5G In Defense Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends And Forecast (2024 - 2031)

• The adoption of private 5G networks is becoming a strategic priority in defence, offering ultra-low latency, high-bandwidth connectivity and secure campus-scale deployments that support command-and-control, ISR and autonomous systems.

• Multi-domain operations are driving demand for 5G platforms across land, naval and airborne domains, enabling rapid data exchange between drones, ships and ground vehicles to boost situational awareness and real-time decision-making.

• Edge computing and network slicing are essential enablers for defence use-cases dedicated slices ensure performance and security isolation, while edge nodes reduce latency and increase resilience in contested environments.

• Cybersecurity and resilience form a critical barrier integrating 5G expands the attack surface, making strategies like zero-trust architecture, hardened supply-chains and secure authentication foundational for trusted deployment.

• Regional focus reveals North America as the current market leader owing to advanced telecom-defence collaboration and government funding, with Asia-Pacific emerging rapidly as militaries in the region modernise networks and establish autonomous systems.

• Cost-benefit logic is increasingly aligned with mission-effectiveness investments in 5G infrastructure are justified not just by connectivity enhancement but by measurable gains in operational tempo, logistics efficiency and multi-platform integration.

• Winning strategic positioning goes to vendors who deliver modular, upgradeable 5G-defence solutions, integrate with legacy tactical networks, and offer managed services, lifecycle support and certification for secure sovereign deployments.

In this report, 5G In Defense Market has been segmented by Solution, Platform, End User, Network Type, Operational Frequency, Installation, and Geography.

5G In Defense Market, Segmentation by Solution

Solution-based segmentation highlights key technologies enabling 5G adoption in defense, emphasizing network efficiency, communication reliability, and advanced computing capabilities. Sub-segments include communication networks, chipsets, and core network solutions, supporting mission-critical operations and tactical decision-making.

Communication Network

• Small Cell

  Small cell networks provide localized coverage with high-speed connectivity and low latency for tactical field operations.

• Macro Cell

  Macro cells offer wide-area coverage and robust connectivity for coordinated operations across large geographic areas.

Chipsets

• Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) Chipset

  ASIC chipsets enable optimized processing and enhanced signal management for defense-specific 5G applications.

• Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit (RFIC) Chipset

  RFIC chipsets ensure high-frequency performance, supporting millimeter-wave communication and low-latency transmissions.

• Millimetre Wave (MMWave) Chipset

  MMWave chipsets provide ultra-high bandwidth and short-range high-speed communication for secure tactical networks.

Core Network

• Software-Defined Networking (SDN)

  SDN enables network programmability and dynamic resource allocation across defense communication platforms.

• Fog Computing (FC)

  Fog computing brings data processing closer to the edge, enhancing latency-sensitive operations in military environments.

• Mobile Edge Computing (MEC)

  MEC ensures real-time computation and low-latency decision-making for battlefield and command center operations.

• Network Functions Virtualization (NFV)

  NFV supports virtualized network services and flexible deployment of communication infrastructure in defense networks.

5G In Defense Market, Segmentation by Platform

Platform segmentation indicates deployment across land, naval, and airborne defense systems, with adoption guided by mission requirements, mobility constraints, and tactical coverage.

Land

• Armored Vehicles

  Armored vehicles integrate 5G to support secure communication and networked operations on the battlefield.

• Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV)

  UGVs leverage 5G for remote control, data transmission, and autonomous navigation.

• Command Centers

  Command centers utilize 5G for real-time monitoring and strategic decision-making across multiple units.

• Dismounted Soldier Systems

  Soldier systems integrate 5G for wearable communication and enhanced situational awareness in field operations.

Naval

• Aircraft Carriers

  Aircraft carriers deploy 5G for fleet coordination and secure communications across naval operations.

• Amphibious Ships

  Amphibious ships leverage 5G for command support and mission planning during multi-domain operations.

• Destroyers

  Destroyers utilize 5G for sensor integration and real-time threat response.

• Frigates

  Frigates benefit from low-latency communication and coordinated naval defense capabilities.

• Submarines

  Submarines integrate 5G for secure communication and stealth network operations.

• Unmanned Maritime Vehicles

  Unmanned maritime vehicles use 5G for autonomous navigation and real-time data exchange.

Airborne

• Military Aircraft

  Military aircraft integrate 5G for high-speed data transfer and tactical communication between air and ground units.

• Military Helicopters

  Helicopters utilize 5G for mission coordination, sensor fusion, and low-latency communication.

• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

  UAVs leverage 5G for remote control, autonomous operations, and real-time surveillance.

5G In Defense Market, Segmentation by End User

End-user segmentation distinguishes deployment priorities for military forces and homeland security agencies, focusing on mission-critical communication, network security, and operational readiness.

Military

Military adoption dominates with over 70%, leveraging 5G for tactical operations, real-time situational awareness, and interoperable communication networks.

Homeland Security

Homeland security represents approximately 30%, focusing on surveillance, emergency response, and critical infrastructure monitoring applications.

5G In Defense Market, Segmentation by Network Type

Network type segmentation reflects capabilities for different operational scenarios, emphasizing high bandwidth, low-latency performance, and massive device connectivity.

Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB)

eMBB accounts for nearly 40%, providing high-speed data transmission for video, intelligence, and operational planning applications.

Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications (URLLC)

URLLC adoption represents approximately 35%, supporting mission-critical systems requiring real-time control and instantaneous command execution.

Massive Machine Type Communications (mMTC)

mMTC covers about 25%, enabling connectivity for a large number of sensors, IoT devices, and autonomous systems in defense networks.

5G In Defense Market, Segmentation by Operational Frequency

Operational frequency segmentation reflects network performance in low, medium, and high bands, influencing coverage area, data throughput, and signal penetration.

Low

Low-frequency networks offer wide coverage and better penetration in challenging terrains, supporting command and control across large areas.

Medium

Medium-frequency deployment balances coverage and data rates, suitable for combined land, naval, and airborne operations.

High

High-frequency bands provide ultra-high bandwidth and low latency, essential for eMBB, URLLC, and high-speed airborne and unmanned operations.

5G In Defense Market, Segmentation by Installation

Installation segmentation differentiates new deployments from upgrades, highlighting network modernization and technology refresh cycles for defense infrastructure.

New Installation

New installations account for over 60%, enabling deployment of next-generation 5G infrastructure for advanced defense communication and situational awareness.

Upgrade

Upgrade installations represent approximately 40%, focusing on retrofitting existing networks with 5G capabilities to enhance resilience and performance.

5G In Defense Market, Segmentation by Geography

Geographic segmentation reflects regional adoption based on defense expenditure, technological capability, and 5G infrastructure maturity.

North America

North America leads adoption with penetration exceeding 50%, driven by advanced defense infrastructure, high defense expenditure, and early 5G integration in military networks.

Europe

Europe accounts for nearly 30% of demand, supported by NATO forces, defense modernization programs, and 5G deployment for land, naval, and airborne platforms.

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is witnessing rapid growth with adoption approaching 35%, fueled by increasing defense budgets, indigenous 5G defense solutions, and regional security investments.

Middle East & Africa

Middle East & Africa show steady uptake near 20%, driven by military modernization initiatives and adoption of 5G-enabled defense communication networks.

Latin America

Latin America represents emerging adoption at approximately 18%, supported by early defense network upgrades and increasing investment in advanced communication systems.

5G In Defense Market is witnessing rapid transformation as defense organizations adopt advanced connectivity for mission-critical operations. Key players are focusing on strategies such as collaboration and partnerships to enhance secure communication and data sharing across complex networks. Rising integration of high-speed networks strengthens tactical awareness, enabling faster innovation and operational growth in modern warfare environments.

Market Structure and Concentration

The competitive field shows moderate to high concentration, with leading defense contractors and technology firms investing heavily in 5G infrastructure. Over 60% of deployments are driven by top-tier integrators leveraging their expertise in secure networks and systems. Mergers and partnerships continue shaping market consolidation, while specialized providers focus on niche tactical and surveillance applications.

Brand and Channel Strategies

Key companies are adopting diversified brand positioning, emphasizing secure data flow, resilience, and advanced encryption. Strategic alliances with telecommunication leaders expand defense-grade solutions and strengthen procurement channels. Marketing and direct engagement with defense agencies remain critical, while collaborative partnerships with network providers accelerate adoption and improve operational readiness.

Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements

Breakthroughs in technological advancements like ultra-reliable low-latency communication and edge computing are redefining defense communication. Companies are investing in innovation to develop enhanced situational awareness systems, drone command networks, and encrypted mobile platforms. Integration with artificial intelligence and autonomous systems is accelerating growth, enabling predictive capabilities and improved decision-making in the field.

Regional Momentum and Expansion

North America leads adoption with nearly 45% market share, driven by significant defense budgets and advanced network infrastructure. Asia-Pacific shows strong expansion as nations modernize command systems and boost connectivity for border surveillance and unmanned vehicles. European defense agencies emphasize secure interoperability, fostering partnerships and supporting innovative network strategies for tactical operations.

Future Outlook

Continuous innovation and deeper cross-industry collaboration will drive stronger network resilience and mission-critical communication solutions. Enhanced integration of 5G with defense cloud platforms and cyber-secure frameworks will fuel strategic growth. Expanding use cases, from remote combat support to AI-driven intelligence, signal long-term expansion and robust competitive positioning in the coming years.

Key players in 5G In Defense Market include:

• Lockheed Martin Corporation
• Raytheon Technologies Corporation
• Northrop Grumman Corporation
• BAE Systems plc
• General Dynamics Corporation
• Thales Group
• Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
• Ericsson AB
• Nokia Corporation
• Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Market Share Analysis
• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis