The global electronic warfare market is anticipated to witness growth over the forecast period. Development across the electromagnetic spectrum is expected to be a key factor driving the market growth. Furthermore, widespread use of electronic and associated equipment along with weapon systems has led to the development of electronic warfare systems, as they are needed to detect and counter these weapons. Technological proliferation, advancements in the field of electronics, and increasing adoption of electro-optic, infrared and visual techniques such as laser are expected to favorably impact electronic warfare market growth over the next few years. Electronic warfare has become an integral part of strategic landscape for all warfighters. Cold-wars, political conflicts, and territorial disputes are expected positively impact the electronic warfare market over the forecast period. Increasing the popularity of small electronic systems that can be integrated within platforms such as patrol vessels and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is also expected to drive market growth.
The market is expected to witness substantial growth owing to naval vessels and stealth aircraft. The aforementioned platforms are difficult to track or detect, thereby making the adoption of electronic warfare systems crucial. Defense budget cut in the U.S. and Europe is expected to pose a challenge to electronic warfare market growth over the forecast period. Further, economic concerns in developing regions may also hinder the market. The need to achieve faster and efficient systems with an ability to reduce time lag provides avenues for market growth. Major types of electronic warfare include Electronic Counter Measures (ECM), Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM), and Electronic Support Measures (ESM).
The electronic warfare market is highly fragmented with several industry players focusing on mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures as a part of their growth strategy. For instance, the Javelin Joint Venture is a partnership between Raytheon and Lockheed Martin. Key industry participants include BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Raytheon Co., L-3 Communications Holdings Inc., Teledyne Defense Ltd., IAI Elta, Rockwell Collins, and Alliant Techsystems, Inc.