Global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

Recent Developments:

• In January 2021, Thales announced that it had been awarded its third delivery order from the US Army to provide the AN/PRC-148D Improved Multiband Inter/Intra Team Radio (IMBITR) under the Army Leader Radio program. The latest award brings the total IMBITR radio orders to more than 6,000.

In this report, the Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market has been segmented by Communication Type, Platform, Application, and Geography.

Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market, Segmentation by Communication Type

The Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market has been segmented by Communication Type into Satellite and Radio.

Satellite

Satellite-based systems account for approximately 41% of the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. These systems enable beyond-line-of-sight communication and provide critical real-time connectivity in remote and hostile environments. Growing demand for high-bandwidth data transmission, secure voice channels, and video streaming capabilities is driving adoption. Additionally, advancements in portable satellite terminals and increasing investments in defense satellite networks are further propelling market growth in this segment.

Radio

Radio systems dominate the market with a share of approximately 59% in the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. These systems offer reliable short-range and medium-range communication solutions for tactical units in combat zones. The demand for software-defined radios (SDRs), multi-band capabilities, and encrypted communication is driving technological advancements. Moreover, the integration of mesh networking and interoperable communication platforms further strengthens the utility of radio systems in modern military operations.

Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market, Segmentation by Platform

The Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market has been segmented by Platform into Land-Based, Air-Based, and Sea-Based.

Land-Based

The land-based segment dominates the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market with approximately 64% market share. These systems provide critical voice, data, and video communication capabilities to infantry units, armored vehicle crews, and ground forces. Growing investments in network-centric warfare and the modernization of land forces communication infrastructure are driving demand. Additionally, advancements in ruggedized devices and real-time situational awareness tools are further enhancing the utility of land-based systems.

Air-Based

The air-based segment holds about 22% of the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. These systems enable seamless communication between airborne platforms and ground forces, enhancing mission coordination and battlefield awareness. The increasing adoption of portable airborne communication equipment and integration of software-defined radios (SDRs) within rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft is driving market growth. Moreover, the demand for secure data links and real-time intelligence sharing further supports the expansion of this segment.

Sea-Based

The sea-based segment contributes approximately 14% to the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. These systems support communication for naval forces operating on surface vessels and submarines. The growing need for interoperable communication between maritime forces and joint task forces is driving adoption. Additionally, increasing investments in secure naval communication networks and advanced signal processing technologies are fueling growth in the sea-based segment.

Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market, Segmentation by Application

The Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market has been segmented by Software Defined Radios, SATCOM, Smartphones, and Others.

Software Defined Radios

Software Defined Radios account for approximately 48% of the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. These advanced multiband, multimode communication systems enable seamless voice, data, and video transmission across multiple frequency bands. Increasing demand for interoperability across joint forces and coalition operations is driving adoption. Additionally, advancements in encryption technologies and software-based waveform upgrades are further fueling growth in this segment.

SATCOM

SATCOM systems contribute about 27% to the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. They provide essential beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) communication capabilities in remote and hostile environments. Growing demand for high-bandwidth data links, real-time situational awareness, and global command and control (C2) connectivity is boosting the use of portable SATCOM solutions. Moreover, advancements in lightweight satellite terminals and increasing investments in military satellite networks are propelling market growth.

Smartphones

Smartphones hold approximately 15% share in the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. Ruggedized military smartphones are increasingly used to support secure tactical communication, mission planning, and real-time data sharing. Their ease of use, compatibility with modern battlefield apps, and integration with secure communication networks are key drivers of demand. Additionally, advancements in device ruggedization and cybersecurity capabilities further enhance the operational value of military smartphones.

Others

The Others segment, including portable repeaters, intercom systems, and wearable communication devices, contributes around 10% to the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. Growing emphasis on soldier connectivity, real-time situational intelligence, and network-centric operations is driving demand for these complementary systems. Ongoing advancements in miniaturization, low-power consumption, and integrated sensor communication are further expanding opportunities in this segment.

Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market Share (%), by Geographical Region

North America

North America leads the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market with an estimated market share of around 38%. The region benefits from substantial investments in defense modernization programs and the adoption of advanced tactical communication systems. The presence of leading defense contractors and strong demand from the U.S. armed forces drive continuous innovation. Increasing deployment of software-defined radios (SDRs) and portable SATCOM solutions further supports market expansion across North America.

Europe

Europe holds approximately 25% of the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. The region is witnessing rising demand due to heightened geopolitical tensions and growing emphasis on joint defense initiatives under NATO frameworks. Countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are actively modernizing their infantry communication capabilities. Additionally, advancements in interoperable systems and increasing adoption of encrypted mobile communication devices are driving growth across Europe.

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific contributes approximately 20% to the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. Rapid military modernization in countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea is a key driver. The region’s focus on enhancing infantry combat communication and border security operations is boosting demand for portable military communication solutions. Additionally, investments in indigenous defense manufacturing and growing adoption of next-generation soldier systems are further propelling market growth.

Middle East and Africa

The Middle East and Africa region holds about 10% of the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. Ongoing regional conflicts and efforts to improve battlefield communication capabilities are driving demand. Countries are investing in advanced radio systems, secure SATCOM solutions, and rugged smartphones to enhance force interoperability and operational readiness. Additionally, international defense collaborations and modernization programs are contributing to market expansion in this region.

Latin America

Latin America accounts for approximately 7% of the global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. The region is focusing on strengthening border security and counter-insurgency operations, driving demand for portable tactical communication systems. Countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico are investing in modern infantry communication equipment and expanding inter-agency interoperability. Additionally, the adoption of cost-effective, ruggedized communication devices supports steady market growth across Latin America.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities.

Drivers:

• Counter-insurgency
• Counter-terrorism Operations
• Tactical Mobility Requirements

• Network-centric Warfare Concepts -The proliferation of advanced sensor technologies, unmanned systems, and precision-guided munitions has underscored the importance of network-centric communication systems in facilitating joint and combined arms operations. Military forces rely on seamless communication and information sharing capabilities to coordinate air, land, sea, and cyber assets in integrated and synchronized operations, enabling them to achieve decisive effects against adversary forces while minimizing collateral damage and friendly casualties. Man-portable communication systems serve as enablers for network-centric warfare by providing soldiers with the connectivity and interoperability required to participate in joint and coalition operations effectively.

  The growing emphasis on expeditionary and expeditionary warfare concepts has heightened the demand for lightweight, portable, and rapidly deployable communication systems that can support agile and mobile military operations in diverse theaters of operation. Man-portable communication systems offer soldiers the flexibility and adaptability to establish secure communication networks in austere and contested environments, enabling them to maintain connectivity and situational awareness while operating in remote or hostile areas. These systems enable expeditionary forces to project power, conduct rapid response missions, and achieve operational objectives with minimal logistical footprint and support infrastructure.

  Technological advancements in areas such as software-defined radios (SDRs), cognitive radio networks, and ad hoc networking protocols are driving innovation in man-portable communication systems, enabling greater flexibility, scalability, and resilience in network-centric operations. Military forces are investing in next-generation communication technologies that leverage these advancements to enhance spectrum efficiency, mitigate electromagnetic interference, and ensure secure and reliable communication in dynamic and contested electromagnetic environments. Man-portable communication systems that can adapt to evolving threats, exploit emerging technologies, and integrate seamlessly with existing and future network architectures are well-positioned to meet the evolving requirements of network-centric warfare in the 21st century.

  Network-centric warfare concepts are serving as a significant driver for the Global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market, shaping the demand for advanced communication solutions that support integrated, agile, and information-enabled military operations. As military forces worldwide continue to embrace NCW principles to address emerging threats and challenges, the market for man-portable communication systems is expected to witness sustained growth, driven by the imperative for enhanced battlefield awareness, interoperability, and operational agility in an increasingly networked and interconnected battlespace.

Restraints:

• Budgetary Constraints
• Technological Complexity
• Cybersecurity Risks

• Interoperability Challenges - Interoperability challenges present significant restraints within the Global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market, impacting its overall growth and effectiveness. These challenges stem from the inherent complexities associated with integrating diverse communication technologies, standards, and protocols across different military branches, coalition forces, and allied nations. As military operations increasingly involve joint and multinational collaboration, ensuring seamless interoperability between communication systems becomes imperative for enhancing command and control capabilities, information sharing, and operational effectiveness on the battlefield.

  One of the primary interoperability challenges arises from the proliferation of legacy communication systems and equipment within military organizations, which often operate on disparate frequencies, waveforms, and encryption standards. This fragmentation hampers interoperability between different units, hindering the exchange of critical information and compromising tactical coordination during joint operations. Additionally, the lack of standardized interfaces and protocols further complicates interoperability efforts, requiring complex and costly integration solutions to bridge communication gaps between incompatible systems.

  Interoperability challenges are exacerbated by the rapid pace of technological advancements and the introduction of new communication technologies, such as software-defined radios (SDRs), cognitive radio systems, and mesh networking solutions. While these technologies offer enhanced capabilities and flexibility, they also introduce compatibility issues with legacy systems and require comprehensive interoperability testing and validation to ensure seamless integration into existing communication infrastructures. Furthermore, the diverse operational requirements and mission profiles across different military branches and coalition partners pose additional interoperability challenges, as communication systems must be tailored to meet specific needs while maintaining compatibility with overarching interoperability standards.

  This extend beyond technical considerations to encompass organizational, procedural, and cultural factors that influence communication interoperability within military organizations. Differences in doctrine, tactics, and command structures among allied nations can impede effective communication and coordination, particularly during multinational operations where disparate communication systems must seamlessly interoperate to achieve mission objectives. Additionally, challenges related to information security, data sharing policies, and classification protocols further complicate interoperability efforts, requiring robust encryption, authentication, and access control mechanisms to safeguard sensitive information while facilitating interoperable communication.

  Addressing interoperability challenges within the Global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market requires a concerted effort from industry stakeholders, defense agencies, and international partners to standardize communication protocols, establish interoperability testing and certification processes, and promote collaboration and information sharing initiatives. By overcoming these challenges, military forces can enhance their ability to effectively communicate, coordinate, and collaborate across diverse operational environments, thereby improving mission effectiveness and ensuring the success of joint and multinational operations.

Opportunities:

• Rising Demand for Secure and Interoperable Communication
• Focus on Lightweight and Wearable Solutions
• Growing Demand for Unmanned Systems Integration

• Expansion of Special Operations Forces (SOF) Market - The expansion of the Special Operations Forces (SOF) market presents a significant opportunity for the Global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market, with implications for market share dynamics. Special Operations Forces, comprising elite units specialized in unconventional warfare, counterterrorism, and clandestine operations, are increasingly playing a pivotal role in modern military strategies worldwide. As governments prioritize enhancing the capabilities of these elite forces to address asymmetric threats and unconventional challenges, there is a growing demand for advanced man-portable communication systems tailored to the unique operational requirements of SOF units.

  The expanding role of SOF units in joint and multinational operations underscores the importance of interoperable communication systems that can seamlessly integrate with existing military networks and platforms across different branches and allied forces. Man-portable communication systems that offer interoperability with a wide range of radios, sensors, and command systems enable SOF operators to collaborate effectively with partner forces, share critical information, and coordinate joint missions in diverse operational theaters.

  The growing emphasis on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities within Special Operations Forces highlights the need for man-portable communication systems capable of supporting real-time data exchange, sensor fusion, and situational awareness applications. Advanced communication technologies, such as software-defined radios (SDRs), cognitive radio systems, and tactical data links, enable SOF units to access and disseminate actionable intelligence, target coordinates, and mission updates on the move, enhancing their operational effectiveness and decision-making capabilities in dynamic and high-threat environments.

  The expansion of the Special Operations Forces market presents opportunities for collaboration and partnership between man-portable communication system manufacturers and defense prime contractors specializing in SOF equipment and solutions. By leveraging synergies and complementary capabilities, industry stakeholders can develop integrated communication solutions tailored to the evolving needs of SOF operators, enhancing their mission effectiveness, survivability, and lethality on the modern battlefield.

Key players in Global Man-portable Military Communication Systems Market include:

• L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
• General Dynamics Corporation
• Raytheon Technologies Corporation
• Elbit Systems Ltd.
• Thales Group

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

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