Boeing is first again: the most expensive brands in the aerospace and defense industry have been determined
16 April 2025 11:49
The total value of the world’s top 10 aerospace and defense brands increased significantly in 2025, reflecting the recovery in global demand for defense capabilities, renewed investment in aviation, and strategic innovation in the military and commercial sectors. This is stated in the report Brand Finance Aerospace & Defense 2025
The report notes that American brands occupy six of the top ten positions and account for the largest share of the total brand value.
What is the top ten brand value ranking?
1. Boeing remains the world’s most expensive aerospace and defense brand for the 10th consecutive year (brand value increased by 12% to USD 18.2 billion). Its revival is supported by the global recovery in air travel and the rebound in demand for commercial aircraft. Boeing’s progress in addressing manufacturing challenges and strengthening supply chain resilience has enhanced its reputation, while the development of unmanned systems and space exploration has expanded its presence in emerging markets.
2. Airbus (up 3% to USD 16.7 billion) maintained its second position thanks to a robust order book and successful production ramp-up. Airbus’ commitment to sustainability, especially with respect to hydrogen-powered aircraft, has strengthened brand perception, and its investments in urban air mobility underline its long-term innovation strategy.
3. Lockheed Martin (up 16% to USD 11.0 billion) is in third place, with its growing brand value driven by rising global defense budgets and its leading role in hypersonic rocket development.
4. GE Aerospace (new entrant, brand value of USD 8.7 billion) ranks fourth in the ranking after its spin-off from General Electric. Strong financial results and renewed investment in manufacturing, a renewed focus on innovative engines, and an expanded supply chain have helped to re-establish the company as a key player in both commercial and military aviation.
5. Northrop Grumman rounds out the top five (down 9% to USD 6.3 billion). Although the brand remains an integral part of national security innovation, a decline in its brand strength index contributed to a 9% drop in brand value this year.
6. BAE Systems (up 13% to USD 6.1 billion) experienced growth through strategic acquisitions, such as Ball Corporation’s aerospace division, which expanded its defense electronics offering. The brand’s involvement in large-scale contracts, including the £3.95 billion AUKUS submarine deal, strengthened its position as a global leader in defense.
7. General Dynamics (up 24% to USD 5.9 billion) is the second fastest growing brand in the top ten. A diverse portfolio spanning aerospace, maritime and combat systems, combined with strategic investments in cybersecurity and IT solutions, has boosted brand value and market trust.
8. Safran (up 8% to USD 5.1 billion) is showing continued growth, driven by innovations in propulsion systems and partnerships with leading aircraft manufacturers.
9. Raytheon (down 10% to USD 4.7 billion) remains in the top ten despite a drop in brand value. Accusations of corruption and brand dilution through more efficient subsidiaries have negatively impacted brand strength and revenue growth.
10. Rolls-Royce (up 44% to $4.5 billion) recorded the fastest growth among the top ten. The brand’s strategic focus on hydrogen engines and its involvement in a project to develop a nuclear reactor for use on the moon have revitalized the brand’s image. The resurgence of commercial aviation has also increased demand for Rolls-Royce engines, especially among airlines expanding or modernizing their fleets.
The authors of the ranking also note that South Korea, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom show the largest growth of the national brand.
Profits of defense companies are growing
Revenues from the sale of arms and military services by the 100 largest companies in the industry reached $632 billion. According to a study by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), this revenue growth was observed in all regions. In general, the researchers note, manufacturers have responded effectively to new demand related to the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, rising tensions in East Asia, and rearmament programs in other countries.
the 41 companies in the top 100 based in the United States recorded arms sales revenues of $317 billion, accounting for half of the total arms sales revenue in 2023 for the top 100 and 2.5 percent more than in 2022.
