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The global military radar market was valued at USD 14.8 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2025 to 2034.
The global increase in defense budgets, driven by regional security concerns and geopolitical tensions, has strengthened investments in advanced military technologies, including radar systems. Nations are focusing on modernizing their defense infrastructure to maintain technological superiority and ensure national security. The U.S. Department of State has approved a USD 105 million sale of mobile ground control approach (GCA) radar systems to Poland, with L3Harris Technologies serving as the primary contractor.
Report Attribute | Details |
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Base Year: | 2024 |
Military Radar Market Size in 2024: | USD 14.8 Billion |
Forecast Period: | 2025 – 2034 |
Forecast Period 2025 – 2034 CAGR: | 5.6% |
2025 – 2034 Value Projection: | USD 25.1 Billion |
Historical Data for: | 2021 – 2024 |
No. of Pages: | 280 |
Tables, Charts & Figures: | 280 |
Segments covered: | Component, waveform, technology, range, platform, application |
Growth Drivers: |
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Pitfalls & Challenges: |
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The package encompasses UHF radios, interrogators, navigation tools, test equipment, spare parts, and technical documentation, alongside comprehensive training and support services. This acquisition aims to enhance Poland's air traffic control and defense capabilities, supporting U.S. foreign policy objectives of strengthening NATO allies and improving regional security. The purchase aligns with Poland's military modernization program, backed by its expanded defense budget, to upgrade operational capabilities and maintain compliance with international aviation standards. Defense agencies are also directing funds toward integrating radar systems with artificial intelligence and data analytics to enable faster and more accurate decision-making. This ongoing modernization effort is expected to drive the military radar market's growth in the forecast period.
Recent developments in radar technology have transformed modern military systems' capabilities. The integration of phased-array radar, digital signal processing, and multi-function radar systems has improved detection accuracy, range, and multiple target tracking capabilities. Modern radar systems now feature higher resolution, reduced probability of interception, and enhanced anti-jamming capabilities, making them more effective against advanced enemy tactics. These improvements are essential for detecting and countering stealth technology, drones, and hypersonic missiles.
For instance, Honeywell received a $103 million contract from the U.S. Army to provide its Next-Generation APN-209 radar altimeter system for Army aircraft. The system replaces the APN-209, which has operated since 1975. The Next-Generation APN-209 incorporates improved radar technology to enhance flight safety and mission performance. This advancement reflects the broader military aviation industry's transition to modernized radar systems.
The military radar industry is evolving through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies. This integration improves data processing and decision-making capabilities, enabling real-time analysis of complex battle scenarios. Lockheed Martin and Finnish radar imaging company Iceye are developing artificial intelligence target recognition technology for Finland's military. The collaboration utilizes Iceye's synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery to develop automated target recognition (ATR) algorithms. These algorithms analyze satellite images to identify objects and targets in all weather conditions and times of day. The technology will support Finland's F-35 tactical aviation program through space-based intelligence and analytics capabilities. The ATR algorithms will be incorporated into mobile intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems.
Multi-domain operations (MDO) represent a key development in the military radar market. Modern military strategies require coordinated operations across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains, with radar systems providing comprehensive situational awareness. These systems integrate with multiple platforms and networks to create a unified defense ecosystem. The U.S. Air Force granted Lockheed Martin a $276 million contract for the ARTS-V3 program to develop the variable aperture digital radar (VADR) system. The system incorporates X-band and C-band radars for aircrew training against advanced threats. The radar systems provide early warning, target acquisition, situational awareness, and integrated air and missile defense capabilities to support U.S. military training requirements.
The high costs of advanced radar systems and their complex integration requirements limit adoption, particularly among nations with smaller defense budgets. The growing demand for next-generation radar in modern military operations, including artificial intelligence integration, creates opportunities for innovation and strategic partnerships. Additionally, the increasing deployment of radar systems in autonomous and multi-domain operations drives market expansion. However, strict export controls and international arms regulations restrict cross-border sales of radar systems. Companies must comply with regional and global defense standards to maintain market access and prevent legal and operational issues.
Based on component, the market is segmented into antennas, transmitters, receivers, power amplifiers, duplexers, digital signal processors, stabilization systems, graphical user interfaces, and others. In 2024, the antennas segment accounted for the largest market share with 24.7% share.
The antenna segment is essential in the military radar market as it determines radar performance in detection, tracking, and targeting. Antennas perform the fundamental function of converting electrical signals into electromagnetic waves and vice versa, which defines the radar system's range, accuracy, and resolution. Active electronically scanned arrays (AESAs) and other phased-array antennas are becoming standard equipment due to their electronic beam-steering capabilities, which improve system responsiveness and reliability. These technological advancements enhance situational awareness and operational capabilities in modern defense systems.
Antenna systems are fundamental components in radar systems across naval, airborne, and land-based platforms. The current focus on miniaturization and multi-functional antennas enables integration into various military platforms while meeting space and weight requirements without compromising performance. The integration of 5G technology and artificial intelligence is driving antenna system evolution to handle more complex signal processing and data management. These developments ensure radar systems can meet the increasing demands of modern military operations.
Based on platform, the market is divided into ground-based, naval, airborne, space. In 2024, the airborne segment is the fastest-growing segment with a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period.
The airborne platform segment in the military radar market enhances surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat capabilities of defense forces. Airborne radars, installed on fighter jets, bombers, surveillance aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), provide long-range detection and tracking capabilities essential for countering advanced threats like stealth aircraft and missile systems. The integration of phased-array and AESA technology in modern airborne radars delivers improved scanning speeds, wide frequency coverage, and high-resolution imaging, enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness.
Recent developments in miniaturization and signal processing enable the integration of complex radar systems into various airborne platforms without compromising weight or performance. The increasing adoption of unmanned systems and next-generation fighter jets creates demand for lightweight, efficient radars capable of network integration with other military assets. Current airborne radar systems incorporate artificial intelligence-driven data fusion and advanced algorithms to improve target identification and real-time threat response. These technological improvements support modern warfare requirements for rapid decision-making and multi-domain operations.
North America is expected to reach over USD 10 billion by 2034. North America, particularly the U.S., is a significant player in the military radar market due to its strong defense budget and commitment to technological advancements. The U.S. invests heavily in modern radar systems for surveillance, early warning, and combat management. Innovations in AI and radar integration support advanced military operations, contributing to national security. Canada's defense sector also participates in radar system development, focusing on enhancing its defense infrastructure and collaborating with allied nations on advanced radar technology projects.
China has invested heavily in advanced radar technology as part of its military modernization strategy. The country focuses on developing multi-functional radar systems capable of long-range detection, early warning, and tracking to enhance its air defense and missile systems. China has integrated its radar technology with artificial intelligence for enhanced data processing and real-time decision-making. The focus on surveillance and defense capabilities reflects China's aim to strengthen its military reach and maintain strategic advantages, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
Germany advances its military radar capabilities by modernizing defense systems to meet NATO standards and strengthen its security posture. The country prioritizes research and development in radar technology for situational awareness, missile defense, and air surveillance. Germany's partnerships with European defense contractors enhance its radar systems. The integration of radar with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence improves real-time threat analysis and supports comprehensive defense strategies, aligning with Germany's commitment to collective European security.
Japan's radar market development centers on national security and disaster prevention. The country upgrades its radar systems to enhance maritime and aerial surveillance in response to regional security concerns. Japan emphasizes radar technologies that provide long-range detection, early warning, and threat identification capabilities. The integration of artificial intelligence and advanced data processing enables more efficient use of radar information in military operations and monitoring activities. Japan's radar advancements aim to maintain defense capabilities and ensure safety in the Asia-Pacific region.
South Korea enhances its radar systems to strengthen defense against potential threats, particularly from North Korea. The country invests in advanced radar for missile defense, including systems capable of detecting and intercepting ballistic missiles. South Korea's radar technology incorporates artificial intelligence, sensors, and data analytics for improved situational awareness and rapid response. Collaboration with the United States and other allies contributes to its technological advancements, strengthening its air and missile defense capabilities.
Raytheon Technologies Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, and Lockheed Martin Corporation are major players in the military radar industry. Raytheon Technologies produces radar systems for air and missile defense, along with airborne surveillance systems that focus on tracking and signal processing. Northrop Grumman manufactures radar solutions including the AN/TPS-80 and AESA radar systems for air and naval applications. Lockheed Martin develops radar technologies for fighter jets, naval systems, and integrated surveillance, incorporating phased-array and AESA technology to improve situational awareness. These companies integrate artificial intelligence and data fusion capabilities to enhance their radar systems' operational performance.
Major players operating in the military radar industry are:
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