Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market Size & Share 2026-2035

Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market Size

The global marine onboard communication and control systems market was valued at USD 9.8 billion in 2025. The market is expected to grow from USD 10.6 billion in 2026 to USD 16.1 billion in 2031 & USD 21.6 billion in 2035, at a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period according to the latest report published by Global Market Insights Inc.

The market is growing at a steady pace due to the increasing digitalization and smart shipping solutions in the maritime industry. For instance, in march 2025 IMO developed a strategy on maritime digitalization with work in FAL 49 in the formal start of extensive collaboration. Once adopted, this strategy will focus on building a global maritime sector where ships and ports are interoperable, enabling seamless, standardized, and automated movement, using digital navigation, exchanging information electronically, utilizing AI to streamline shipping operations. This should spur a wave of investment in navigation systems, communications (onboard), and complex integrated command systems for both commercial and naval vessels.^{[1]International Maritime Organization, imo.org}

The maritime onboard communication and control systems market is also boosted by the adoption of satellite-enabled maritime connectivity & vessel digitization initiatives The shipping industry is undergoing massive transformations toward smart shipping. To enable these transformation, maritime operators are increasingly investing in high-bandwidth connectivity for real-time vessel monitoring, remote diagnostics, optimization in navigation and improving the life on the maritime crew.

For instance, SES completed the FCC acquisition in July 2025 making SES a leading satellite operator across multiple orbits. Its satellite fleet now enhances broadband connectivity for the maritime industry, improves global coverage and boosts the deployment of future communications services to vessels, from commercial shipping to offshore operations.^{[2]US federal communication commission, fcc.gov}

Maritime cybersecurity and digital governance implementation also spurring market growth because the IMO facilitation committee approved the IMO strategy on maritime digitalization along with new cyber measures. These new maritime cyber-measures by IMO aims to secure maritime digital infrastructure and ship to shore communications network. New mandatory cyber security requirement for maritime single-window system was also approved by committee for digitalizing global shipping.

These government and international organizations push on mandatory implementation of maritime cyber and digital governing standards which will increase the demand for secure on-board communication systems. Increasing government investments in digital navigation and smart port facilitation maritime authorities across globe are investing in digital navigation, information exchange, and smart port integration.

The ministry of oceans and fisheries, South Korea had declared in May 2025 the plan to expand international collaboration in maritime digital technologies and to lead the digital maritime international standardization. Through such global initiative a high demand will be witnessed for on board communication, navigation and control system during the forecast period.

Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market Trends

• The digital navigation and e-navigation technologies trend is becoming a mid-to-large trend in the maritime industry. IMO still promotes the converged digital navigation services and information sharing over the live ocean environment for safer navigation and more efficient operations. This trend is forecasted to go through 2035 with more adoption of integrated bridge system, digital navigation services, and automated reporting system by shipping companies.
• Cybersecurity has become the dominant trend among vessels which are becoming more digitally interconnected via digital communication networks. The IMO cyber risk management guidelines and the digitalization initiatives are prompting the vessel operators to implement secure communication schemes along with cyber-resilient onboard systems. The use of Maritime cybersecurity solution set is projected to rise substantially during the forecast period.
• Around the world, authorities and port bodies are building smart port infrastructure coupled with digital maritime ecosystems. This is done to enable efficient logistics and manage ship movements effectively. As the ships are linked with port community systems, digital corridors and maritime single-window systems, the need for self-interoperable communication and control systems are expected to gain more traction across global maritime world.

Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market Analysis

Based on by system type, the marine onboard communication and control systems market is divided into communication systems, navigation & positioning systems, integrated bridge & control systems, monitoring alarm & surveillance systems, and others.

• The communication systems segment led the market in 2025, and valued at USD 3.3 billion due to the rising uptake of satellite communication systems, ship to shore communication systems, vessel monitoring, and maritime safety communication systems on commercial, naval, and offshore vessels. Ongoing digitalization in the maritime sector and modernizing global maritime distress and safety systems (GMDSS), along with increased requirement to exchange information of real-time operations of the vessel, is fueling the communication systems market. Further, connected vessel operations and increased usage of the fleet management platforms are raising the adoption of fast and reliable marine onboard communication systems.
• The monitoring, alarm & surveillance systems segment is the fastest and anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10% over the forecast period. The ever-increasing need for maritime safety and security coupled with the surge in cybersecurity concerns in shipping vessels and extensive utilization of innovative vessel monitoring systems have driven the segment growth.
• Also, the investments in autonomous vessels, predictive maintenance technologies, remote asset management, and integrated surveillance systems for vessels are likely to accelerate demand for marine onboard monitoring, alarm and surveillance systems in coming years. Continuous advancements in sensor technology, A.I.-based marine analytics, and real-time condition monitoring systems have been supporting overall improvement in the operational intelligence of vessel and reliability of assets.

Based on the vessel type, the marine onboard communication and control systems market is divided into commercial vessels, defense & naval vessels, and special purpose vessels.

• The commercial vessels segment dominated the market in 2025, holding a 61.3% share. Due to substantial number of commercial fleets globally and growing adoption of various advanced communication and navigation systems. Escalating seaborne trade volume, growth in fleet expansion activities and growing regulatory mandates with regards to vessel tracking and maritime safety, are fueling demand for onboard communication and control systems.
• The segment is also aided by growing investments towards vessels digitalization, satellite connectivity, and integrated bridge system to increase vessel performance, efficiency and regulatory adherence.
• The defense & naval vessels segment is expected to witness growth at a CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period. It is due to increasing in-process naval modernizing initiatives, surge in military spending, and expanding investments in safe maritime communication networks, as well as in-control communication and navigation systems.
• Governments are actively focusing on deploying state-of-the-art surveillance capabilities, tactical and strategic communication, electronic warfare, battle management systems and advanced communication technology into existing naval fleets. Increasing global focus on maritime surveillance, defense, and network-centric warfare is accelerating deployment of sophisticated communication and onboard control systems for naval fleets.

Based on the installation type, the marine onboard communication and control systems market is divided into new build (OEM) and retrofit & aftermarket.

• The new build (OEM) segment dominated the market in 2025 and valued at USD 5.7 billion, this is attributed to increase in shipbuilding activities worldwide, upward trend in commercial and naval vessels’ deliveries and increase in installation of innovative communications systems such as navigation, automation and controls at the time of manufacturing the vessels. Shipowners, in conjunction with shipyards and OEMs, are working with equipment providers on an integrated approach for designing the ships.
• Retrofit & aftermarket segment is expected to witness growth at a CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period due to the increasing need of modernizing old commercial fleets and navy fleets, changing regulatory trends and rules across commercial and navy vessels with growing stringent regulations on maritime safety, security and cybersecurity new rules of the IMO communication system and navigation set and the increasing investments made by vessel owners towards satellite connectivity integrated bridge solutions cybersecurity solutions ship monitoring platforms and legacy communication systems upgradation and replacement with modern communication systems as per updated rules of the IMO communication.

North America Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market

North America held a share of 27.1% of marine onboard communication and control systems industry in 2025.

• The North America marine onboard communication and control systems industry is booming owing to a robust maritime trade network and advanced naval facilities and a rise in usage of digital vessel technologies. Need for effective ship-to-shore connectivity, advanced navigation systems, and real-time vessel monitoring services, drives adoption of such marine onboard communication infrastructure by shipowners and fleet operators, along with increasing maritime regulatory compliance and stringent cybersecurity demands.

• The region has been the beneficiary of major government investment in maritime modernization across its several nations, particularly North American nations like U.S. And Canada that has led to better marine domain awareness via state-of-the-art vessel tracking systems, vessel navigation tools and vessel traffic monitoring services. In addition to the emergence of digital maritime ecosystems and smart ports in North America that will be more and more reliant on interoperable communication standards for data transfer and a higher influx of next-gen Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems including bridge systems and satellite communication.

The U.S. marine onboard communication and control systems market was valued at USD 1.9 billion and USD 2 billion in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The market size reached USD 2.4 billion in 2025, growing from USD 2.2 billion in 2024.

• The United States contributes major to the North American revenue due to its huge amount of naval spending and commercial marine sector. moreover, due to the development in defense technology in the country the U.S. Navy as well as the U.S. coast guard continues to heavily invest in secure and advanced communication infrastructure and maritime surveillance and monitoring systems. Furthermore, as commercial vessels are increasingly adopting broadband satellite communication in combination with fleet management software and satellite navigation systems the demand for next-gen systems for effective operational monitoring and security compliance and crew management.
• The increasing importance on maritime resilience and cybersecurity is another significant market opportunity, with the more and more vessels connected with communication network and cloud, it would lead the owners to have more investment on cybersecurity and intelligent monitoring services.
• For instance, in January 2025 the US Coast Guard issued a Final Rule for minimum security standards (baseline) for all U.S. Flagged vessels, ports and offshore facilities to meet Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) cyber requirements. Under the rule ship owners and operators must develop a cybersecurity plan, identify an individual who serves as a cybersecurity officer, conduct cyber risk assessments and improve the cyber protections on ships for their onboard communications and operational technologies. This should expedite investment in secure maritime onboard communications, monitoring and control systems on commercial and government fleets.^{[3]US coast guard, uscg.mil}

Europe Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market

Europe marine onboard communication and control systems industry accounted for USD 2.4 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to show lucrative growth over the forecast period.

• The Europe marine onboard communication and control systems industry is anticipated to persist, with the segment predicted to show a moderate increase in its market size for the entire forecast period. This market development is being spurred by escalating investments in the digitization of the maritime sector, the refitting of old ships with new technology, and the strict regulations on marine safety applicable in EU countries. Many a shipping company is in a quest of improving its onboard communication network, which can be attributed to the rising number of ship owners who are looking forward to incorporate integrated bridge systems, satellite communication systems, monitoring networks for vessels and superior navigation systems onboard their ships.

• The favorable operating circumstances for marine onboard communication and control systems in this region are due to a considerable support provided by organizations including European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), which champions digital maritime services and voyage information management systems, apart from vessel traffic management and cyber-security in maritime environments. For instance, in January 2025, EMSA revealed an extension of their maritime digital services – maritime surveillance, traffic vessel monitoring, satellite communications support, maritime cybersecurity services and the European Maritime Single Window environment (EMS We). This push is set to hasten take-up of on-board communication, navigation and control systems in European fleets.^{[4]European maritime safety agency, europe.eu}

Germany dominates the Europe marine onboard communication and control systems market, showcasing strong growth potential.

• Germany held a dominant market share in terms of value in the marine onboard communication and control systems industry for Europe for 2025 and the trend is anticipated to continue throughout the projected future time. This position is mainly attributed to Germany’s considerable contribution to the marine technology industry, and it also possesses strong industrial capabilities for shipbuilding technologies. German technological pioneers and maritime equipment manufacturers are currently involved in a continuous series of upgrades regarding the use of vessels automation, secure maritime communications, and high-end integrated navigation systems for maritime vessels.
• Germany is playing a proactive role in terms of investing in maritime cyber-security measures, smart digital infrastructure for ports and services for the smart management of the vessel fleets which are driving up the market.
• Moreover, with the ongoing investment of the government in smart ports and maritime research programs in Germany the future market of the onboard communication and control systems is projected to be positive. The country has actively supported digital maritime transport routes and autonomous ship operations which is resulting in increasing requirement of communications, monitoring and control systems. Also, the growth in number of users opting satellite communications, autonomous ships, as well as predictive maintenance, has contributed to make Germany one of the leading markets in Europe region for this segment for coming years to come.

Asia Pacific Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market

The Asia Pacific marine onboard communication and control systems industry is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period.

• Asia Pacific marine onboard communication and control systems industry is projected to grow at the highest pace from 2023 to 2030, attributed to increased pace of maritime trade expansion, growing pace of shipbuilding activities and rapid rise in investments for maritime digitalization across China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia countries. These countries, collectively, have significantly invested in modernizing ports, expanding smart shipping operations, and developing advanced maritime communication infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency and maritime security.

• Growing utilization of marine communication technologies such as satellite communication systems, integrated bridge solutions, vessel monitoring platforms across commercial and defense marine fleet will also drive regional market expansion. Besides growing investments in new vessel development and modernization programs by the region's shipbuilding giants including China, Japan, and South Korea, increasing implementation of e-Navigation guidelines from IMO will prompt marine vessels to migrate to advanced communication, navigation and control systems.

India marine onboard communication and control systems market is estimated to grow with a significant CAGR, in the Asia Pacific market.  

• India expected to be one of the largest and fastest developing countries in the Asia Pacific region, given huge government investments on maritime transport including port modernization programs such as Sagarmala project, smart shipping services, and Maritime India Vision 2030, Digital India initiatives will result in huge demand for vessel communication, vessel monitoring and navigation system technologies for expanding coastal shipping activities, ongoing port expansion projects and marine safety.
• The government has also been promoting digitalization across the sector to improve the overall maritime ecosystem. Rise in the Indian Navy’s and Coast Guard’s spend on command-and-control systems will fuel market growth in the years to come. Moreover, focus towards development of smart ports, maritime digital corridors and autonomous ship technology are paving way for huge growth for marine communication and control systems players in the region. Nations like China, South Korea, Singapore, and India have launched initiatives to build a digitally integrated maritime eco-system supported by seamless ship-to-shore communications and data exchange for efficient maritime logistics.

Middle East and Africa Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market

Saudi Arabia marine onboard communication and control systems industry to experience substantial growth in the Middle East and Africa.

• The Middle East & Africa (MEA) marine onboard communication and control systems industry is anticipated to experience stable growth over the forecast period in response to rising investments in maritime security, port modernization and digital maritime infrastructure. Governments in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations are expanding maritime surveillance, vessel traffic management and coastal security capabilities to ensure the smooth flow of trade and maintain strategic shipping lanes. The utilization of advanced communication, navigation and monitoring systems is now commonplace in commercial ships, navies and offshore facilities, which is spurring requirements for onboard communication and control equipment.

• For instance, the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has joined forces with Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), to improve maritime safety with an advanced satellite technology, smart digital systems and integrated connectivity platform during GITEX Global 2025. This initiative will expand maritime traffic management, remote vessel surveillance and digital communication networks with improved monitoring, in addition to, support the expansion of onboard connectivity and control systems.^[5]

Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market Share

The marine onboard communication and control systems industry is dominated by major industry players including Thales Group, Kongsberg Maritime, BAE Systems, L3Harris Technologies, and Northrop Grumman. These players are estimated to constitute the major part approximately 47.4% of the market in the year 2025. The dominance of these companies is mainly driven by their broad product portfolio which include maritime communication, integrated bridge systems, command and control systems, surveillance systems, and vessel automation solutions. These companies are continuously investing in digital maritime technologies, satellite connectivity, secure communication networks, and advanced navigation systems in order to compete with the key industry players.

The marine communication and control system solutions developed by these key companies assist commercial and naval operators in meeting IMO safety regulations, GMDSS modernization standards, and maritime cybersecurity guidelines. Furthermore, these companies have strong relationships with commercial shipping, coast guard, and naval customers which provides long-term revenue streams. Active involvement of these key companies in the maritime digitalization trend ensures their sustainable expansion during the forecasted period.

Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market Companies

Prominent players operating in the global marine onboard communication and control systems industry are as mentioned below:

• ABB Ltd.
• BAE Systems plc
• Emerson Electric Co.
• Furuno Electric Co., Ltd.
• HENSOLDT AG (Kelvin Hughes brand)
• Honeywell International Inc.
• Icom Inc.
• Intellian Technologies Inc.
• Japan Radio Co., Ltd. (JRC)
• Jotron AS
• Kongsberg Gruppen
• L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
• Leonardo S.p.A.
• Northrop Grumman
• Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG
• Saab AB
• ST Engineering Ltd.
• Thales Group
• Wärtsilä Corporation
• Zenitel NV

• Thales Group

Thales group has established a dominant presence in the marine onboard communication and control systems market with its secure naval communication networks, integrated bridge systems, combat management systems and maritime surveillance systems. Its high level of specialization in mission critical communications and digital Maritime operations reduces risks and allows users to perform at their highest standards.

• Kongsberg Maritime

A leader in vessel automation, integrated bridge systems, dynamic positioning and digital fleet management, Kongsberg maritime is a key provider of smart shipping and autonomous vessel solutions, working to assist vessel operators in increasing navigation safety, operational performance and regulatory compliance.

• BAE Systems

Through its massive resources in defense technology BAE Systems has become a major supplier of state-of-the-art maritime command and control systems, secure communications, electronic warfare and naval mission systems. The company has good connections with naval defense agencies and the trend of maritime security modernization increases the company dominance on the world market.

• L3Harris Technologies

L3HARRIS Technologies is a leader in harsh maritime networking, tactical communications, surveillance and command and control integration. Through secure transmission of data, real-time visibility of operations and interoperable communication platforms, the company enables the Navy and commercial maritime operators to operate seamlessly in difficult maritime conditions.

• Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman specializes in cutting-edge command and control architectures, sensor integration, maritime surveillance systems and networking-centric operational technologies. The company develops solutions for maritime security, fleet modernization, and defense readiness programs that deliver better mission output and secure communication for naval and maritime operations.

Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Industry News

• In February 2026, L3Harris wins largest US Navy submarine communication contract general dynamics electric boat has awarded L3Harris its largest full rate production contract for submarine communication systems, for communication shipsets covering Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines through to 2033, enhancing secure underwater communication for US Navy’s subsurface fleet.
• In June 2025. Thales and Kongsberg have announced the creation of a new joint venture dedicated to providing secure defense communications and tactical networking solutions. Through this partnership, the combined communication expertise of Thales with the tactical communication systems of Kongsberg will meet the increasing requirements of NATO and allied navies for cyber-secure and interoperable communication networks.
• In June 2025, Kongsberg and ThyssenKrupp marine systems broaden naval cooperation signed a co-operation agreement regarding future frigates, maritime surveillance and targeting solutions as well as ship-systems deliveries that will support modernization programs in Norway, Germany and in other countries through improved onboard communications and control solutions.

The marine onboard communication and control systems market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) from 2022 - 2035 for the following segments:

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Market, By System Type

• Communication systems
  • Satellite communication systems
  • Marine radio systems
  • Internal communication systems
  • Onboard network & data infrastructure
  • Safety & distress communication systems
  • Others
• Navigation & positioning systems
  • Electronic chart display & information systems (ECDIS)
  • Marine radar systems
  • Automatic identification systems (AIS)
  • GNSS/GPS receivers
  • Voyage data recorders (VDR/s-VDR)
  • Dynamic positioning systems (DPS)
  • Others
• Integrated bridge & control systems
  • Integrated bridge systems (IBS)
  • Propulsion & engine control systems
  • Power management systems (PMS)
  • Cargo & ballast control systems
  • Integrated platform management systems (IPMS)
  • Others
• Monitoring, alarm & surveillance systems
  • Fire & gas detection systems
  • Hull stress & structural monitoring systems
  • Condition-based monitoring systems
  • Alarm management systems
  • CCTV & onboard security systems
  • Others
• Others

Market, By Vessel Type

• Commercial vessels
  • Cargo & bulk carriers
  • Container ships
  • Tankers
  • Passenger vessels
  • Offshore support vessels
  • Others
• Defense & naval vessels
  • Surface combatants
  • Submarines & underwater vehicles
  • Patrol & coast guard vessels
  • Amphibious & logistic support vessels
  • Others
• Special purpose vessels

Market, By Component

• Hardware
• Software
• Services

Market, By Installation Type

• New build (OEM)
• Retrofit & aftermarket

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea

• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina

• Middle East and Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE