Man Portable Military Electronics Market - Global Industry Research Analysis

Man Portable Military Electronics Market Insights

According to Market Research Store, the global man portable military electronics market size was valued at around USD 6.60 billion in 2023 and is estimated to reach USD 12.54 billion by 2032, to register a CAGR of approximately 7.4% in terms of revenue during the forecast period 2024-2032.

The man portable military electronics report provides a comprehensive analysis of the market, including its size, share, growth trends, revenue details, and other crucial information regarding the target market. It also covers the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges till 2032.

Global Man Portable Military Electronics Market: Overview

The Man Portable Military Electronics Market refers to a range of electronic devices and systems designed for military use, specifically portable equipment that can be carried by soldiers during operations. This market includes communication devices (such as radios and satellite phones), navigation systems (GPS devices), surveillance equipment (night vision goggles, thermal imaging cameras), electronic warfare tools, and other portable devices essential for tactical operations. These technologies are built to withstand harsh environmental conditions, offering soldiers enhanced operational capabilities and safety during combat.

The market is driven by the increasing demand for advanced, portable electronic systems that enhance the situational awareness, mobility, and effectiveness of military personnel in the field. The rise of modern warfare tactics, which emphasize network-centric operations, and the growing need for effective communication and real-time intelligence sharing among soldiers have boosted the adoption of man-portable military electronics. Furthermore, technological advancements in miniaturization, power efficiency, and ruggedness have enabled the development of more sophisticated, lighter, and more durable devices.

Key Highlights

• The man portable military electronics market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period.
• The global man portable military electronics market was estimated to be worth approximately USD 6.60 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach a value of USD 12.54 billion by 2032.
• The growth of the man portable military electronics market is being driven by a confluence of factors, including increased military spending globally, the growing demand for advanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, and the ongoing technological advancements in miniaturization, power efficiency, and sensor technologies.
• Based on the product, the ISTAR segment is growing at a high rate and is projected to dominate the market.
• On the basis of application, the army segment is projected to swipe the largest market share.
• By region, North America is expected to dominate the global market during the forecast period.

Man Portable Military Electronics Market: Dynamics

Key Drivers

• Technological Advancements: Miniaturization of electronics, advancements in battery technology, and integration of AI/ML are enabling smaller, lighter, and more powerful devices for soldiers.
• Increased Defense Spending: Growing global defense budgets, driven by geopolitical tensions and emerging threats, are fueling investments in advanced military technologies, including man-portable electronics.
• Need for Situational Awareness: The demand for enhanced situational awareness on the battlefield is driving the development and adoption of advanced sensors, communication systems, and surveillance equipment.
• Modernized Warfare: Modern warfare increasingly relies on networked systems and data-driven decision-making, necessitating advanced communication and data processing capabilities at the individual soldier level.

Restraints

• High Costs: Research, development, and production of advanced man-portable military electronics can be very expensive.
• Ruggedization and Environmental Challenges: Designing and manufacturing equipment that can withstand harsh environments (extreme temperatures, humidity, dust, shock) while maintaining performance is challenging.
• Power Consumption: Balancing performance with power consumption is crucial for battery-powered devices.
• Cybersecurity Threats: Protecting sensitive data and communication systems from cyberattacks is a major concern.

Opportunities

• Integration of AI/ML: Integrating AI/ML capabilities into devices for enhanced target recognition, threat assessment, and situational awareness.
• Development of Wearable Technologies: Expanding the use of wearable technologies, such as smartwatches and exoskeletons, to enhance soldier capabilities.
• Focus on Energy Efficiency: Developing more energy-efficient components and power management systems to extend battery life.
• Exploring New Materials and Technologies: Utilizing advanced materials like lightweight composites and flexible electronics to improve performance and reduce weight.

Challenges

• Maintaining Technological Superiority: Staying ahead of the rapidly evolving technological landscape and maintaining a competitive edge in military technology.
• Ensuring Cybersecurity and Data Security: Protecting sensitive data and communication systems from cyberattacks and ensuring the security of military operations.
• Meeting the Demands of Modern Warfare: Adapting to the evolving demands of modern warfare, such as asymmetric threats and urban combat scenarios.
• Balancing Performance with Weight and Size: Striking the right balance between performance, weight, and size constraints to ensure the effectiveness and usability of these devices by soldiers.

Man Portable Military Electronics Market: Report Scope

Man Portable Military Electronics Market: Segmentation Insights

The global man portable military electronics market is divided by product, application, and region.

Segmentation Insights by Product

Based on Product, the global man portable military electronics market is divided into ISTAR, command and control, imaging, force protection, and ancillary electronics.

The ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) segment is another dominant area in the market, driven by the rising demand for real-time intelligence and battlefield surveillance. Man-portable ISTAR systems include reconnaissance drones, lightweight radar systems, and handheld thermal and night vision devices, all of which provide critical data to military forces. These systems are essential for monitoring enemy movements, identifying threats, and improving overall mission effectiveness. As modern warfare increasingly relies on data-driven operations, investments in ISTAR capabilities continue to grow, with ongoing advancements in sensor technology and artificial intelligence further strengthening this segment.

The Command and Control segment holds a significant share in the Man Portable Military Electronics Market, as it plays a critical role in battlefield communication, coordination, and decision-making. These systems enable real-time data transmission, tactical planning, and operational control, ensuring that military units remain connected and informed during missions. Command and control electronics include portable communication radios, tactical data links, and battlefield management systems that enhance situational awareness and streamline mission execution. The increasing need for advanced network-centric warfare capabilities and secure, encrypted communication solutions is driving the growth of this segment, with continuous advancements in lightweight and ruggedized electronics enhancing operational efficiency.

The Imaging segment is growing rapidly, as modern military operations require high-resolution visual data for reconnaissance, targeting, and navigation. This category includes handheld and wearable night vision goggles, thermal imaging cameras, and laser rangefinders that improve soldiers' ability to operate in low-light or obscured environments. These imaging devices play a crucial role in target identification, navigation, and battlefield assessment, enhancing situational awareness and reducing risks. The integration of augmented reality (AR) and AI-powered image processing into these systems is expected to drive further growth in this segment, enabling more effective decision-making in combat scenarios.

The Force Protection segment focuses on safeguarding soldiers from threats such as enemy fire, explosives, and hazardous environments. This includes man-portable countermeasure systems, electronic warfare (EW) devices, and threat detection sensors that help mitigate risks in combat zones. Force protection electronics also encompass wearable soldier protection gear, such as advanced body armor systems with embedded sensors that monitor vital signs and environmental conditions. As asymmetric warfare and threats like improvised explosive devices (IEDs) continue to challenge military forces, the demand for cutting-edge force protection solutions is increasing, leading to continuous innovation in portable defense electronics.

The Ancillary Electronics segment includes a broad range of support devices that enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of military operations. These include ruggedized power sources, battlefield computing devices, GPS navigation units, and wearable biometric sensors that provide critical operational support to soldiers. Ancillary electronics play a key role in ensuring that other mission-critical systems function optimally, supporting mobility, endurance, and survivability in complex environments. As the demand for lightweight, energy-efficient, and multifunctional electronics grows, this segment is expected to witness steady expansion, with developments in battery technology and miniaturization further enhancing portability and durability.

Segmentation Insights by Application

On the basis of Application, the global man portable military electronics market is bifurcated into army, air force, and naval.

Army segment dominates due to the widespread use of portable electronics in infantry, special operations, and armored divisions. Army personnel rely on a wide range of man-portable electronics, including command and control systems, ISTAR devices, imaging equipment, and force protection technologies, to enhance situational awareness and mission effectiveness. Lightweight, ruggedized communication radios, night vision goggles, thermal imaging cameras, and wearable soldier systems are critical for modern infantry operations. The emphasis on network-centric warfare, along with the integration of artificial intelligence and real-time data analytics, continues to drive innovation in army-focused military electronics. The growing need for counterterrorism operations, border security, and asymmetric warfare capabilities is further fueling the demand for portable electronic systems tailored for ground forces.

The Air Force segment is expanding as military aviation increasingly relies on advanced electronic systems for enhanced situational awareness, reconnaissance, and targeting. Man-portable electronics used by air force personnel include handheld GPS navigation units, portable radar systems, and communication devices that support ground-air coordination. ISTAR equipment, such as lightweight drones and portable sensor arrays, plays a crucial role in intelligence gathering and threat detection. Additionally, air force special operations units require high-performance imaging and force protection systems for missions in challenging environments. The development of next-generation avionics and electronic warfare systems is further driving the adoption of man-portable electronics within air force applications, ensuring seamless integration with broader aerial combat and reconnaissance strategies.

The Naval segment also plays a significant role in the Man Portable Military Electronics Market, particularly in maritime security, amphibious operations, and naval special forces missions. Naval forces require portable communication systems, surveillance equipment, and imaging devices to enhance maritime situational awareness and coastal defense operations. Man-portable ISTAR systems, including handheld thermal cameras and sonar-based detection devices, are essential for monitoring and identifying threats in naval environments. Special operations units, such as marine commandos and divers, depend on compact, durable electronics for underwater navigation, reconnaissance, and force protection. As naval warfare becomes increasingly technology-driven, the demand for advanced portable electronics designed for harsh maritime conditions continues to grow.

Man Portable Military Electronics Market: Regional Insights

• North America currently dominate the global man portable military electronics market

North America is the leading region in the man portable military electronics market, primarily due to high defense spending by the United States. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) consistently invests in advanced soldier systems, focusing on communication, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) technologies. The presence of key defense contractors such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and L3Harris Technologies further strengthens the market. Canada also contributes to market growth through its ongoing military modernization programs and participation in NATO-led initiatives.

Europe is a significant market for man portable military electronics, with major contributions from countries such as the UK, Germany, France, and Russia. The region is witnessing increased investments in defense modernization programs, particularly in soldier communication systems, thermal imaging devices, and portable radar systems. NATO members are actively upgrading their military capabilities to enhance interoperability, contributing to market expansion. Additionally, the rising geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe are accelerating the demand for advanced soldier systems.

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the man portable military electronics market due to rising defense budgets and increasing security threats. China, India, Japan, and South Korea are investing heavily in advanced military technologies to strengthen their defense forces. China's military modernization efforts, India’s focus on indigenization under the "Make in India" initiative, and South Korea’s advancements in defense technology are key drivers in this region. Additionally, territorial disputes and evolving asymmetric warfare tactics are prompting nations to enhance their soldier communication and surveillance capabilities.

Latin America has a developing market for man portable military electronics, with Brazil and Mexico leading the region. The demand is primarily driven by counterinsurgency operations, border security concerns, and drug cartel monitoring efforts. While defense budgets in the region are relatively lower compared to other regions, there is a growing need for modern surveillance and communication systems to support military and law enforcement activities.

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is witnessing steady growth in the man portable military electronics market due to ongoing conflicts, counterterrorism operations, and regional defense modernization initiatives. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Israel are investing in cutting-edge military electronics, including night vision devices, tactical communication systems, and portable electronic warfare solutions. Africa, on the other hand, is seeing a rising demand for man-portable surveillance and border security systems, particularly in nations facing insurgencies and extremist threats.

Man Portable Military Electronics Market: Competitive Landscape

The report provides an in-depth analysis of companies operating in the man portable military electronics market, including their geographic presence, business strategies, product offerings, market share, and recent developments. This analysis helps to understand market competition.

Some of the major players in the global man portable military electronics market include:

• Codan
• Cojot
• Elbit Systems
• Exelis
• FLIR Systems
• General Dynamics
• Harris
• Rockwell Collins
• SAAB
• Safran
• Thales

The global man portable military electronics market is segmented as follows:

By Product

• ISTAR
• Command and Control
• Imaging
• Force Protection
• Ancillary Electronics

By Application

• Army
• Air Force
• Naval

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • U.K.
  • France
  • Germany
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Rest of Latin America
• The Middle East and Africa
  • GCC Countries
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East Africa

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