#defense market report

[aerospace-and-defence]

The top five spenders in 2022-23 were the United States(39.1%), China(13.0%), Russia(3.8%), India(3.6%), and Saudi Arabia(3.3%), collectively contributing to 63% of global military expenditure. This trend highlights the strategic priority nations are assigning to bolstering their defense capabilities in the current geopolitical landscape.

[defenseemarketre]

Global Aviation and Defense Market

As per the Aerospace and Defense market Industry Overview, it is noted that the transition toward more digital and operational efficiencies will probably go more quickly as a result of emerging technology, changing company models, and rising M&A activity. Particularly, digital thread and smart factories provide a variety of productivity- and efficiency-improving technologies that can shorten cycle times and speed up the time to market. A&D market-based companies that prioritize innovation will probably be more ready for 2022.

The Aerospace and Defense Industry analysis suggests that the demand for small and medium-sized aircraft is poised to reach pre-pandemic levels in the year 2022. The Aviation Defense Industry experts have made speculations that the commercial aviation segment would be one of the fastest growing segments. The increased focus of aircraft manufacturers within the narrow body aircraft domain is poised to be one of the high investment verticals.

 In terms of trends, it is also noted that the aviation sector is poised to go through rampant digitalization within the aftersales domain.

Companies are looking for ways to increase aftermarket value as the commercial aerospace recovery picks up speed because the pandemic caused a significant decline in aftermarket revenues and earnings. Generally speaking, the top priorities for aerospace customers include lowering prices and turnaround times as well as reducing risks. To expand customers' insight into production and material systems, connect applications across platforms, and better linkage to engineering data, aerospace businesses may invest in digital platforms in 2022.

The Defense market reports is predominantly driven by the growth in the defense budget across the global markets. Regions like North America and APAC are noted to be the key leaders associated with this trend owing to the change in the political environment as well as the abrasions between the US and China to strive as a global military power.

The Defense Aviation and defense intelligence sector is seen to witness a rapid wave of digitalization. The enabling of this digital thread is important for the boom in the A&D business. From the initial design to the finished product, the digital thread connects every stage of an A&D market’s product's life cycle while gathering real-time input.

The Aerospace and defense market report size and further industry trends have been covered in depth by Defense reports published by Aviation and Defense market reports. The overall trends within this market and the shift in trends associated with the changing defense budget as well as the technology trends have also been covered as a part of this report. As per Aviation and Defense Reports, the Aerospace segment is also poised to witness rampant growth owing to the introduction of next-generation satellites. The growth in telecommunication technology and the proliferation of broadband internet across global markets are poised to be one of the main drivers for this vertical. Additionally, in the vertical associated with Earth observation, satellites can now regularly collect terabytes of fine-grained photographs from every part of the planet. Advanced software can gradually use this data to produce insights that guide organizational decision-making. See More Reports At :-  active protection system market,  active protection system industry, active electronically scanned array, active electronically scanned array radar, aesa system, aesa technology, aesa radar market, air and missile defense systems,  global missile defense system,  anpad market,  manpad market,  missile defense systems, air defense systems, airborne marketing, airborne countermeasure market size, airborne countermeasure market research, airborne isr market, airborne lidar market, airborne lidar

[defensemarket4321]

Aerospace defense market

AnD Defense Market Reports is a market research and business intelligence firm that specializes in the creation of high-quality, cutting-edge reports, analyses and studies across the Global Aviation, Space and Aerospace Defense markets.

[mohitbisresearch]

The spoofing detection technologies market is expected to experience growth, with significant advancements anticipated during the forecast period, leading to substantial value projections by the end of the decade.

[mordormr]

How Technology is Shaping the U.S. Aerospace and Defense Market: Key Drivers and Challenges

The United States Aerospace and Defense Market is projected to grow from an estimated USD 496.56 billion in 2024 to USD 656.93 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.76% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2029.

Market Overview: How Technology is Shaping the U.S. Aerospace and Defense Market: Key Drivers and Challenges

The U.S. aerospace and defense market is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by technological advancements and evolving geopolitical dynamics. As the industry adapts to new challenges and opportunities, understanding the role of technology is essential for stakeholders, including manufacturers, suppliers, and policymakers. According to Mordor Intelligence, the integration of cutting-edge technologies is reshaping operational efficiencies, enhancing capabilities, and driving growth in this vital sector.

Key Drivers:

Advanced Manufacturing Technologies: The adoption of advanced manufacturing techniques, such as additive manufacturing (3D printing) and automation, is revolutionizing the production processes in the aerospace and defense industry. These technologies allow for more efficient production, reduced lead times, and lower costs while enabling the creation of complex components that were previously difficult to manufacture.

Digital Transformation: The aerospace and defense sector is increasingly leveraging digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI). These tools are enhancing data-driven decision-making, improving supply chain management, and facilitating predictive maintenance. Digital twins, which create virtual replicas of physical systems, are also gaining traction, enabling better performance monitoring and optimization of assets.

Cybersecurity Enhancements: As defense systems become more interconnected, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical concern. The U.S. government and private companies are investing significantly in advanced cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and infrastructure from cyber threats. This includes the development of robust encryption protocols, threat detection systems, and comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard critical defense operations.

Integration of Unmanned Systems: The increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and autonomous systems is reshaping military operations and logistics. These technologies provide enhanced situational awareness, reduce risks to personnel, and improve operational efficiency. The U.S. defense sector is expanding its capabilities in drone technology, focusing on surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat operations.

Sustainability Initiatives: The aerospace and defense industry is placing a greater emphasis on sustainability, driven by regulatory pressures and public demand for greener practices. Companies are investing in research and development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient technologies to reduce their environmental footprint and meet regulatory requirements.

Challenges:

Regulatory Compliance: The aerospace and defense sector is subject to stringent regulatory frameworks that can slow down innovation and increase operational costs. Companies must navigate complex compliance requirements, which can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.

Supply Chain Disruptions: Global supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, pose challenges for the aerospace and defense market. Companies are facing delays in raw material procurement and increased costs, necessitating the need for enhanced supply chain resilience and diversification.

Talent Shortages: The rapid pace of technological advancement has created a talent gap in the aerospace and defense industry. Companies are struggling to find skilled professionals in emerging technologies, such as AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Addressing this talent shortage is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and driving innovation.

Geopolitical Uncertainty: Geopolitical tensions, such as those involving China, Russia, and North Korea, create uncertainties for defense spending and procurement strategies. Fluctuating defense budgets can impact long-term planning and investment decisions within the industry.

Future Outlook:

The U.S. aerospace and defense market is expected to continue evolving as technology plays a pivotal role in shaping its future. Mordor Intelligence forecasts robust growth, driven by increasing defense budgets, advancements in technology, and a focus on modernization and innovation.

Investment in R&D will be crucial for companies to stay ahead in a competitive landscape. Collaborations between government, academia, and industry will be essential to drive technological advancements and address emerging challenges. As the market navigates the complexities of regulatory compliance, supply chain disruptions, and talent shortages, the integration of advanced technologies will be key to enhancing operational efficiencies and maintaining national security.

In summary, technology is a transformative force in the U.S. aerospace and defense market, offering significant opportunities and challenges. Stakeholders must leverage innovative solutions to adapt to a rapidly changing environment, ensuring that the industry remains resilient and capable of meeting future demands.For a detailed overview and more insights, you can refer to the full market research report by Mordor Intelligence https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/us-aerospace-and-defense-market

[mordorintelligencemarketresearch]

Understanding the Europe Defense Industry: Trends, Challenges, and Future Outlook 

The defense industry in Europe is experiencing a transformative phase, driven by evolving geopolitical dynamics, technological advancements, and increased government spending. As nations prioritize national security and defense capabilities, the market is set for significant growth. In this blog, we will explore the current landscape of the European defense industry, key trends shaping its future, and the challenges it faces. 

Current Landscape of the Europe Defense Industry 

The European defense market is characterized by a diverse range of sectors, including land, air, and naval defense systems, cybersecurity, and advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and unmanned systems. The industry's size and scope vary across different countries, with leading nations like France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Italy at the forefront of defense expenditure and innovation. 

According to recent market research, the European defense market is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, fueled by heightened security concerns due to geopolitical tensions and the ongoing threat of terrorism. Governments are increasingly recognizing the need for robust defense capabilities, leading to a surge in military budgets and investment in advanced technologies. 

Key Trends in the European Defense Market 

Increased Defense Budgets: Many European countries are raising their defense budgets to meet NATO's requirement of spending at least 2% of GDP on defense. This trend reflects the growing recognition of the need for enhanced military capabilities amid rising threats. 

Focus on Technological Innovation: The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity into defense systems is reshaping the industry. European defense contractors are investing in research and development to create cutting-edge solutions that enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness. 

Collaborative Defense Initiatives: There is a growing emphasis on multinational collaboration and joint defense projects among European nations. Initiatives like the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) aim to foster cooperation in defense capabilities and procurement, ultimately leading to a more integrated European defense landscape. 

Shift towards Sustainability: The defense industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint. Efforts to develop eco-friendly technologies and sustainable practices are gaining traction, aligning with broader global sustainability goals. 

Challenges Facing the Europe Defense Industry 

Despite its growth potential, the European defense industry faces several challenges: 

Geopolitical Uncertainties: The ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe, particularly regarding Russia, and the shifting dynamics of international relations can create uncertainties for defense planning and investment. 

Supply Chain Disruptions: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, impacting the availability of critical components and technologies in the defense sector. Addressing these disruptions is essential for maintaining operational readiness. 

Budget Constraints: While many countries are increasing defense spending, economic pressures and competing priorities can still pose challenges to sustaining long-term investment in defense capabilities. 

Future Outlook 

The future of the European defense industry looks promising, with strong growth potential driven by increased government spending, technological advancements, and collaborative initiatives. As countries strive to enhance their defense capabilities and address emerging threats, investment in innovative solutions will be paramount. 

Industry stakeholders must remain agile and responsive to changing market dynamics, focusing on developing sustainable, cutting-edge technologies that meet the evolving needs of national security. By embracing collaboration and innovation, the European defense industry can position itself as a global leader in defense solutions. 

Conclusion 

The European defense market is undergoing a significant transformation, shaped by a variety of factors including geopolitical challenges, technological advancements, and a commitment to sustainability. As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders must navigate the complexities of the market while capitalizing on emerging opportunities. With a strong focus on collaboration and innovation, the European defense industry is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future and ensure national security for its nations. 

For a detailed overview and more insights, you can refer to the full market research report by Mordor Intelligence https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/europe-defense-market   

[tritonmarketresearchamey]

UAV Battery Market: What’s Next?

In 2020, the total global consumer UAV or drone shipment was around 5 million units. Estimates suggest this number to reach around 9.6 million units by 2030. Despite the demand, UAVs tend to face short travel range issues, which has elevated the demand for robust electrical protection systems. Subsequently, the increased demand for lithium-ion, fuel cells, and nickel batteries is widening the scope of the UAV battery market globally.

In recent years, battery technologies such as fuel cells have gained momentum with benefits like greater energy density that enables superior control and stability during movement. Doosan’s DS30 drones powered by a 2.6 kW fuel cell is one such example having four to five times the higher energy density than other batteries.

As per industry sources, the battery market has witnessed tremendous technological developments in recent years. This has pushed the production and deployment of UAV batteries, influencing the studied market to evolve at 17.46% between 2022 and 2028.

UAV Battery Market: Progression Backed by Funding

Military investments and government support for drone technology have soared immensely, elevating UAV battery stocks. In line with this, operating players are streamlining their portfolios regarding components and affordability. This growth is majorly observed in North America and Asia-Pacific.

The Asia-Pacific UAV battery market is expected to witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 18.01% due to rising investments in battery R&D and defense budgets, such as:

China, for instance, invested $293 billion in its 2021 defense budget, focusing primarily on security & surveillance, fueling the deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles.

The Indian government liberalized drone rules by announcing a 100% subsidy for using UAVs in the agricultural sector.

The Japanese government is developing an autonomous combat drone to detect energy aircraft and eliminate any missile strikes. This development project is believed to be a joint undertaking with the US, with a prototype set to be ready for testing by 2025.

Such government measures have sored demand for lithium-based batteries, which leads the market in terms of product type. Their role in supporting long cycle life and energy efficiency in UAVs propels the segment’s growth. Hence, companies like Shenzhen Grepow Battery are launching high-technology lithium batteries to gain a competitive edge in the market.

However, geographically, North America UAV battery backs the highest position in 2021, with a CAGR of 17.54%. This growth is attributable to increasing military funding, with the United States accounting for a major share. For instance:

The US Department of Transportation FAA invested $2.7 million to support research on UAVs used in disaster preparedness, creating a high demand for Li-ion, fuel cells, etc.

The Federal government allocated around $7.5 billion to the Pentagon for the employment of numerous robotic technologies, including UAVs, for air, ground, maritime, and other domains.

Transport Canada introduced a Drone Strategy to 2025 program to provide a strategic vision for drones, raising awareness about their significance and untapped economic potential that will drive the sector’s growth.

Industry-wise Outlook: Surveillance Measures Widens Scope

Commercial, consumer, and industry verticals are key categories supporting the market’s growth. Among these, Defense, government, & law enforcement secures the majority of shares in the industry vertical segment. The high demand in the sector has guided companies like Boeing to develop drones like MQ-25 Stingray aerial refueling. In 2021, the drone completed carrier-based testing. And in early 2022, it became the first drone to refuel a Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet. As a result, prominent players like General Atomics Aeronautical and AeroVironment Inc have integrated new technologies to develop high-endurance batteries, thereby creating opportunities for the UAV battery market.

Commercial Drones to Star with Augmented Applications

Over the last few years, the commercial application of drones has expanded from photography to monitoring agricultural land, paving the path for smart operations. Their adoption in the e-commerce sector is also expected to soar over the near future. Companies like Amazon are fueling the adoption with the launch of Prime Air Fixed-wing Drones for delivery purposes. Although the market is projected to strengthen, it faces certain challenges such as:

Issues arise from a series of electrical malfunctions mid-flight and other thermal runaway complications.

Stringent regulations that are restricting the transport of unmanned aerial vehicles.

Nevertheless, the ongoing expansion in industries and capitalization from geographies are projected to create prospects for the UAV battery market over the forecast period.

FAQs:

Q1) What is the size of the UAV battery market?

The UAV battery market was valued at $4500.80 million in 2021 and is expected to attain around $13481.66 million by the year 2028.

Q2) Who are the big players in the UAV battery market?

Plug Power, Intelligent Energy, Sion Power, Eagle Picher Technologies, Inventus Power, Shenzhen Grepow Battery, Epsilor, HES Energy Systems, RRC Power Solutions, and Doosan Corporation are some players studied in the report.

[aviationanddefence1]

Global defense Inertial Measurement Unit market reports

A device called an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) uses accelerometers and gyroscopes to measure and report force, respectively, and angular rate. Defense inertial measurement units monitor a number of important factors, two of which are the specific gravity and the angular rate of an object. It should be noted that a magnetometer, which measures the magnetic field surrounding the system, is an optional part of this arrangement. By combining a magnetometer into a Defence Inertial Unit, which filters algorithms to determine orientation information results in a device, an apparatus known as an Attitude and Heading Reference Systems (ARHS) is constructed.

One inertial sensor may be able to perceive just measurements along or around one axis, according to the general operation of an inertial measurement unit. To get a three-dimensional solution, three different inertial sensors have to be mounted in an orthogonal cluster, or triad. This trio of inertial sensors arranged in a triad is referred to as a 3-axis inertial sensor since each of the three axes may yield a single measurement from the sensors. This kind of inertial system, which provides two independent measures along each of the three axes for a total of six measurements, is called a 6-axis system. It consists of a 3-axis accelerometer and 3-axis gyroscope.

Main elements propelling the market's expansion:

The market for inertial measurement units is expected to rise as a result of the growing use of autonomous cars and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in both the defense and commercial sectors. The demand for MEMS-based IMU technology is increased by the global defense Inertial Measurement Unit market reports ability to display the precise location of the automotive system in real-time.

Trends impacting the market's expansion:

One of the primary drivers of the growth of the defense inertial measurement units market is the growing use of gyroscopes in the defense industry. The instrument is used to both stabilize the angular velocity and measure the precise velocity. The demand for MEMS-based technology, which enables end users in the commercial automobile and defense sectors to get exact information about their surroundings, is driving the overall growth dynamics.

Dynamics of the Market:

The defense inertial measurement unit is expected to have higher research-based expenditure, which would propel market expansion. The expansion of defense inertial measurement units is also expected to be driven by the rising market penetration of unmanned systems. IMUs are currently widely used in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), AGVs, and other robots that need to know their altitude and position in space.

Advancements:

Another area of research using inertial measurement units that is becoming more and more prominent is collaborative robot research. The focus of the study is on the positioning of human workers who collaborate with collaborative robots. The deployment of human workers is required to achieve safe human-robot cooperation. Vision and ranging sensors will be used to determine the workers' positions. On the other hand, IMU can be used to determine both the operator's position and the altitude. Compared to the previous technology, which frequently only recorded the operator's approximate location and direction, the motion capture system based on IMUs can follow the movement of the operator's full body, making it more appropriate for human-robot collaboration.

[aviationanddefence]

Global defense AI market report

In the military, artificial intelligence, or AI, refers to the mixing of cutting-edge technology with existing military hardware to boost its power and effectiveness. The developed nation's investments will be concentrated in the military sector. These expenditures go towards the R&D of new technological developments as well as the development of wartime equipment. AI-equipped military systems manage large amounts of data efficiently. Because AI in the military has better decision-making and computational skills, they have better self-regulation and self-control. Autonomous weapon platforms use computer vision to track and recognise objects.

Protection Radars and automatic identification systems can provide valuable information when they are equipped with artificial intelligence (AI). Therefore, the development of artificial intelligence in the military is fueled by the upgrading of military tools, equipment, and weaponry with the newest technology. The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence may have consequences for national security. AI is being developed by defense agencies across the globe, including the US, China, Russia, and the EU, for a variety of military uses. Logistics, information operations, cyber operations, command and control, intelligence gathering and analysis, and many autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles are among the industries utilizing AI (Artificial Intelligence).

The primary driver of the defense artificial intelligence market's expansion:

The primary driver of the Global defense AI market report expansion is the development of sophisticated military hardware. Conflicts between nations have strengthened defense forces, led to increasing acquisition of cutting-edge weaponry enabled by artificial intelligence, and resulted in the integration of fresh technology into the established system. Governments designate specialized divisions to plan, implement, and initiate artificial intelligence capabilities into their current equipment and to develop new capabilities.

Trends impacting the market's expansion:

Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to grow in the defense industry in the coming years due to its applications in the military, including object location, underwater mine detection using neural networks, automated logistics through the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles and unmanned ground vehicles, big data analytics for improved decision-making, and bioinspired robots. The growth of artificial intelligence (AI) in defense is also anticipated given the increase in expenditures being made in the integration and development of robots and AI as well as the large amount of defense budget allocated to R&D and the purchase of AI-based equipment.

Dynamics of the Market:

SIPRI reports that there is a rise in military spending, which is a result of international conflicts that push nations to bolster their defense industries. Artificial intelligence raises questions about potential mistakes in intricate military scenarios. Concerns are voiced, arguing that human control over robots is required to offer humanitarian protection as more governments employ AI-powered technologies for automation and monitoring. Concerns about whether the government is surreptitiously creating "Automated Killer Robots" in order to win the Artificial Intelligence Arms Race are also held by groups such as Human Rights Watch.

Advancements:

The US Air Force gave Soartech a contract to improve the AWACS mission's voice recognition and cognitive agent training capabilities. Five surrogate aircraft that can train an aircraft's brain to analyze, comprehend, and communicate with other platforms during combat have successfully undergone testing by US Boeing. In order to facilitate the operation of counter-unmanned aircraft systems, multi-domain intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and unmanned aircraft systems, CACI International purchased Ascent vision technologies. One of the most powerful nations in Asia awarded Israel-RAFAEL Advanced Defence weapons a USD 200 million deal for its Spike ATGMs, electro-optically guided missiles, SPICE 2000 air-to-surface weapons, tactical, and advanced communication systems.

[aerospace-and-defence]

The Defense Cybersecurity Market is estimated to be USD 36.9 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 49.4 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2023 to 2028.

[defenseemarketre]

Global Defense Market Size

We at AnD Market Reports are committed to providing you with the most comprehensive and up-to-date research reports in the Aviation, Space and Defense markets.

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[electronalytics]

5G Technology in Defense Market

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Amazon's bestselling "bitter lemon" energy drink was bottled delivery driver piss

Today (Oct 20), I'm in Charleston, WV at Charleston's Taylor Books from 12h-14h.

For a brief time this year, the bestselling "bitter lemon drink" on Amazon was "Release Energy," which consisted of the harvested urine of Amazon delivery drivers, rebottled for sale by Catfish UK prankster Oobah Butler in a stunt for a new Channel 4 doc, "The Great Amazon Heist":

https://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-great-amazon-heist

Collecting driver piss is surprisingly easy. Amazon, you see, puts its drivers on a quota that makes it impossible for them to drive safely, park conscientiously, or, indeed, fulfill their basic human biological needs. Amazon has long waged war on its employees' kidneys, marking down warehouse workers for "time off task" when they visit the toilets.

As tales of drivers pissing – and shitting! – in their vans multiplied, Amazon took decisive action. The company enacted a strict zero tolerance policy for drivers returning to the depot with bottles of piss in their vans.

That's where Butler comes in: the roads leading to Amazon delivery depots are lined with bottles of piss thrown out of delivery vans by drivers who don't want to lose their jobs, which made harvesting the raw material for "Release Energy" a straightforward matter.

Butler was worried that he wouldn't be able to list his product on Amazon because he didn't have the requisite "food and drinks licensing" certificates, so he listed his drink in Amazon's refillable pump dispenser category. But Amazon's systems detected the mismatch and automatically shifted the product into the drinks section.

Butler enlisted some confederates to place orders for his drink, and it quickly rocketed to the top of Amazon's listings for the category, which led to Amazon's recommendation engine pushing the item on people who weren't in on the gag. When these orders came in, Butler pulled the plug, but not before an Amazon rep telephoned him to pitch him turning packaging, shipping and fulfillment over to Amazon:

https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-let-its-drivers-urine-be-sold-as-an-energy-drink/

The Release Energy prank was just one stunt Butler pulled for his doc; he also went undercover at an Amazon warehouse, during a period when Amazon hired an extra 1,000 workers for its warehouses in Coventry, UK, in a successful bid to dilute pro-union sentiment in his workforce in advance of a key union vote:

https://jacobin.com/2023/10/the-great-amazon-heist-oobah-butler-review

Butler's stint as an Amazon warehouse worker only lasted a couple of days, ending when Amazon recognized him and fired him.

The contrast between Amazon's ability to detect an undercover reporter and its inability to spot bottles of piss being marketed as bitter lemon energy drink says it all, really. Corporations like Amazon hire vast armies of "threat intelligence" creeps who LARP at being CIA superspies, subjecting employees and activists to intense and often illegal surveillance.

But while Amazon's defensive might is laser-focused on the threat of labor organizers and documentarians, the company can't figure out that one of its bestselling products is bottles of its tormented drivers' own urine.

In the USA, the FTC is suing Amazon for its monopolistic tactics, arguing that the company has found ways to raise prices and reduce quality by trapping manufacturers and sellers with its logistics operation, taking $0.45-$0.51 out of every dollar they earn and forcing them to raise prices at all retailers:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/04/25/greedflation/#commissar-bezos

The Release Energy stunt shows where Amazon's priorities are. Not only did Release Energy get listed on Amazon without any quality checks, the company actually nudged it into a category where it was more likely to be consumed by a person. The only notice the company took of Release Energy was in its logistics and manufacturing department – the part of the business that extracts the monopoly rents at issue in the FTC case – which tracked Butler down in order to sell him these services.

The drivers whose piss Butler collected don't work directly for Amazon, they work for a Delivery Service Partner. These DSPs are victims of a pyramid scheme that Amazon set up. DSP operators lease vans and pay to have them skinned in Amazon livery and studded with Amazon sensors. They take out long-term leases on depots, and hire drivers who dress in Amazon uniforms. Their drivers are minutely monitored by Amazon, down to the movements of their eyeballs.

But none of this is "Amazon" – it's all run by an "entrepreneur," whom Amazon can cut loose without notice, leaving them with unfairly terminated employees, outstanding workers' comp claims, a fleet of Amazon-skinned vehicles and unbreakable facilities leases:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/04/17/revenge-of-the-chickenized-reverse-centaurs/

Speaking to Wired, Amazon denied that it forces its drivers to piss in bottles, but Butler clearly catches a DSP dispatcher telling drivers "If you pee in a bottle and leave it [in the vehicle], you will get a point for that" – that is, the part you get punished for isn't the peeing, it's the leaving.

Amazon's defense against the FTC is that it spares no effort to keep its marketplace safe. As Amazon spokesperson James Drummond says, they use "industry-leading tools to prevent genuinely unsafe products being listed." But the only industry-leading tools in evidence are tools to bust unions and screw suppliers.

In her landmark Yale Law Review paper, "Amazon's Antitrust Paradox," FTC Chair Lina Khan makes a brilliant argument that Amazon's alleged benefits to "consumers" are temporary at best, illusory at worst:

https://www.yalelawjournal.org/note/amazons-antitrust-paradox

In Butler's documentary, Khan's hypothesis is thoroughly validated: here's a company extracting hundreds of billions from merchants who raise prices to compensate, and those monopoly rents are "invested" in union-busting and countermeasures against investigative journalists, while the tools to keep you from accidentally getting a bottle of piss in the mail are laughably primitive.

Truly, Amazon is the apex predator of the platform era:

https://pluralistic.net/ApexPredator

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/10/20/release-energy/#the-bitterest-lemon

My next novel is The Lost Cause, a hopeful novel of the climate emergency. Amazon won't sell the audiobook, so I made my own and I'm pre-selling it on Kickstarter!