Global spending on RF-based Electronic Warfare (EW) systems is forecast to grow to over $9.3 billion through 2022. The Strategy Analytics Advanced Defense Systems (ADS) service forecast model, "Airborne EW (EA) Systems and Components Forecast 2012-2022," predicts that a future emphasis shift back towards reestablishing airborne EW capabilities that can counter anti-access, area-denial systems will translate into spending on airborne EW systems accounting for over 35 percent of this global spending.
The renewed focus on Electronic Attack (EA) capabilities will provide opportunities for conventional platforms dedicated to EW capabilities, e.g. Boeing's EA-18G as well as other fast-jet and aircraft platforms. This will be supplemented by the potential capabilities that fifth generation platforms such as the F-35 will bring, underpinned by systems such as the Next Generation Jammer (NGJ), as well as air-launched, podded and towed systems. The analysis also forecasts increasing penetration of EW payloads on UAS platforms, with shipments accounting for 32% of total EW system shipments in 2022.
The increasingly congested and complex spectrum environment will require capable EA systems that are able to operate across wider bandwidths to enable full protection of assets. This emphasis will translate to the associated market for components growing at a CAGR approaching 10 percent through 2022. The emphasis on delivering digital flexibility will drive demand for Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM)-based jammers. The need to provide wide bandwidth and high power will enable the GaN semiconductor opportunity to grow at a CAGR of over 45 percent.
The Strategy Analytics Advanced Defense Systems (ADS) service forecast model (clients have full access), “Airborne EW (EA) Systems and Components Forecast 2012-2022,” provides analysis on the airborne EW market detailing forecasts for system shipments through to component level demand.
Join Strategy Analytics for Electronic Warfare Europe 2014 (Edinburgh, UK, 13th-15th May). This event is the leading conference and exhibition in Europe in 2014 and will be of interest to leaders and operators across government, defence and industry that are shaping the future of EW. Topics covered during the Symposium sessions will include national perspectives, technological developments and future outlook, and will be complemented with an exhibition providing an opportunity for networking. The Strategy Analytics team will be on hand and available for one-to-one meetings to discuss trends and outlook for the EW sector.
Also, check out my guest column on RF Globalnet this month.
Asif
