World Airborne Surveillance and Reconnaissance System Markets

Abstract

Advantages of UAVs over Manned Platforms Spur Market Growth

Unmanned aerial vehicles' (UAVs') ability to provide more options in time-sensitive target monitoring and selection as well as seek-and-destroy operations could revolutionize conventional military operations and act as a force multiplier by the end of this decade. UAVs are also more dispensable and can be used in high-risk environments instead of manned systems to provide equal or superior battlefield coverage and response time.

This Frost & Sullivan research examines the World Airborne Surveillance and Reconnaissance Systems Markets. It offers revenue forecasts by market segment, covers key drivers and restraints, as well as provides strategic recommendations to overcome market challenges. The market has been segmented into three types of platforms - fixed wing, rotary wing, and UAVs.

Time-critical Information Essential to Avoid Collateral Damage in Modern Warfare

Systems that provide more accurate data to enable officials to make informed tactical decisions are in great demand. Real-time media coverage of military conflicts necessitates ethical warfare to avoid collateral damage that could impair political relations. According to the analyst, "The ability to obtain and disseminate crucial intelligence increases operational effectiveness and reduces the likelihood of friendly fire incidents and targeting of non-combatants."

Surveillance and reconnaissance (SR) systems' success in Afghanistan, Kosovo, India, Iraq, Pakistan, and Yemen has reinforced their position in the market. The United States is encouraging its European and Asia Pacific allies to improve their military capabilities to be better prepared to combat global terrorism and meet the needs created by coalition warfare. The development and integration of military networks will drive many countries to update or acquire systems.

Political and Economic Conditions Conducive to Increased Sales in the Asia Pacific

"Regional instabilities coupled with recovering economies make the Asia Pacific a significant market for SR systems," says the analyst. With tensions between China and Taiwan as well as India and Pakistan threatening to escalate, there is ample scope for boosting sales in the region. Japan, India, and Australia are anticipated to generate the maximum revenues. China, despite its relatively closed market, can also be lucrative for those willing to negotiate the challenges.

Budgetary constraints are forcing the governments in the region to consider cheaper alternatives to maintain military readiness as well as improve or replace outdated platforms and equipment. Unmanned SR systems can decrease costs in operations and support by reducing requirements of pilot proficiency and continuation training sorties, resulting in life cycle cost savings in areas and missions where manned systems might have been employed.