Airborne Optronics Market Expected to Reach $4.8 Billion by 2032

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, “Airborne Optronics Market," The market size of airborne optronics industry was valued at $1.5 billion in 2022, and is estimated to garner $4.8 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 12.4% from 2023 to 2032.

Airborne optronics market growth is influenced by the increase in use of unmanned systems, especially drones or UAVs. Lightweight, high-performance optronics payloads are in high demand as these unmanned platforms become more widely used in a variety of applications. Advanced sensors, cameras, and targeting systems make up these payloads, which give UAVs the ability to carry out crucial tasks such as situational awareness, target acquisition, surveillance, and reconnaissance.

The surge in focus on multispectral and hyperspectral imaging capabilities is another important trend. These sophisticated sensors offer improved target detection, identification, and tracking capabilities by capturing data over a wide range of spectral bands, from visible light to infrared and beyond. Applications of this technology, including target recognition, environmental monitoring, and camouflage detection, have enormous potential for both military and commercial use.

Moreover, optronics systems are increasingly incorporating machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. These modern computational methods have the potential to completely transform data processing and analysis, allowing for improved target tracking, object identification, and decision-making. Artificial Intelligence (AI) facilitated image analysis and data fusion from various sensors enhanced situational awareness and facilitated more informed decision-making.

Precise targeting capabilities are essential for effective engagement of targets, minimizing collateral damage and ensuring mission success. Airborne optronics targeting systems, such as laser rangefinders, target designators, and advanced optics, play a crucial role in providing accurate target acquisition and tracking. The demand for these systems is driven by the procurement of new aircraft platforms, as well as the upgrading of existing fleets with enhanced targeting capabilities. 

Europe represents one of the major regions for airborne optronics market due to the presence of major aerospace and defense companies, as well as the region's emphasis on military modernization and technological advancement. Countries such as the UK, France, Germany, and Italy have been actively investing in the procurement of new aircraft and the upgrading of existing platforms with advanced optronics systems. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing situational awareness, intelligence gathering, and precision targeting capabilities to meet the evolving security challenges.

Moreover, airborne optronics manufacturers have expanded their presence in Europe considering increased demand for airborne based services. For instance, in December 2023 Hensoldt AG inaugurated an Airborne Service Center (ASC) for its sensor platforms in Germany. With EASA PART-145 certification under European aviation regulations, the ASC in Oberkochen is authorized to repair intricate gimbal-mounted electro-optical monitoring systems such as the ARGOS II HD directly in Germany. This setup at the Hensoldt AG Optronics site in Oberkochen offers customers significant time savings and direct local support. Such developments increases the airborne optronics market share of the providers.

In addition, airborne optronics industry players develop decisive sensors for UAVs. For instance, in August 2023, Hensoldt AG, sensor solutions provider announced development of a collision warning system for civil and military drones. With a demonstrator study for a "detect-and-avoid radar," commissioned by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), Hensoldt AG aims to facilitate the safe integration of drones into controlled airspace. Therefore, such instances further increase the airborne optronics market size in forecast period.

In addition, the development of multispectral and hyperspectral sensors presents a significant opportunity for businesses operating in the airborne optronics market. These advanced sensors capture data across multiple spectral bands, ranging from visible light to infrared and beyond, providing a wealth of information that is leveraged for various applications. According to the Airborne Optronics Market Forecast, the adoption of advanced technologies such as hyperspectral imaging is expected to drive market expansion and offer new capabilities for military and commercial applications. By leveraging the findings of the Airborne Optronics Market Analysis, companies can develop strategic plans to expand their product offerings and penetrate new market segments.

KEY FINDINGS OF THE STUDY

•        By system, the special mission system segment is anticipated to exhibit significant growth in the near future.

•        By technology, the multispectral segment is anticipated to dominate the market in the coming future.

•        By application, the military segment is anticipated to lead the market.

•        By aircraft type, the fixed wing segment is anticipated to exhibit fastest growth from 2023–2032.

•        By end use, the OEM segment is anticipated to lead the market.

•        By region, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

The key players operating in the global airborne optronics market include with Northrop Grumman Corporation, Thales SA, Safran SA¸ Teledyne FLIR LLC, Elbit Systems Ltd., Leonardo S.p.A., Lockheed Martin Corporation., Hensoldt AG, Collins Aerospace, and L3Harris Technologies, Inc. These players are adopting strategies such as contracts, agreements, and acquisitions to improve their market positioning.