The global software defined radio market size is expected to reach USD 62,088.7 million by 2033, registering a CAGR of 8.8% from 2026 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is undergoing substantial growth primarily owing to its inherent advantages in flexibility and adaptability. The ability to reconfigure radio functionality through software updates rather than hardware modifications makes software defined radio (SDR) highly attractive in dynamic industries, including telecommunications and defense. The surge in demand for advanced wireless communication systems, coupled with the increasing prevalence of 5G technology, contributes significantly to market’s expansion.
The escalating demand for software defined radio across diverse industries underwent a paradigm shift in wireless communication technologies. The software defined radio’s adaptability and versatility have positioned it as a key enabler in meeting the evolving requirements of these sectors. In defense applications, software defined radio plays a pivotal role in ensuring secure, dependable, and interoperable communication. The dynamic nature of modern warfare demands flexible communication systems that can quickly adapt to changing conditions. The software defined radio’s capability to reconfigure and upgrade software functionalities without requiring hardware modifications aligns perfectly with the defense sector’s need for rapid, agile communication solutions. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also provides a strategic edge in the increasingly complex and unpredictable defense.
The adoption of digital radio has ushered in a new era of advanced capabilities, prominently characterized by increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness across various industries. This transformation is particularly noteworthy in comparison to traditional analog radio systems, showcasing a paradigm shift in communication technology. Digital radio excels in efficiency owing to its ability to transmit and receive signals with greater clarity and reliability. Unlike analog signals, which are susceptible to interference and signal degradation, digital radio utilizes advanced modulation techniques that enhance the quality of communication. This translates into improved voice clarity, reduced noise, and an overall enhanced user experience. Moreover, digital radio systems are inherently more spectrally efficient than their analog counterparts. The utilization of digital modulation schemes allows for the transmission of a higher volume of information within the same bandwidth. This increased spectral efficiency is pivotal in addressing the growing demand for wireless communication, enabling more users and devices to operate without compromising performance.
Request a free sample copy or view report summary: Software Defined Radio Market Report
By type, the joint tactical radio system segment accounted for the largest share of the software defined radio market, exceeding 33.0% in 2025. The TETRA segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of over 11.0% from 2026 to 2033.
By component, the hardware segment accounted for the largest share of the software defined radio industry with the largest revenue share of over 41.0% in 2025. The services segment is expected to register the fastest CAGR from 2026 to 2033.
By frequency band, the high-frequency (HF) segment accounted for the largest share of the software defined radio market in 2025. The ultra-high-frequency (UHF) segment is expected to register the fastest CAGR from 2026 to 2033.
By platform, the ground segment accounted for the largest market share in 2025. The airborne segment is expected to register the fastest CAGR from 2026 to 2033.
By end-use, the aerospace & defense segment dominated the software defined radio market with the largest revenue share of over 24.0% in 2025. The commercial segment is expected to register the fastest CAGR from 2026 to 2033.
North America dominated the software defined radio market with a revenue share of over 34.0% in 2025. The U.S. software defined radio industry held a dominant position in 2025.
The Asia Pacific software defined radio industry is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of over 10.0% from 2026 to 2033.
Grand View Research has segmented global software defined radio market report based on type, component, frequency band, platform, end-use, and region:
Software Defined Radio Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
General Purpose Radio
Joint Tactical Radio System
Cognitive Radio
TETRA
Software Defined Radio Component Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Hardware
Antenna
Transmitter
Receiver
Others
Software
Services
Software Defined Radio Frequency Band Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Software Defined Radio Platform Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Ground
Naval
Airborne
Space
Software Defined Radio End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Aerospace & Defense
Telecommunication
Public Safety
Commercial
Others
Software Defined Radio Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Europe
UK
Germany
France
Asia Pacific
China
Australia
Japan
India
South Korea
Latin America
Brazil
Mexico
Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
South Africa
List of Key Players of Software Defined Radio Market
L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
RTX Corporation
Thales Group
General Dynamics Corporation
Northrop Grumman Corporation
BAE Systems Plc
Elbit Systems Ltd.
Leonardo S.p.A.
Collins Aerospace
Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.
"The quality of research they have done for us has been excellent..."