The global airborne optronics market was valued at USD 2.03 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to USD 4.96 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 8.8% during the forecast period (2024–2032). In 2023, North America led the market with a 34.98% share, driven by robust defense spending and the presence of major aerospace companies.
What is Airborne Optronics?
Airborne optronics integrates optical and electronic technologies to enhance surveillance, targeting, and navigation in both manned and unmanned aircraft. It leverages infrared sensors, digital imaging, laser rangefinders, and other systems to deliver high-resolution, real-time data to operators, boosting mission effectiveness, safety, and situational awareness.
Key Companies Profiled
- L3Harris Technologies (U.S.)
- Safran (France)
- Elbit Systems (Israel)
- Hensoldt AG (Germany)
- Northrop Grumman (U.S.)
- Lockheed Martin (U.S.)
- Collins Aerospace (U.S.)
- FLIR Systems (U.S.)
- Thales (France)
- Leonardo S.p.A. (Italy)
Information Source:
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/airborne-optronics-market-108108
Market Segmentation Highlights
By Aircraft Type:
- Fixed Wing (Largest Segment, 2023): Widely adopted for surveillance, targeting, and intelligence missions due to superior flight endurance and payload capacity.
- Rotary Wing
- Urban Air Mobility
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
By Application:
- Military (Dominated in 2023): Driven by modernization initiatives requiring advanced reconnaissance and targeting systems.
- Commercial
- Space
By Technology:
- Multispectral (Leading Segment): Offers wide spectral coverage, cost-efficiency, and strong performance in military surveillance and detection.
- Hyperspectral
Market Drivers
- Growing UAV Deployment: Drones require advanced optronics (EO/IR systems, laser rangefinders) for missions involving surveillance, reconnaissance, and target acquisition.
- Defense Modernization: Nations investing in high-performance airborne platforms are boosting demand for compact and AI-enabled optronics systems.
- Strategic Collaborations: For instance, Safran Electronics & Defense signed a deal with Leonardo S.p.A. to supply Euroflir 610 optronics systems for the Eurodrone program, enhancing Europe’s ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) capabilities.
Regional Insights
- North America: Leads due to robust domestic aerospace industry and high military investment.
- Europe: Strong growth due to established defense infrastructure in France, Germany, and the U.K.
- Asia Pacific: Fastest-growing region with rising defense budgets in China and India, and increasing local manufacturing capabilities.
Competitive Landscape
Leading players are heavily investing in R&D, focusing on multispectral/hyperspectral imaging, AI integration, and compact system designs. Mergers, acquisitions, and international collaborations are shaping the competitive dynamics.
Recent Development:
May 2024 – The U.S. Air Force awarded SNC a multibillion-dollar contract to modernize the E-4B “Nightwatch” aircraft, used for critical C3 operations by top U.S. defense leaders. This program underscores the importance of airborne optronics in next-generation mission platforms.
