Military Data Links Market Research Report: By Platform (Ground, Airborne, Naval, Unmanned Systems, and Weapons), by Application (Command and Control, Intelligence, Surveillance, & Reconnaissance, and Radio Communications), by Component (Terminals, Radio Sets, Modems, Routers, Controllers, Transceivers, Monitors, and Others), by Band (Ka/K Band, X-Band (Air to Ground), Ku Band, S-Band, C-Band, L-Band, HF Band, VHF Band, and UHF Band), by Frequency (High Frequency, and Ultra-High Frequency), by Link Type (Link 11, Link 16, Link 22, JREAP-A,

Global Military Data Links Market Overview

Military Data Links Market Size was valued at USD 6,970.7 million in 2023. The Military Data Links Market industry is projected to grow from USD 7,325.5 Million in 2024 to USD 11,084.4 million by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% during the forecast period (2024- 2032). The Military Data Links market is driven by the rise in global military spending, with a focus mostly on modernizing armed forces and developing network-centric warfare capabilities. It will be further supported by the augmented threats of cyber warfare and electronic warfare, boosting the demand for data link technologies that are secure, reliable, and resilient. Nevertheless, the high cost of developing and deploying advanced data link systems and limited interoperability between disparate data link standards and protocols in use by various military forces are some of the challenges the market faces. The development of jamming-resistant and hack resistant data link technologies, along with the expanding use of unmanned aerial, ground, and maritime systems reliant on robust data links that support command, control, and information-sharing, presents a high magnitude of opportunities. Stakeholders capitalizing on the large and continuous growth in demand of the military data links market will acknowledge approaches to alleviate these challenges in technology and interoperability issues.

As per Analyst at MRFR, “The global market for military data links is witnessing a significant growth rate driven by various factors, such as integration of advanced technologies, such as rise in global military spending, and development of jamming-resistant and hack resistant data link technologies”.

FIGURE 1: MILITARY DATA LINKS MARKET SIZE 2019-2032 (USD MILLION)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Military Data Links Market Driver

RISE OF CYBER WARFARE AND ELECTRONIC WARFARE

Cyber Warfare (CW) and Electronic Warfare (EW) are two separate areas related to expertise that turn out to be very complementary under the umbrella of information warfare and network-centric warfare. Cyber warfare is the form of warfare in which information systems and the internet are used in the execution of strategic or military attacks against states or firms, including techniques such as denial-of-service attacks, advanced persistent threats, malware, and spear phishing for compromising adversary computer networks, conducting data theft, and disrupting communications. Such cyber operations, from a military point of view, may support friendly information systems' defense or the exploitation and disruption of adversary systems.

Electronic warfare, on the other hand, deals with the use of directed energy to control the electromagnetic spectrum. This could involve specially designed jamming, overpowering, or deceiving of information that is managed by computerized systems or electronic platforms such as surveillance satellites or telecommunication satellites. In many ways, electronic warfare and cyber warfare synergize with one another. For example, both would work together as complementary disciplines toward an information warfare strategy. The war between Russia and Ukraine has brought into the limelight that cyber warfare has evolved as a dire factor wherein there is an increase in cyberattacks against government entities. According to a published report by Tutti i diritti riservati, during the first half of 2023, 49 notable cyber-attacks hit government entities in at least 27 countries—11% higher than for the same period in the previous year. Of these, 16% have been targeted at the United States in particular, likely attributed to Russian hackers. As military operations have become more dependent on networked systems and electronic capabilities, the need to secure military data link solutions have become paramount. Competition is stiffening in how modern military data link systems—the key enablers of significant situational awareness, command, control, and operational effectiveness on the contemporary battlefield—can be improved amidst cyber warfare and electronic warfare.

Military Data Links Market Segment Insights:

Military Data Links Platform Insights

Based on platform, Military Data Links Market has been segmented into ground, airborne, naval, unmanned systems, and weapons. The ground segment comprises several types of platforms and applications that have different requirements and issues. It is an element of great importance in military operations, as it provides commanding, control, and situational awareness forces with secure and reliable communication channels for the exchange of information. The airborne segment of the military data links market will be crucial to achieving air superiority and support for various military operations; it comprises fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft with special data link requirements and challenges. The naval segment dominates the military data links market in maritime campaigns since it serves secure communication, command and control for several naval assets, both surface and subsurface. Military Data Links Market acts as a critical enabler for unmanned systems operating either on the ground, in the air, or underwater. Such platforms need robust and reliable data links to sustain remote control, telemetry, and exchange of information related to specifically assigned missions.

Military Data Links Application Insights

Based on application, Military Data Links Market has been segmented into command and control, intelligence, surveillance, & reconnaissance, and radio communication. Command and Control (C2) is an important application area of military data links, enabling secure and reliable communication between military units and headquarters. The amount of data links in this sector authorizes the flow of real-time information, tactical orders, and important data in decision-making. This enables perfect coordination, increased situational awareness, and effectual commanding and controlling of military operations. Subsegments of the C2 application would then be battlefield management, airspace management, and naval fleet control.

Military Data Links Component Insights

Based on component, Military Data Links Market has been segmented into terminals, radio sets, modems, routers, controllers, transceivers, monitors, and others. The terminals are the user's primary interface to access and interact with the military data links system. They provide the physical means and software-related solutions necessary for the transmission and reception of data, as well as control and monitoring of the total network. In other words, they are crucial in effectively and securely communicating information between units, command centres of military forces, and other linked assets.

Military Data Links Band Insights

Based on band, the Military Data Links Market has been segmented into Ka/K Band, X-Band (Air to Ground), Ku Band, S-Band, C-Band, L-Band, HF Band, VHF Band, and UHF Band. The HF band is used in military data links for long-distance, beyond-line-of-sight communications, especially under harsh environments.

Military Data Links Frequency Insights

Based on frequency, global military data links marker has been segmented into high frequency and ultra-high frequency. The UHF band covers the frequency range from 300 MHz to 3 GHz. This band finds extensive usage for various applications related to military data links, such as satellite communications, ground-to-air links, and tactical data exchange. Advantages associated with UHF data links place them at a better position than other bands, with features such as better obstacle penetration properties, higher bandwidth, and the capability to support mobile and portable communication devices.

FIGURE 2: MILITARY DATA LINKS MARKET, BY FREQUENCY, 2023 VS 2032 (USD MILLION)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Military Data Links Link Type Insights

Based on link type, Military Data Links Market has been segmented into Link 11, Link 16, Link 22, JREAP-A, JREAP-C, and VMF. Link 16 is a jam-resistant, secure military data link for the exchange of tactical information amongst air, land, and sea-based platforms. Inherent in JTIDS, it allows for the transfer of vital data—it handles target tracks, sensor data, and command and control information—in near-real-time across the battlespace.

Military Data Links Point-of-Sale Insights

Based on point-of-sale, military data links market has been segmented into OEM and Aftermarket. The OEM segment pertains to the sale of data link components, systems, and services that are availed directly by the manufacturers of military platforms such as aircraft, ground vehicles, and naval vessels. OEMs have a very significant role in incorporating data link technology into the design and development of such platforms to ensure seamless compatibility and optimal performance. Large volumes, long-term contracts, and an integrated relationship between the data link providers and military equipment manufacturers characterize this segment.

Military Data Links Military Standard Insights

Based on military standard, military data links market has been segmented into MIL STD 6011, MIL STD 6016, MIL STD 6017, MIL STD 6020, and MIL STD 3011. The MIL-STD 6017 standard outlines the requirements for the Tactical Digital Information Link, or TADIL, B, also referred to as the Link 11B protocol. This is a standard for the interchange of tactical data and information between airborne and surface platforms in military operations, ensuring better coordination, situation awareness, and decision-making support.

Military Data Links Regional Insights

By Region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa and South and Central America. North America consists of the U.S, Canada, and Mexico. The North America Military Data Links Market forms an integral part of the global military data links landscape, mainly driven by huge investments and technological advancements in the region. It can be stated without hesitation that the United States is on the pertaining end of developmental and deployment initiatives related to cutting-edge military data link technologies to be infused into its armed forces.

Europe region consists of Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Turkey, and Rest of Europe for the study. Military data links represent one of the prominent and growing segments of the global military data links ecosystem. One such critical development in this region is the project "ESSOR MIDS" between four European countries—France, Germany, Italy, and Spain—and the European Commission to implement a next-generation secured data and voice communication system based on the Link 16 Tactical Data Link, TADIL C standard. This project, led by the European defence and security company HENSOLDT, testifies that Europe is committed to enhancing its military communications capabilities towards better interoperability in joint operations.

Geopolitical tensions have been escalating in the Asia-Pacific region, and so has the security landscape. Ranging from the Philippines' claims over the South China Sea disputed by China to the instances of Chinese combat drones that have inched into Taiwanese air space, there have been many pointers toward the immediate need for much more advanced real-time intelligence and sophisticated security measures. Accordingly, countries in the region are modernizing to improve maritime, air defense, and communications capabilities.

FIGURE 3: MILITARY DATA LINKS MARKET SIZE BY REGION 2023 VS 2032

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Further, the major countries studied in the market report are the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, and India.

Military Data Links Key Market Players & Competitive Insights

The Military Data Links Market is characterized by the presence of many global, regional, and local airlines. The regional market is highly competitive, with all the players continually competing to gain a larger market share. Therefore, airlines must provide cost-effective and efficient services to survive and succeed in a competitive market environment.

The growth of the airlines is dependent on market conditions, government support, and industrial development. Thus, the players should focus on expanding their presence and improving their services. According to MRFR analysis, the growth of the Military Data Links Market is dependent on market conditions.

The growth of the players is dependent on market conditions, and defence expenditure. Thus, the players should focus on expanding their presence and improving their services. According to MRFR analysis, the growth of the Military Data Links Market is dependent on market conditions. The key players in the market are L3Harris Technologies, Honeywell International, General Dynamics Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Elbit System, Leonardo S.P.A, BAE Systems, Raytheon Technologies Corporation, Thales Group, and Northrop Grumman. Major companies in the military data links market compete in terms of availability, quality, price, and technology. Regional and local players with small market shares have a significant presence.

Key Companies in the Military Data Links Market include.

• L3Harris Technologies


• Honeywell International


• General Dynamics Corporation


• Lockheed Martin Corporation


• Elbit System


• Leonardo S.P.A


• BAE Systems


• Raytheon Technologies Corporation


• Thales Group


• Northrop Grumman


• Others

Military Data Links Industry Developments

• In June 2024, Honeywell announced that it has agreed to acquire CAES Systems Holdings LLC (CAES) from private equity firm Advent International for approximately $1.9 billion in an all-cash transaction.


• In April 2024, Lockheed Martin Australia and The Department of Defence Sign Strategic Partnership Head Contract to Advance Australia’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence Capability.


• In May 2024, RTX’s Collins Aerospace delivers first TruNet™ AR-1500 networked communications airborne radio to Europe.

Military Data Links Market Segmentation:

Military Data Links Platform Outlook

• Ground
  
  
  
  • Ground Control Stations/Command Center
  
  
  • Armored Vehicles
  
  
  • Soldiers
  
  
  
  


• Airborne
  
  
  
  • Fixed
  
  
  • Rotary
  
  
  
  


• Naval
  
  
  
  • Ships
  
  
  • Submarines
  
  
  
  


• Unmanned Systems
  
  
  
  • UGV
  
  
  • UAS
  
  
  • Underwater Vehicles
  
  
  
  


• Weapons

Military Data Links Application Outlook

• Command and Control


• Intelligence, Surveillance, & Reconnaissance


• Radio Communications

Military Data Links Component Outlook

• Terminals


• Radio Sets


• Modems


• Routers


• Controllers


• Transceivers


• Monitors


• Others

Military Data Links Band Outlook

• Ka/K Band
  
  
  
  • GEO
  
  
  • LEO/MEO
  
  
  
  


• X-Band (Air to Ground)


• Ku Band


• S-Band


• C-Band


• L-Band


• HF Band


• VHF Band


• UHF Band

Military Data Links Frequency Outlook

• High Frequency


• Ultra-High Frequency

Military Data Links Link Type Outlook

• Link 11


• Link 16


• Link 22


• JREAP-A


• JREAP-C


• VMF

Military Data Links Point-of-Sale Outlook

• OEM


• Aftermarket

Military Data Links Military Standard Outlook

• MIL STD 6011


• MIL STD 6016


• MIL STD 6017


• MIL STD 6020


• MIL STD 3011

Military Data Links Regional Outlook

• North America


• US


• Canada


• Mexico


• Europe


• Germany


• UK


• France


• Italy


• Spain


• Austria


• Netherlands


• Belgium


• Sweden


• Denmark


• Norway


• Poland


• Portugal


• Turkey


• Rest of Europe


• Asia-Pacific


• China


• Japan


• India


• South Korea


• Australia


• Rest of Asia-Pacific


• Middle East & Africa


• Saudi Arabia


• UAE


• Qatar


• South Africa


• Rest of Middle East & Africa


• South & Central America


• Brazil


• Argentina


• Chile

Rest of South & Central America