Military Airborne Radar Market
By Type;
Surveillance Early Warning Radar, Airborne Warning & Control System (AWACS), Missile Warning Radars, Targeting & Reconnaissance Radars, Fire Control Radars (FCR), Navigational Radars, Weather Radars and OthersBy Component;
Antenna, Transmitter, Receiver and Power AmplifierBy Range;
Short Range, Medium Range and Long RangeBy Application;
Manned Aircraft, Fixed Wing, Rotary Wing, Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), MALE, HALE and TacticalBy Aircraft Type;
Fighter Aircraft, Attack Aircraft, Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Transport Aircraft and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Military Airborne Radar Market Overview
Military Airborne Radar Market (USD Million)
Military Airborne Radar Market was valued at USD 2,999.45 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 4,486.30 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.9%.
Military Airborne Radar Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 5.9 %
Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
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Base Year | 2024 |
CAGR (%) | 5.9 % |
Market Size (2024) | USD 2,999.45 Million |
Market Size (2031) | USD 4,486.30 Million |
Market Concentration | Medium |
Report Pages | 314 |
Major Players
- RAYTHEON COMPANY
- SAAB AB
- ISRAEL AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES
- LEONARDO S.P.A
- NORTHROP GRUMMAN
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Military Airborne Radar Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Military Airborne Radar Market is becoming increasingly critical for enhancing defense capabilities and operational readiness. Adoption of airborne radar systems has increased by over 40%, as nations focus on improving situational awareness, threat detection, and precision targeting. These systems play a vital role in surveillance, reconnaissance, and navigation, ensuring effective mission execution in complex environments.
Key Drivers Accelerating Growth
The demand for advanced detection technologies and multi-mode functionalities significantly drives market expansion. Nearly 35% of defense forces have already integrated modernized radar solutions into their fleets to counter evolving aerial threats. Rising defense budgets and the focus on network-centric warfare are further strengthening radar adoption across military aircraft.
Advancements Strengthening Market Adoption
Continuous progress in solid-state electronics, AESA radars, and AI-enabled systems has transformed airborne radar performance. Approximately 50% of new radar installations feature electronically scanned array technology, offering greater detection accuracy and multi-target tracking. Integration with unmanned aerial platforms and next-generation fighter jets enhances both range and operational flexibility.
Strategic Collaborations and Innovation
Defense contractors are increasingly entering partnerships and collaborations to expand their radar portfolios. Nearly 30% of recent defense contracts have emphasized joint innovation initiatives for enhancing airborne radar effectiveness. This collaborative approach ensures rapid technological transfer, reduced development timelines, and improved system adaptability for modern combat operations.
Military Airborne Radar Market Recent Developments
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January 2021: Hensoldt signed a collaboration agreement with BIRD Aerosystems (Israel) to develop additional advanced radar control and display (RCD) capabilities in the HENSOLDT PrecISR advanced multi-mode radar family.
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January 2021: Doosan Bobcat (South Korea) announced a strategic equity investment in Einstein Systems (US). Doosan Bobcat manufactures construction, agriculture, landscaping, and ground maintenance equipment.
Segment Analysis
The global military airborne radar market is segmented based on radar type, with key categories such as detection & search, targeting, navigation, and others. Detection & search radars play a critical role in identifying potential threats and monitoring large areas. Targeting radars are essential for precise missile guidance and ensuring accurate hits, while navigation radars are crucial for aircraft positioning and situational awareness, ensuring safe and efficient flight operations. These radar types are integral to the effectiveness of modern military aircraft, driving technological innovations in the sector.
In terms of components, the market is divided into antenna, transmitter, receiver, and power amplifier. Antennas are vital for signal transmission and reception, while transmitters and receivers enable the generation and interpretation of radar signals. Power amplifiers are crucial for boosting signal strength, ensuring radar systems can operate over long ranges and under challenging conditions. The performance and reliability of these components directly impact the functionality and effectiveness of military airborne radar systems, making them a critical focus for manufacturers.
Geographically, the military airborne radar market spans regions such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. North America and Europe lead in technological advancements and defense spending, making them key markets for high-end radar systems. The Asia Pacific region is witnessing rapid military modernization and increasing defense budgets, thereby driving demand for advanced radar systems. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa focus on surveillance and security applications, and Latin America is seeing gradual growth in defense investments, contributing to the global market dynamics.
Global Military Airborne Radar Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Military Airborne Radar Market has been segmented by Radar Type, Component, Application, Frequency Band and Geography.
Global Military Airborne Radar Market, Segmentation by Radar Type
The Global Military Airborne Radar Market has been segmented by Radar Type into Detection & Search, Targeting, Navigation and Others.
This segmentation recognizes that airborne radars serve various purposes on military aircraft, each requiring distinct technological capabilities.One key segment focuses on Detection & Search radars. These form the backbone of aerial defense by providing a long-range view of the surrounding airspace. They excel at spotting enemy aircraft, missiles, and drones, allowing for timely warnings and coordinated responses.
Another segment encompasses Targeting radars. Once threats are detected, targeting radars come into play. These high-precision systems track objects with exceptional detail, providing accurate targeting data for weapon systems like missiles and guns. Their ability to lock onto fast-moving targets is crucial for successful air-to-air combat and ground attack missions.
Finally, the "Others" segment captures a diverse range of specialized airborne radars. This might include weather radars that provide crucial data on weather patterns for mission planning and avoiding hazardous conditions. Additionally, terrain-mapping radars can generate detailed topographical maps in real-time, aiding in navigation and target identification, particularly in unfamiliar territories. By segmenting the market by Radar Type, we gain a deeper understanding of the various functionalities that airborne radars provide to modern militaries.
Global Military Airborne Radar Market, Segmentation by Component
The Global Military Airborne Radar Market has been segmented by Component into Antenna, Transmitter, Receiver, and Power Amplifier.
The Global Military Airborne Radar Market has been segmented by component into antenna, transmitter, receiver, and power amplifier. The antenna segment plays a crucial role in the radar system as it is responsible for emitting and receiving electromagnetic waves. It is designed to detect targets at various ranges and angles, providing essential data to the radar system for effective operation. Antennas are critical in determining the radar's overall performance and accuracy, which is why they are an integral part of airborne radar systems.
The transmitter segment is responsible for generating and transmitting the radio frequency signals necessary for radar operations. These signals travel through the air and bounce off objects, returning to the receiver to be analyzed. The power of the transmitter affects the range and resolution of the radar system. Efficient transmitters ensure the radar can detect targets from long distances and with high precision, making them vital for military operations.
The receiver and power amplifier segments also play significant roles in the performance of military airborne radar systems. The receiver is tasked with capturing the reflected signals from targets and converting them into usable data. It processes the signals to identify and track targets. The power amplifier strengthens the received signals, ensuring that the radar system can detect and track even faint or distant targets. Together, these components contribute to the radar's ability to provide real-time information for military missions.
Global Military Airborne Radar Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Military Airborne Radar Market has been segmented by Application into Surviellance, Weapon Guidance and Others.
This segmentation reflects the diverse tasks performed by airborne radars in ensuring a nation's air defense and offensive capabilities.Surveillance applications form a cornerstone of the market. Radars play a critical role in constantly monitoring vast swathes of airspace, detecting and tracking potential threats like enemy aircraft, drones, and missiles. This early warning allows military forces to react swiftly, take necessary countermeasures, and protect their airspace. Surveillance radars come in various configurations, with some offering long-range detection for strategic applications, while others provide high-resolution views for tactical battlefield awareness.
The "Others" segment encompasses a range of specialized applications for airborne radars. This might include electronic warfare (EW) applications where radars are used to detect and jam enemy radar systems, disrupting their ability to track and target friendly forces. Additionally, terrain-following/avoidance radars provide real-time information on ground obstacles, allowing for safe low-altitude flight and enhancing mission flexibility. Segmentation by Application highlights the versatility of airborne radars and their crucial role in various aspects of modern aerial warfare.
Global Military Airborne Radar Market, Segmentation by Frequency Band
The Global Military Airborne Radar Market has been segmented by Frequency Band into X & KU, S & L and OTHERS.
The X & Ku band segment represents high-frequency radars known for their exceptional range and resolution. X-band radars strike a balance between these two aspects, making them well-suited for diverse applications like air-to-air combat and maritime patrol. They excel at detecting and tracking fast-moving targets with high accuracy. Ku-band radars, with their even shorter wavelengths, offer even finer resolution, ideal for tasks requiring detailed imaging, such as target identification and missile guidance. However, their higher frequency makes them more susceptible to signal attenuation in adverse weather conditions.
S & L band, on the other hand, encompass lower-frequency radars that prioritize long-range detection over high resolution. S-band radars are particularly adept at penetrating through rain and fog, making them valuable for all-weather operations. They excel at long-range airspace surveillance and tracking targets at significant distances. L-band radars operate at even lower frequencies, offering superior detection capabilities over extended ranges. However, their lower resolution limits their effectiveness in tasks requiring fine detail.
Finally, the "Others" segment captures a range of specialized frequency bands used for specific purposes. This might include C-band radars that offer a balance between range and resolution, finding applications in early warning systems and ground target tracking. Additionally, VHF/UHF bands are sometimes used for short-range radars employed in specific applications like weather detection or terrain mapping. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different frequency bands is crucial for militaries to select the most suitable radars for their diverse needs and operational environments.
Global Military Airborne Radar Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Military Airborne Radar Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Military Airborne Radar Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America stands out as a dominant player in the market. This can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the presence of leading military powers like the United States translates into high defense spending and a constant demand for advanced airborne radar technologies. Secondly, well-established defense industries within the region foster innovation and development of next-generation radar systems. Finally, a strong focus on maintaining air superiority and global military presence necessitates continued investment in sophisticated airborne radar capabilities.
Europe represents another established market for military airborne radars. Here, the market is driven by factors like collaborative defense programs between European nations and a focus on maintaining technological parity with other major powers. Additionally, the presence of prominent aerospace and defense companies within the region contributes to a robust market for airborne radar technology.
The Asia Pacific region presents a dynamic and rapidly growing market for military airborne radars. This growth is fueled by factors like rising defense budgets, territorial disputes, and modernization programs undertaken by regional militaries. China, India, and Japan are emerging as key players in this market, driving demand for advanced radar systems to bolster their air defense capabilities.The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region presents a market with specific characteristics. Here, the demand for military airborne radars is driven by factors like regional instability, border security concerns, and the presence of significant oil reserves that necessitate protection. However, economic disparities and political uncertainties within the region can create challenges for consistent market growth.
Latin America represents a market with emerging potential for military airborne radars. While the current market size might be smaller compared to other regions, increasing defense budgets and a growing focus on national security are expected to drive future market expansion. Collaboration with developed nations for technology transfer and knowledge sharing can further propel the growth of the military airborne radar market in Latin America.
By segmenting the market by Geography, this report provides a comprehensive understanding of the global landscape for military airborne radars. It highlights the varying factors influencing market growth in different regions and allows for targeted strategies for manufacturers and suppliers to cater to the specific needs of each region.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Military Airborne Radar Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis
Drivers:
- Increasing Defense Budgets
- Need for Enhanced Situational Awareness
- Technological Advancements
- Modernization of Existing Fleet
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Focus on Network-Centric Warfare - The rise of Network-Centric Warfare (NCW) is a significant trend impacting the Global Military Airborne Radar Market. NCW emphasizes real-time information sharing and collaborative decision-making across various military platforms. This has profound implications for airborne radars, driving the market towards greater integration and interconnectivity.
One key aspect of this is the integration of airborne radar data into a shared network. Modern airborne radars are increasingly equipped with advanced data processing capabilities and secure communication links. This allows them to transmit real-time information about detected threats, such as enemy aircraft or missile launches, to a central command center. This shared situational awareness empowers commanders to make informed decisions and coordinate a swift response across different military units.
The focus on NCW is also driving the development of new airborne radar functionalities. For example, radars with electronic warfare (EW) capabilities can be integrated into the network to detect and jam enemy radar systems, further enhancing overall situational awareness and protecting friendly forces. Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are being explored to enable airborne radars to perform real-time threat identification and classification, reducing the workload on human operators and expediting the decision-making process.
In conclusion, Network-Centric Warfare is transforming the Global Military Airborne Radar Market. The emphasis on real-time information sharing, interoperability, and advanced functionalities is shaping the development of next-generation airborne radars, creating a market driven by the need for seamless integration within a networked battlespace.
Restraints:
- Competition from Alternative Technologies
- Supply Chain Disruptions
- Operational Limitations
- Cybersecurity Concerns
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Integration Complexity - The Global Military Airborne Radar Market faces a unique challenge: integration complexity. Unlike standalone systems, airborne radars become intricate parts of a larger ecosystem onboard military aircraft. This ecosystem includes navigation systems, communication technologies, weapon systems, and other electronic warfare suites. Seamless integration of the radar with these various components is crucial for optimal performance and mission success.
Integration complexity stems from several factors. Firstly, airborne radars generate massive amounts of data that need to be efficiently processed, shared, and displayed on the aircraft's integrated cockpit systems. This requires robust data interfaces and protocols to ensure smooth information flow between the radar and other onboard systems. Secondly, ensuring compatibility between different radar systems from potentially diverse vendors and legacy technologies further complicates integration efforts. Finally, the harsh environment of airborne operations, with factors like extreme temperatures, vibrations, and electromagnetic interference, necessitates robust and reliable integration to guarantee uninterrupted radar functionality.
Overcoming these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Open architecture standards can promote compatibility and simplify integration between different systems. Additionally, robust data management solutions are crucial for handling the high volume of data generated by airborne radars. Finally, rigorous testing and validation procedures ensure seamless integration and reliable performance within the complex ecosystem of a modern military aircraft. By addressing integration complexity, manufacturers can deliver next-generation airborne radars that contribute to enhanced situational awareness, improved mission effectiveness, and a decisive advantage for military forces.
Opportunities:
- Increasing Defense Budgets
- Growing Demand for Surveillance and Reconnaissance
- Rising Threat of Asymmetric Warfare
- Modernization Programs
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Focus on Multi-Domain Operations - The growing focus on Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) is significantly impacting the Global Military Airborne Radar Market. MDO emphasizes seamless coordination between air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains for enhanced situational awareness and decisive action. Airborne radars play a vital role in this new era of warfare.
Advanced airborne radars with capabilities like long-range detection, high-resolution imaging, and data fusion are increasingly sought after. These radars can track objects across vast areas, providing a unified view of the battlespace for commanders across different domains. For instance, an airborne radar detecting a potential threat can relay information to ground forces for interception or share targeting data with fighter jets for swift aerial response. This real-time information sharing and coordinated action across domains are crucial for success in MDO scenarios.
Furthermore, the development of airborne radars with Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities is gaining traction in the MDO context. These radars can detect and jam enemy radar systems, disrupting their ability to track friendly forces and hindering their communication networks. This integrated approach to air defense and offensive operations strengthens a nation's military posture in the age of Multi-Domain Operations.
Military Airborne Radar Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Military Airborne Radar Market is highly competitive, with leading defense contractors implementing advanced strategies to maintain dominance. Nearly 67% of the sector is concentrated among established players, while smaller firms strengthen their presence through collaboration, merger activities, and defense partnerships. Continuous focus on innovation, modernization, and efficiency drives consistent growth in surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat radar applications.
Market Structure and Concentration
The market shows a moderately high concentration, with approximately 62% share controlled by top-tier manufacturers emphasizing performance and technological superiority. Consolidation through merger agreements and strategic acquisitions continues to shape competitiveness. Smaller companies focus on specialized radar systems and cost-efficient solutions, driving measurable expansion and reinforcing sustainable growth across military aviation programs and modernization initiatives.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Brand strategies account for nearly 58% of market influence, with defense firms prioritizing reliability, mission readiness, and compliance to strengthen their reputation. Channel expansion occurs through direct government contracts and regional partnerships with aerospace integrators. Strong branding combined with collaborative strategies ensures enduring relationships with defense agencies, supporting consistent growth and expansion across diverse military operations.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Technological advancements contribute to around 71% improvements in radar precision, detection range, and adaptability. Innovations in phased-array systems, AI-driven analytics, and multi-mode radars define competitive advantage. Leading defense firms invest in research collaborations and partnerships, ensuring sustained innovation. This technology-driven focus fuels growth while enhancing long-term competitiveness in advanced airborne defense and intelligence applications.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Regional expansion strategies account for almost 60% of revenue growth, with North America leading adoption due to strong defense budgets and modernization programs. Asia-Pacific demonstrates rapid expansion through rising military aviation investments, while Europe emphasizes innovation and compliance. Cross-border partnerships and localized production hubs reinforce regional integration, ensuring strategic expansion and long-term market growth.
Future Outlook
The future outlook indicates continued transformation, with approximately 65% of companies prioritizing innovation-driven strategies and defense partnerships. Technological advancements will redefine operational capabilities, while regional expansion remains a central driver of growth. Increasing merger initiatives, digital integration, and sustainable defense practices are expected to reshape the competitive landscape, ensuring consistent development and long-term market expansion.
Key players in Military Airborne Radar Market include:
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- Raytheon Technologies Corporation
- Thales Group
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Leonardo S.p.A.
- Saab AB
- Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)
- Elbit Systems Ltd
- L3Harris Technologies
- Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
- BAE Systems plc
- Hensoldt
- General Dynamics Corporation
- FLIR Systems / Teledyne FLIR
- Vega Radio Engineering Corporation
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
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Component
- Market Snapshot, By Range
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Aircraft Type
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Military Airborne Radar Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Increasing Defense Budgets
- Need for Enhanced Situational Awareness
- Technological Advancements
- Modernization of Existing Fleet
- Focus on Network-Centric Warfare
- Restraints
- Competition from Alternative Technologies
- Supply Chain Disruptions
- Operational Limitations
- Cybersecurity Concerns
- Integration Complexity
- Opportunities
- Increasing Defense Budgets
- Growing Demand for Surveillance and Reconnaissance
- Rising Threat of Asymmetric Warfare
- Modernization Programs
- Focus on Multi-Domain Operations
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
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Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Military Airborne Radar Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Surveillance Early Warning Radar
- Airborne Warning & Control System (AWACS)
- Missile Warning Radars
- Targeting & Reconnaissance Radars
- Fire Control Radars (FCR)
- Navigational Radars
- Weather Radars
- Others
- Military Airborne Radar Market, By Component, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Antenna
- Transmitter
- Receiver
- Power Amplifier
- Military Airborne Radar Market, By Range, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Short Range
- Medium Range
- Long Range
- Military Airborne Radar Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Manned Aircraft
- Fixed Wing
- Rotary Wing
- Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS)
- MALE
- HALE
- Tactical
- Manned Aircraft
- Military Airborne Radar Market, By Aircraft Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Fighter Aircraft
- Attack Aircraft
- Maritime Patrol Aircraft
- Transport Aircraft
- Others
- Military Airborne Radar Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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North America
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United States
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Canada
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Europe
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Germany
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United Kingdom
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France
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Italy
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Spain
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Nordic
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Benelux
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Rest of Europe
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Asia Pacific
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Japan
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China
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India
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Australia & New Zealand
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South Korea
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ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
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Rest of Asia Pacific
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Middle East & Africa
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GCC
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Israel
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South Africa
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Rest of Middle East & Africa
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Latin America
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Brazil
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Mexico
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Argentina
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Rest of Latin America
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- Military Airborne Radar Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- Raytheon Technologies Corporation
- Thales Group
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Leonardo S.p.A.
- Saab AB
- Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)
- Elbit Systems Ltd
- L3Harris Technologies
- Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
- BAE Systems plc
- Hensoldt
- General Dynamics Corporation
- FLIR Systems / Teledyne FLIR
- Vega Radio Engineering Corporation
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market