging offshore environments. The development of more sophisticated sensor technologies and improved communication systems is enabling these vehicles to perform complex commercial tasks with greater precision and reliability, while emerging applications in offshore wind farm maintenance and underwater infrastructure inspection are creating new growth opportunities.
Remaining Segments in Application Market Segmentation
The research segment plays a vital role in the unmanned marine vehicles market, primarily driven by oceanographic studies, marine geology research, and environmental monitoring applications. Research institutions and marine science organizations utilize these vehicles for collecting critical data about ocean conditions, marine ecosystems, and climate change impacts. These unmanned systems are particularly valuable for conducting long-term environmental monitoring missions and accessing remote or dangerous underwater locations that would be challenging for human researchers to reach. The segment benefits from ongoing technological innovations in sensor capabilities and data collection systems, enabling more comprehensive and accurate marine research. Additionally, collaborations between academic institutions and commercial entities are fostering new applications and improvements in research-oriented unmanned marine vehicle technologies.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market Geography Segment Analysis
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market in North America
North America represents a dominant force in the global unmanned marine vehicles market, driven by substantial defense spending and technological advancement. The United States and Canada form the key markets in this region, with both countries actively investing in autonomous marine systems for defense and commercial applications. The region's leadership position is supported by the presence of major industry players, advanced research facilities, and strong government support for unmanned maritime systems development. Both nations are focusing on developing sophisticated autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for various applications, including maritime surveillance, underwater mapping, and naval operations.

Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market in the United States
The United States stands as the largest market for unmanned marine vehicles in North America, commanding approximately 97% of the regional market share in 2024. The country's dominant position is attributed to its extensive naval operations, substantial defense budget, and advanced technological capabilities. The U.S. Navy's strategic focus on unmanned systems, particularly in mine countermeasure operations and maritime surveillance, continues to drive market growth. The country hosts numerous research institutions and defense contractors working on developing next-generation autonomous marine technologies. The presence of key industry players and ongoing military modernization programs further strengthens the United States' position as a leader in unmanned marine vehicle development and deployment.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market Growth Trajectory in the United States
The United States is also experiencing the highest growth rate in North America, with a projected CAGR of approximately 11% from 2024-2029. This growth is driven by increasing investments in autonomous marine technologies, expanding applications in commercial sectors, and ongoing military modernization programs. The country's focus on developing advanced autonomous capabilities for naval operations, including mine countermeasures and underwater surveillance, continues to fuel market expansion. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in unmanned marine vehicles, coupled with increasing adoption in commercial applications such as offshore energy exploration and marine research, further supports this growth trajectory.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market in Europe
Europe represents a significant market for unmanned marine vehicles, with France, Germany, and Italy leading the regional development and adoption of autonomous marine technologies. The region's maritime industry actively embraces unmanned systems for both military and commercial applications, supported by collaborative research initiatives and strong regulatory frameworks. European nations are particularly focused on developing autonomous solutions for maritime surveillance, underwater exploration, and naval defense operations. The presence of established marine technology companies and research institutions further strengthens Europe's position in the global unmanned marine vehicles market.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market in France
France emerges as the largest market for unmanned marine vehicles in Europe, holding approximately 23% of the regional market share in 2024. The country's leadership position is supported by its strong naval industry, advanced technological capabilities, and significant investments in maritime autonomous systems. French defense contractors and research institutions are actively developing innovative unmanned marine solutions for both military and civilian applications. The country's focus on maritime security and surveillance, coupled with its strategic position in the Mediterranean region, continues to drive market growth.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market Growth Trajectory in France
France also leads the European market in terms of growth rate, with a projected CAGR of approximately 11% from 2024-2029. This growth is driven by increasing investments in autonomous marine technologies, expanding applications in commercial sectors, and ongoing military modernization programs. The country's commitment to developing advanced autonomous capabilities for naval operations, including mine countermeasures and underwater surveillance, continues to fuel market expansion. French companies are at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technologies in unmanned marine vehicles, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence and advanced sensor systems.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market in Asia-Pacific
The Asia-Pacific region demonstrates strong growth potential in the unmanned marine vehicles market, with China, Japan, India, and Australia emerging as key players. The region's maritime security concerns, increasing defense budgets, and growing focus on autonomous technologies drive market expansion. Countries in the region are actively developing and deploying unmanned marine vehicles for various applications, including maritime surveillance, underwater exploration, and naval operations. The presence of emerging technology hubs and increasing investments in maritime defense capabilities further strengthen the region's market position.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market in China
China stands as the dominant force in the Asia-Pacific unmanned marine vehicles market, driven by its extensive maritime interests and substantial investments in autonomous technologies. The country's focus on developing advanced unmanned systems for both military and commercial applications has established it as a regional leader. Chinese manufacturers are actively developing innovative solutions in autonomous underwater vehicles and unmanned surface vessels, supported by strong government backing and research initiatives. The country's expanding naval capabilities and focus on maritime domain awareness continue to drive market growth.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market Growth Trajectory in China
China leads the Asia-Pacific region in terms of market growth, supported by its robust technological infrastructure and strategic maritime initiatives. The country's commitment to advancing autonomous marine technologies spans both military and commercial applications, with particular emphasis on developing sophisticated underwater vehicles and surface vessels. Chinese companies are increasingly focusing on integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning into their unmanned marine systems. The nation's strategic focus on maritime sovereignty and blue economy initiatives continues to drive innovation in this sector.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market in Latin America
Latin America represents an emerging market for unmanned marine vehicles, with Brazil leading the regional development and adoption of autonomous marine technologies. The region's focus on maritime security, offshore resource exploration, and coastal surveillance drives market growth. Brazil, as the largest market and fastest-growing country in the region, is actively investing in unmanned marine technologies for both military and commercial applications. The country's extensive coastline and growing maritime interests create significant opportunities for market expansion. Other Latin American nations are also showing increasing interest in adopting unmanned marine vehicles for various applications, particularly in maritime security and offshore resource exploration.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market in Middle East & Africa
The Middle East & Africa region demonstrates growing potential in the unmanned marine vehicles market, with South Africa emerging as a key player. The region's focus on maritime security, offshore resource protection, and port surveillance drives market growth. Countries in this region are increasingly adopting unmanned marine vehicles for various applications, including maritime patrol, underwater inspection, and coastal monitoring. South Africa, as both the largest and fastest-growing market in the region, leads the adoption of autonomous marine technologies. The region's strategic maritime location and growing focus on maritime security create significant opportunities for market expansion.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Industry Overview
Top Companies in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market
The unmanned marine vehicles market is characterized by significant technological advancement and innovation among key players like General Dynamics, BAE Systems, Atlas Elektronik, and Kongsberg Gruppen. Companies are heavily investing in research and development to enhance autonomous marine systems capabilities, sensor integration, and mission-specific functionalities of their unmanned vessels. Strategic collaborations with defense organizations and research institutions have become increasingly common to accelerate product development and market penetration. Market leaders are expanding their geographical presence through acquisitions and partnerships, particularly in regions with strong defense spending. The industry witnesses continuous product launches focusing on improved endurance, payload capacity, and operational flexibility across various maritime applications. Companies are also emphasizing the development of integrated command and control systems, demonstrating a shift towards comprehensive maritime autonomous systems solutions.
Defense-Driven Consolidation Shapes Market Structure
The unmanned marine vehicles market exhibits a relatively consolidated structure dominated by large defense contractors and specialized maritime technology providers. These established players leverage their extensive experience in naval systems, strong relationships with defense agencies, and substantial research capabilities to maintain their market positions. The market is characterized by high entry barriers due to significant capital requirements, complex regulatory frameworks, and the need for specialized technological expertise. Regional players often focus on niche applications or specific geographical markets, while global conglomerates offer comprehensive product portfolios across multiple maritime domains.
The industry has witnessed significant merger and acquisition activity, primarily driven by large defense contractors seeking to enhance their autonomous marine systems capabilities and expand their product offerings. Companies are actively pursuing strategic acquisitions of smaller, innovative firms specializing in autonomous technologies, artificial intelligence, and advanced sensor systems. This consolidation trend is particularly evident in mature markets where established players are looking to integrate cutting-edge technologies and maintain their competitive edge. Joint ventures and strategic alliances have become common strategies for companies to share technological expertise and access new markets.
Innovation and Adaptability Drive Market Success
Success in the unmanned marine vehicles market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate and adapt to evolving customer requirements, particularly in the defense sector. Incumbent players must focus on continuous technological advancement, including enhanced autonomous capabilities, improved sensor integration, and advanced data processing systems. Building strong relationships with defense agencies and research institutions remains crucial for securing long-term contracts and accessing research funding. Companies need to maintain flexible manufacturing capabilities to accommodate customized requirements while ensuring cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency.
Market contenders can gain ground by focusing on specialized applications or niche market segments where larger players may have limited presence. Developing innovative solutions for specific maritime challenges, such as mine countermeasures or underwater robotics surveillance, can provide opportunities for market entry and growth. Companies must also consider the increasing importance of system interoperability and the potential impact of evolving maritime regulations. The high concentration of defense customers necessitates strong compliance capabilities and long-term commitment to product support and maintenance. Additionally, firms must address the growing demand for autonomous capabilities while managing potential cybersecurity risks and regulatory requirements.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market Leaders
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General Dynamics
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Atlas Elektronik
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Sea Robotics Inc.
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Liquid Robotics
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Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market News
- August 2022 - Austal USA announced to partner with California-based Saildrone for building Saildrone Surveyor autonomous 'uncrewed' surface vehicle in Alabama. The partnership aims to provide a cutting-edge solution for maritime domain awareness, hydrographic survey, and other missions requiring persistent wide area coverage to the U.S. Navy and other government agency customers.
- November 2021 - Teledyne Marine partnered with Seatronics to increase the distribution of Bowtech underwater cameras, lights, and underwater strobes range in Europe, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific. The partnership also strengthened the company's after-sale care globally, using its regional service centers in the United Kingdom, Singapore, and the United States.
- July 2021 - Textron Systems announced that it had pre-awarded the United States Marine Corps Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV) prototype agreement for its purpose-built CottonmouthTM vehicle. The company may be producing a Cottonmouth vehicle for the Marine Corps that may go through rigorous testing and evaluation. The data gained from the ARV competitive prototyping efforts may be used to inform a USMC decision point in 2023.
- March 2021 - BAE Systems announced its unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV) portfolio, the Riptide UUV-12. The Riptide UUV-12 is easily adaptable to many mission requirements, including those requiring more significant and power-hungry payloads.
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Industry Segmentation
The unmanned marine vehicles market includes autonomous underwater vehicles, remotely operated vehicles, semi-submersibles, and unmanned surface craft. The defense sector is increasingly adopting, in addition to commercial sectors, to map and monitor the conditions of the sea or ocean and explore various oil and gas sites.
The study covers unmanned marine vehicles that include surface vehicles and underwater vehicles. Unmanned vehicles that operate completely on the surface are part of surface vehicles (USV). Subsurface and underwater vehicles are part of the underwater vehicle segment (UUV). Further, the study covers the applications of unmanned marine vehicles that include defense, commercial, and research.
Type | Surface Vehicle | ||
Underwater Vehicle | |||
Control Type | Remotely Operated | ||
Autonomous | |||
Application | Defense | ||
Research | |||
Commercial | |||
Other Applications | |||
Geography | North America | United States | |
Canada | |||
Europe | Germany | ||
Italy | |||
France | |||
Rest of Europe | |||
Asia-Pacific | China | ||
Japan | |||
India | |||
Australia | |||
Rest of Asia-Pacific | |||
Latin America | Brazil | ||
Rest of Latin America | |||
Middle-East and Africa | South Africa | ||
Rest of Middle-East and Africa |
Surface Vehicle |
Underwater Vehicle |
Remotely Operated |
Autonomous |
Defense |
Research |
Commercial |
Other Applications |
North America | United States |
Canada | |
Europe | Germany |
Italy | |
France | |
Rest of Europe | |
Asia-Pacific | China |
Japan | |
India | |
Australia | |
Rest of Asia-Pacific | |
Latin America | Brazil |
Rest of Latin America | |
Middle-East and Africa | South Africa |
Rest of Middle-East and Africa |
Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market Research FAQs
How big is the Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market?
The Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market size is expected to reach USD 5.35 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 8.51% to reach USD 8.05 billion by 2030.
What is the current Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market size?
In 2025, the Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market size is expected to reach USD 5.35 billion.
Who are the key players in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market?
General Dynamics, Atlas Elektronik, Sea Robotics Inc., Liquid Robotics and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems are the major companies operating in the Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market?
Asia-Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2025-2030).
Which region has the biggest share in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market?
In 2025, the North America accounts for the largest market share in Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market.
What years does this Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market size was estimated at USD 4.89 billion. The report covers the Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Unmanned Marine Vehicles Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
Page last updated on: October 14, 2024