5G in Aerospace & Defense Market Trends and Forecast
The future of the global 5G in aerospace & defense market looks promising with opportunities in the aircraft, airport, homeland security, and military markets. The global 5G in aerospace & defense market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 21.7% from 2025 to 2031. The major drivers for this market are advancements in communication systems, increased demand for high-speed data transfer, and growing investments in defense modernization.
Lucintel forecasts that, within the communication infrastructure category, macro cell will remain larger segment over the forecast period.
Within the end use category, military is expected to witness the highest growth.
In terms of region, APAC is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period.
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Emerging Trends in the 5G in Aerospace & Defense Market
As 5G technology becomes mainstream, certain leading activities in the aerospace and defense industry indicate transformation within these sectors.
• Improved Communication and Data Sharing: 5G networks offer higher data transfer speeds and lower latency than currently available. This allows communication and data sharing between physically remote locations to occur in real-time. This trend is enabling more efficient operations in both military and aerospace, supporting advancements in autonomous systems and drones.
• Military Private 5G Networks: High-speed private 5G networks are being set up on military bases by governments to improve communications at these sensitive facilities. Such networks enable better control of sensitive data and facilitate operational security, especially in defense scenarios where real-time information sharing is crucial.
• Adoption of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS): A notable trend is the increasing integration of drones and UAVs into military tasks. These systems can function more effectively with the real-time data transmission drones and UAVs require for surveillance, reconnaissance, and mission-critical activities, thanks to the low latency of 5G technology.
• 5G-Enabled Autonomous Systems: The development of autonomous systems such as self-driving vehicles and unmanned aircraft in aerospace and defense is being greatly aided by 5G. Low latency enables faster decision-making in complex decision-automated systems, making it easier to operate unmanned ground and aerial vehicles.
• Cybersecurity and Secure Communication: Communication networks are now a key focus due to the increase in the use of warfare and cyber-based threats. As more sensitive data is encrypted, 5G promises greater security in defense systems, ensuring the integrity of critical missions and operations.
These trends are fundamentally transforming the aerospace and defense industries by enabling faster, more secure, and reliable communication while improving operational effectiveness in defense and aerospace activities.
Recent Development in the 5G in Aerospace & Defense Market
New changes in 5G technologies represent one of the major shifts in aerospace and defense technology. Countries are adopting advanced military capabilities and testing innovations in aerospace using 5G solutions.
• Satellite Communications and 5G: 5G technology continues to improve communication satellites and enables remote regions, previously unreachable, to be connected. This improves global military operations and defense communications. Such improvements also enhance coordination with civil response to disasters and global security monitoring.
• Smart Defense Systems: The implementation of 5G in advanced technologies aids communications in field operations, making them faster and more efficient. Improving decision-making, controlling military devices remotely, and sharing information results in more effective military operations.
• Testing of 5G for Drones: Multiple countries, including the United States and China, have begun active testing of 5G technology to allow better control and management of military drones or UAVs. This enables better integration of real-time data from defense and reconnaissance surveillance systems.
• Advanced Command and Control Networks: With the introduction of 5G, command and control centers in military operations can now utilize more advanced systems with real-time updates on troop movements and tactical adjustments. This helps in accomplishing rapid decision-making and operational flexibility in the field for military commanders.
• Improved Cybersecurity: 5G technology is also being implemented to secure communications between military systems and aerospace applications due to the increasing importance of cybersecurity in defense systems. The advanced capabilities of the technology to encrypt communication help secure sensitive defense infrastructure from cyberwarfare.
These advancements are improving efficiency, security, and real-time connectivity in the global 5G-enabled defense and aerospace market, strengthening operational effectiveness and bolstering the economy.
Strategic Growth Opportunities in the 5G in Aerospace & Defense Market
The 5G in aerospace and defense market offers several opportunities for strategic growth, especially with the increasing use of 5G in military and defense operations, as well as advancements in aerospace technologies.
• Integration of 5G Technology in Military Communication Systems: While upgrading military infrastructure, many countries need to implement 5G networks into military communication systems. These integrations will result in faster and more secure communications, which are essential for many defense operations conducted in real-time.
• Development of Autonomous Systems for Defense: The advancement of technology, particularly the application of 5G communication, opens up new possibilities for developing automated systems in defense. This includes unmanned ground vehicles and aerial drones. Superior real-time data transmission will enhance operational capabilities in the field.
• Expansion of 5G Satellite Communication Networks: There is remarkable growth in demand for satellite-based 5G solutions to support secure, high-speed communication from remote locations. These networks enable global military operations while enhancing surveillance and military reconnaissance capabilities.
• Deployment of 5G-Enabled Smart Bases: Private 5G networks are being deployed at military bases to improve operational effectiveness, secure data transfer, and aid in logistics control. This trend creates an increasing market for 5G solutions development and deployment at defense installations.
• Cybersecurity Solutions for 5G Networks: With the acceleration of 5G adoption in defense, cybersecurity solutions have become critical in safeguarding sensitive communication systems. This presents a business opportunity for companies that wish to provide the advanced encryption and protection needed to secure 5G networks.
These opportunities focus on adopting 5G technology in the aerospace and defense market, widening the scope to integrate advanced technological solutions that strengthen the capabilities of defense forces and military infrastructure.
5G in Aerospace & Defense Market Driver and Challenges
Economic, technological, and political changes are some of the underlying factors influencing the 5G in aerospace and defense market. These drivers and challenges impact how companies and countries respond to changing market conditions.
The factors responsible for driving the 5G in aerospace & defense market include:
1. Advancement in Technology: Developments in 5G features, such as low-latency communication and real-time data transfer, are constantly evolving. These innovations foster effective communication and operational systems in defense and aerospace functions.
2. Growing Adoption of Autonomous Systems: The introduction of new technologies is greatly contributing to the demand for 5G networks. Autonomous systems such as UAVs and other aircraft systems can greatly benefit from 5G technology, as it increases operational efficiency and communication speed.
3. Growth in Demand for Secure Military Communication Networks: Increased cyber threats against sensitive military operations have led to the widespread adoption of 5G in defense. Protection against cyberattacks on sensitive defense infrastructure is greatly enhanced with the advent of 5G.
4. Shifts in Strategy: Government spending on defense sectors worldwide is increasing, and capital allocated to advanced communication technologies, including 5G, is expected to grow. Such spending not only modernizes communication technology but also enhances defense systemsÄX%$%X connectivity, surveillance, and real-time operations.
5. Global Rivalry: The race between countries, especially concerning 5G development and its application in defense, is encouraging investment in both 5G infrastructure and defense technology sectors.
Challenges in the 5G in aerospace & defense market are:
1. Infrastructure Maintenance and Security Costs: The expenses associated with employing 5G technologies in defense and aerospace operations can be extremely high and burdensome, especially for budget-constrained countries.
2. Legal Limitations: Changes in legislation regarding 5G spectrum and protective measures could hamper and delay implementation and complicate adherence to regulations.
3. IT Security Threats: Greater network integration invariably heightens the likelihood of cyberattacks. Protecting military networks from possible incursions is a fundamental challenge for the industry.
These issues affect military modernization efforts through investment plans, technological development policies, and strategic direction in the 5G in defense and aerospace markets.
List of 5G Companies in the Aerospace & Defense Market
Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. With these strategies 5G companies in the aerospace & defense market cater increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the 5G companies in the aerospace & defense market are profiled in this report include-
• Airspan Networks Holdings Inc.
• Akkodis Group AG
• AT&T Inc.
• AttoCore Ltd.
• Cisco Systems, Inc.
• Fujitsu Limited
• General Electric Company
5G in Aerospace & Defense Market by Segment
The study includes a forecast for the global 5G in aerospace & defense market by communication infrastructure, frequency, network technology, end use, and region.
5G in Aerospace & Defense Market by Communication Infrastructure [Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• Macro Cell
• Small Cell
5G in Aerospace & Defense Market by Frequency [Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• High
• Low
• Medium
5G in Aerospace & Defense Market by Region [Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• The Rest of the World
Country Wise Outlook for the 5G in Aerospace & Defense Market
The aerospace and defense sectors have recently witnessed the rapid adoption of 5G technology as countries aim to improve operational productivity, facilitate real-time information transfer, and increase communication functions. These nations are pushing forward with technological development in the military, aerospace, and domestic security sectors, emphasizing secure communication systems and infrastructure upgrades.
• United States: The U.S. is noted for applying 5G technology in the aerospace and defense industries in the early stages, pouring funds into smart defense automated military systems. The U.S. Department of Defense is already utilizing 5G networks for secure communications, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) control, and sophisticated military surveillance. The U.S. is making headway with private 5G network rollouts at military bases to improve communication capabilities.
• China: China is already at an advanced stage of implementing 5G technology for military communications, satellites, and aerospace integration. The country has been adopting military-standard 5G systems to support unmanned systems and real-time data relay. In a bid to modernize its defenses, China is considering the use of 5G for command and control and sophisticated smart defense systems for advanced military operations.
• Germany: Germany is investing funds into 5G for use in defense and aerospace, mainly to boost the security of communication networks for military use. The Bundeswehr has been testing ways to improve battlefield connectivity through 5G. Germany is also exploring 5G use in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other defense systems for autonomous operation and faster information transfer for intelligence purposes.
• India: India is attempting to implement 5G for advancements in defense infrastructure. The Indian government is looking to incorporate 5G into air defense, military communications, and drone controls. The country is developing an advanced 5G ecosystem capable of supporting instantaneous data sharing, remote operations, and surveillance as part of its "Digital India" initiative. The defense sector is working on enhancing the speed and quality of communication among the fragmented military commands.
• Japan: With the objective of modernizing communication and data-sharing processes in defense and aerospace, Japan has made the adoption of 5G a top priority. The Self-Defense Forces of Japan are attempting to employ 5G networks for real-time command and control of unmanned vehicles and drone surveillance. Due to growing security threats, Japan is using 5G technology to improve cybersecurity measures and strengthen the defense communication systems within the nation’s security and aerospace domains.
Features of the Global 5G in Aerospace & Defense Market
Market Size Estimates: 5G in aerospace & defense market size estimation in terms of value ($B).
Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends (2019 to 2024) and forecast (2025 to 2031) by various segments and regions.
Segmentation Analysis: 5G in aerospace & defense market size by various segments, such as by communication infrastructure, frequency, network technology, end use, and region in terms of value ($B).
Regional Analysis: 5G in aerospace & defense market breakdown by North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.
Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different communication infrastructure, frequency, network technologies, end uses, and regions for the 5G in aerospace & defense market.
Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the 5G in aerospace & defense market.
Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.
FAQ
Q1. What is the growth forecast for 5G in aerospace & defense market?
Answer: The global 5G in aerospace & defense market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 21.7% from 2025 to 2031.
Q2. What are the major drivers influencing the growth of the 5G in aerospace & defense market?
Answer: The major drivers for this market are advancements in communication systems, increased demand for high-speed data transfer, and growing investments in defense modernization.
Q3. What are the major segments for 5G in aerospace & defense market?
Answer: The future of the 5G in aerospace & defense market looks promising with opportunities in the aircraft, airport, homeland security, and military markets.
Q4. Who are the key 5G companies in aerospace & defense market?
Answer: Some of the key 5G companies in the aerospace & defense market are as follows:
• Airspan Networks Holdings Inc.
• Akkodis Group AG
• AT&T Inc.
• AttoCore Ltd.
• Cisco Systems, Inc.
• Fujitsu Limited
• General Electric Company
Q5. Which 5G in aerospace & defense market segment will be the largest in future?
Answer: Lucintel forecasts that macro cell will remain larger segment over the forecast period.
Q6. In 5G in aerospace & defense market, which region is expected to be the largest in next 5 years?
Answer: APAC is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period.
Q7. Do we receive customization in this report?
Answer: Yes, Lucintel provides 10% customization without any additional cost.
This report answers following 11 key questions:
Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the 5G in aerospace & defense market by communication infrastructure (macro cell and small cell), frequency (high, low, and medium), network technology (fog computing, mobile edge computing, network functions virtualization, and software-defined networking), end use (aircraft, airport, homeland security, and military), and region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World)?
Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.3. Which region will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.4. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?
Q.5. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?
Q.6. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?
Q.7. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?
Q.8. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?
Q.9. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?
Q.10. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?
Q.11. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?
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