The global Tactical Communication market is expected to rise from USD 19.33 Billion in 2024 to USD 28.86 Billion by 2030, growing at 7.05% CAGR, driven by rising consumer awareness
Tactical CommunicationThe tactical communication industry plays a pivotal role in enhancing the effectiveness and operational efficiency of military, defense, and security forces across the globe. This industry encompasses the technologies, systems, and devices that allow seamless and secure communication within a tactical environment, which is critical in combat, peacekeeping, surveillance, disaster response, and other security-focused operations. As geopolitical tensions and security threats continue to evolve, the demand for robust, real-time, and secure communication solutions has surged, making the tactical communication industry a vital component in modern defense strategies. At its core, tactical communication systems are designed to provide reliable, high-performance communication under the most challenging and hostile conditions. These systems include voice, data, and video communication devices, integrated into a cohesive infrastructure that can operate in environments with limited or no network connectivity, such as during military operations in remote locations or in conflict zones. Tactical communication solutions ensure that personnel, equipment, and units stay connected and can coordinate efforts efficiently, even in the most uncertain and dangerous conditions. One of the key drivers of the tactical communication industry’s growth is the increasing need for interoperable systems across different branches of military forces, as well as between national defense agencies and international allies. As military operations often require coordinated efforts from various entities, including ground forces, air support, and naval units, it is crucial for communication technologies to be compatible across a wide range of platforms and jurisdictions. This interoperability ensures that different military branches or coalition forces can exchange critical information rapidly and securely, facilitating faster decision-making and improved operational outcomes. In addition to military applications, tactical communication systems are also gaining traction in other sectors, such as law enforcement, emergency services, and homeland security. These sectors rely on effective communication to manage emergency situations, respond to natural disasters, or counteract terrorism and criminal activities. Tactical communication solutions allow these agencies to maintain control over operations, enabling coordination among first responders and command centers, as well as securing sensitive data. For example, during a disaster response scenario, emergency teams can relay real-time data from affected areas, ensuring that the right resources are allocated in a timely and efficient manner. According to the research report “Global Tactical Communication Market Outlook, 2030” published by Bonafide Research, the global market is projected to reach market size of USD 28.86 illion by 2030 increasing from USD 19.33 Billion in 2024, growing with 7.05% CAGR by 2025-30. Technological advancements in the tactical communication industry have been critical in addressing the evolving needs of defense and security forces. The transition from traditional analog systems to modern digital platforms has greatly enhanced the reliability, security, and scalability of tactical communication networks. Digital systems provide encrypted communication, protecting against eavesdropping and cyber threats, while also offering greater bandwidth to handle complex data transmission. Moreover, innovations like Software-Defined Radios (SDRs) and Advanced Communications Networks (ACNs) are improving the flexibility of tactical communication systems, enabling forces to quickly adapt to new challenges and operational demands. SDRs, in particular, allow for reconfiguration of communication frequencies and protocols without requiring new hardware, providing operational flexibility in dynamic environments. The integration of satellite communication (SATCOM) and wireless technologies has further revolutionized tactical communication. SATCOM allows military and security forces to maintain global communication capabilities, even in areas where terrestrial networks are unavailable or damaged. Meanwhile, advancements in wireless technologies, such as 5G and beyond, are paving the way for faster data transmission, lower latency, and enhanced connectivity for soldiers and responders in the field. These technologies can also be combined with autonomous systems, such as drones or unmanned vehicles, to extend communication coverage and provide situational awareness in otherwise inaccessible areas. As the global security landscape continues to evolve, so too does the tactical communication industry. Emerging threats such as cyber warfare, electronic warfare, and hybrid threats require communication systems that are not only reliable but also resilient and adaptive to various types of attacks. Manufacturers of tactical communication equipment are therefore investing heavily in developing solutions that can withstand jamming, hacking, and other forms of interference that could jeopardize mission success. This has led to an increased focus on the development of secure communication protocols, encryption techniques, and anti-jamming technologies that enhance the robustness of tactical communication networks.
Click Here to Download this information in a PDF
A Bonafide Research industry report provides in-depth market analysis, trends, competitive insights, and strategic recommendations to help businesses make informed decisions.
Download SampleMarket Drivers • Increased Geopolitical Instability and Security Threats: The rise in geopolitical tensions, terrorism, and hybrid warfare has heightened the demand for robust tactical communication systems. Armed forces and security agencies require highly reliable and secure communication to execute complex military operations, counter terrorism, and respond to border security issues. As the nature of threats evolves, nations are investing in advanced tactical communication solutions to ensure their forces are well-prepared for diverse and dynamic security situations. • Technological Advancements in Communication Systems: The development of advanced technologies such as Software-Defined Radios (SDRs), 5G, and satellite communications is accelerating the growth of the tactical communication industry. These technologies enable faster, more secure, and more reliable communication, especially in challenging environments like remote or hostile regions. The ability to transmit large amounts of data, including real-time video and situational awareness information, has become a critical driver for military and law enforcement agencies to maintain operational superiority. Market Challenges • Cybersecurity and Data Protection: As tactical communication systems become more digital and interconnected, they become increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. Ensuring that communication networks remain secure from hacking, jamming, and other forms of electronic warfare is a significant challenge. With adversaries capable of deploying advanced cyber threats, maintaining the integrity and security of communication channels is paramount, requiring continuous upgrades and innovations in encryption and anti-jamming technologies. • Interoperability and Integration Issues: In many military and security operations, different forces or agencies, including those from various nations or branches of the armed forces, need to work together. However, a lack of standardization or compatibility between communication systems can hinder effective collaboration. The challenge of ensuring seamless interoperability between different communication networks and platforms remains a significant obstacle. Developing integrated solutions that work across a range of systems, devices, and agencies is a complex and costly endeavor. Market Trends • Shift Towards Integrated and Multi-Functional Systems: There's a growing trend towards integrating voice, data, video, and situational awareness tools into a single platform. This trend allows operators to manage all forms of communication and operational intelligence through a single, unified system, reducing complexity and improving operational efficiency. By offering multi-functional, all-in-one solutions, manufacturers are enhancing the usability and effectiveness of tactical communication networks. • Adoption of AI and Autonomous Systems: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into tactical communication systems is gaining traction. AI is being used to optimize communication networks in real-time, predict maintenance needs, and even enhance decision-making capabilities by analyzing vast amounts of operational data. Additionally, the use of autonomous systems like drones and unmanned vehicles is driving new innovations in communication, as these systems require secure and continuous data transmission for effective control and situational awareness.
By Platform | Ground | |
Airborne | ||
Naval | ||
Unmanned Systems | ||
By Application | Command & Control | |
Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnissance | ||
Communication | ||
Combat | ||
By Type | Soldier Radios | |
Manpacks | ||
Vehicular Intercommunication Radio (VIC) | ||
High Capacity Data Radio (HCDR) | ||
By Frequency | Single Frequency | |
Multi Frequency | ||
By Technology | Time division multiplexing (TDM) | |
Next generation network (NGN) | ||
Geography | North America | United States |
Canada | ||
Mexico | ||
Europe | Germany | |
United Kingdom | ||
France | ||
Italy | ||
Spain | ||
Russia | ||
Asia-Pacific | China | |
Japan | ||
India | ||
Australia | ||
South Korea | ||
South America | Brazil | |
Argentina | ||
Colombia | ||
MEA | United Arab Emirates | |
Saudi Arabia | ||
South Africa |
The ground sector is leading the tactical communication market due to its critical role in ensuring secure, reliable, and real-time communication during military operations, where personnel and assets are often deployed in hostile or remote environments. Ground forces form the backbone of military operations, whether it's in combat, peacekeeping missions, or disaster response. They require highly reliable and secure communication systems to maintain coordination and ensure operational success in challenging conditions. The demand for advanced tactical communication systems is particularly high for ground units, as these forces are often dispersed across large areas and face communication challenges due to terrain, environmental factors, or electronic warfare threats. Ground operations necessitate continuous communication for voice, data, and situational awareness to support real-time decision-making, enhance command and control, and enable synchronized actions between units. As the threats faced by ground forces become increasingly sophisticated, the need for resilient, encrypted, and interoperable communication solutions has surged. This need is further driven by advancements in digital communication technologies, such as Software-Defined Radios (SDRs), satellite communications, and the integration of AI and autonomous systems, all of which enhance the efficiency and flexibility of communication on the ground. Consequently, the ground sector's unique requirements for mobility, adaptability, and security make it the leading segment in the tactical communication market. Communication is leading in the tactical communication market because it is the foundational element that ensures operational success, enabling real-time coordination, decision-making, and effective execution of missions in complex and high-stakes environments. Communication is the cornerstone of all military and security operations, acting as the lifeline that connects personnel, equipment, and command centers. In tactical operations, the ability to maintain clear, secure, and continuous communication is essential for ensuring situational awareness, synchronizing actions, and making informed decisions under pressure. Whether in combat zones, peacekeeping missions, or emergency response situations, the success of these operations relies heavily on seamless communication between different units and stakeholders. As military strategies evolve and technology advances, the importance of communication systems has only grown, with an increasing need for integration across various platforms such as voice, data, video, and real-time surveillance feeds. Communication allows for the timely dissemination of critical intelligence, the coordination of actions between ground forces, air support, and naval units, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances in hostile environments. Furthermore, the growing complexity of modern warfare, including the rise of cyber threats, electronic warfare, and asymmetric tactics, has underscored the need for communication systems that are resilient, encrypted, and capable of operating in environments with limited or no network infrastructure. As a result, the demand for advanced communication technologies, including Software-Defined Radios (SDRs), satellite communication, and AI-driven solutions, has become a driving force in the tactical communication market, making communication the leading factor in the industry's growth and evolution. Soldier radios are leading in the tactical communication market because they serve as the primary communication tool for individual warfighters, enabling real-time, secure, and mobile connectivity in the most dynamic and demanding operational environments. In modern military operations, frontline soldiers require instant access to information, commands, and situational updates, making soldier radios an indispensable part of tactical communication systems. These portable, rugged devices provide real-time voice and data exchange, allowing troops to maintain direct communication with their squads, commanders, and other units while on the move. As operations often unfold in unpredictable and decentralized combat zones, soldier radios offer the mobility and flexibility needed to adapt quickly and coordinate effectively. They support encrypted communication to protect against interception and can operate in environments with poor infrastructure or under electronic warfare conditions. The growing emphasis on network-centric warfare, where every soldier acts as a node in a larger communication web, has further elevated the importance of soldier radios. They now increasingly feature advanced capabilities like GPS tracking, video streaming, and integration with battlefield management systems, turning the individual soldier into a highly informed and connected combat asset. Additionally, investments in next-generation soldier systems—designed to enhance survivability, awareness, and mission effectiveness—are driving the development and adoption of more sophisticated radio technologies. As a result, the demand for lightweight, durable, and high-performance communication tools for dismounted soldiers continues to grow, positioning soldier radios as the leading product in the tactical communication market. Multi-frequency systems are leading in the tactical communication market because they provide unmatched operational flexibility, allowing seamless communication across various frequency bands to ensure connectivity in diverse mission scenarios and electromagnetic environments. In the rapidly evolving landscape of tactical operations, the ability to communicate across multiple frequency bands has become crucial for mission success. Multi-frequency communication systems enable military and security personnel to operate across HF (high frequency), VHF (very high frequency), UHF (ultra high frequency), and even satellite bands, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity regardless of terrain, distance, or atmospheric conditions. This versatility is especially valuable in joint operations where different units may be using distinct communication platforms and frequency ranges. Multi-frequency capability allows seamless interoperability between ground forces, air support, naval units, and command centers, significantly enhancing coordination and response time. Moreover, as electronic warfare and signal jamming become more prevalent threats, having access to a broader spectrum allows operators to switch frequencies dynamically, reducing the risk of communication blackouts and enhancing survivability. These systems also support data-intensive applications such as real-time video, battlefield mapping, and encrypted messaging, making them indispensable in modern warfare scenarios. With the increasing demand for Software-Defined Radios (SDRs) and other flexible communication solutions that can adapt to multiple mission profiles, the dominance of multi-frequency technology is a reflection of the need for resilient, adaptive, and future-ready tactical communication systems. Next Generation Networks (NGNs) are leading in the tactical communication market because they enable integrated, high-speed, and secure communication across diverse platforms, supporting real-time data sharing and interoperability in complex, multi-domain operations. As modern military operations grow more sophisticated and data-driven, the need for agile, scalable, and interoperable communication infrastructure has made Next Generation Networks (NGNs) a critical component of tactical communication strategies. NGNs support a unified communication architecture that can seamlessly handle voice, data, video, and sensor feeds across multiple platforms—land, air, sea, and cyber—enhancing situational awareness and command efficiency. Unlike traditional networks, NGNs are built on IP-based architectures, which offer greater bandwidth, faster data transfer, and more robust security protocols. This allows commanders and field personnel to access and share real-time intelligence, such as live drone feeds, satellite imagery, and mission-critical updates, without delay. NGNs also support the integration of emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and cloud-based analytics, enabling smarter decision-making and network automation in high-pressure environments. Their ability to dynamically reconfigure in response to network threats or shifting tactical requirements ensures communication remains uninterrupted and secure, even in the face of cyber warfare or physical infrastructure damage. As militaries around the world modernize their communication systems to support net-centric warfare and multi-domain operations, NGNs are becoming the backbone of tactical communication, driving their leadership position in the market.
Click Here to Download this information in a PDF
North America is leading in the tactical communication market due to its significant defense spending, advanced military infrastructure, and continuous investment in cutting-edge communication technologies. North America, particularly the United States, dominates the tactical communication market largely because of its unmatched military capabilities and consistent prioritization of defense modernization. The U.S. Department of Defense allocates a substantial portion of its budget toward upgrading communication systems to ensure superiority in global operations. This includes the procurement of advanced soldier radios, satellite communication systems, Software-Defined Radios (SDRs), and integrated battlefield networks that enable seamless coordination across all branches of the armed forces. Furthermore, North America is home to some of the world’s leading defense contractors and technology firms that drive innovation in secure, interoperable, and multi-domain tactical communication solutions. The region also benefits from a well-established ecosystem of research institutions and defense technology developers that collaborate to push the boundaries of military communication. Additionally, the strategic focus on network-centric warfare and multi-domain operations has intensified the demand for next-generation communication platforms that can support real-time data exchange, AI integration, and cyber-resilience. These factors, combined with frequent military exercises, strong government support, and high readiness levels, solidify North America’s position as the global leader in the tactical communication market.
Click Here to Download this information in a PDF
• In May 2022, Thales was awarded an IDIQ contract by the US Army to deliver upgraded tactical radios as part of the Combat Net Radio (CNR) upgrading program. The 10-year contract for the Combat Net Radio (CNR) program has a five-year basic ordering period and an additional five-year optional purchasing period. • In May 2022, L3Harris Technologies was awarded an IDIQ contract increase by USSOCOM for its Falcon IV AN/PRC-167 radio systems. USSOCOM raised the initial IDIQ cap from USD 255 million to $552 million. • In February 2022, L3Harris Technologies Inc. developed secure manpack radios with integrated communications security for the U.S. Special Operations Command. These radios allow commando teams to communicate on frequencies ranging from 30 to 2,600 MHz while maintaining embedded security.
We are friendly and approachable, give us a call.