Surface Radars Market - Type, Waveform, Frequency, Dimension, Range, Platform, Application - Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Surface Radars Market Size

The global surface radars market size was valued at USD 17.3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at CAGR of 5.7% to reach USD 29.9 billion by 2034. In terms of volume the market is anticipated to reach 7,515 units. Growing technological advancement in radar technology coupled with increasing defense modernization budget is the major factor responsible for growth in the market.
 

The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, particularly on electronics, semiconductors, and defense-related imports from key manufacturing countries, had a notable impact on the surface radar market. The tariffs increased the price of essential components such as signal processors, RF modules, and advanced circuit boards used in radar systems. This shoots up the production costs and also increased the delay that manufacturers had to face in the procurement cycle. This led to a re-evaluation of sourcing strategies and pushed some companies to localize production or seek alternate suppliers, which temporarily affected project timelines and market competitiveness.
 

Due to growing geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts countries worldwide are increasing their military & defense expenditure with the major aim of modernizing their defense capabilities which is driving the growth in the surface radars market. As an example, global military expenditure is expected to grow by 7.4% and reach USD 2.4 trillion in 2024, up from USD 2.2 trillion in 2023. Surface radars play a pivotal role in coastal and border security, naval operations, and battlefield awareness. Moreover, the need to maintain technological edge against evolving threats from hypersonic weapons to low-observable vessels makes surface radar systems an important tool defense security.
 

Because of increased shipping activities, there has also been an expansion in asymmetric threats at sea and increase in smuggling, and illegal fishing activities which has prompted governments and coast guards worldwide to enhance their maritime surveillance and security capabilities. For instance, according to GMI analysis the global maritime security market was valued at USD 25 billion in 2023 and is growing at a decent CAGR of 6% from 2024-2032. Surface radars are pivotal components of MDA architectures as they perform vessel traffic monitoring, provide timely warning of activity that is suspicious, and aid in search and rescue operations. Recent advances in radar technology and the shift towards multi-functionality has driven the need for powerful radars that operate from offshore platforms and coastal regions.
 

As armed forces shift toward network-centric operations, surface radars are no longer standalone sensors. They feed into broader Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) architectures, enabling real-time data fusion and decision-support. This integration requires interoperable, software-defined radars that can share data seamlessly with satellites, airborne platforms, and ground units. The demand for open-system architectures and common data links is therefore driving upgrades and new procurements.
 

Advances in semiconductor materials, digital beamforming, and multi-channel signal processors have dramatically improved the performance of surface radars. Modern radars now offer higher resolution, longer detection ranges, and more reliable target discrimination, all while reducing size, weight, power consumption, and cost. These breakthroughs enable systems to track small, fast-moving targets in cluttered environments, cope with electronic countermeasures, and operate across multiple frequency bands all of which broaden the range of applications and drive demand.
 

To maintain a competitive edge, manufacturers should invest in R&D to develop compact, software-defined radars with advanced digital beamforming and multi-band capabilities. Also, they should focus on providing scalable radar solutions tailored specific application in order to strengthen their foothold in niche market.
 

Surface Radars Market Trends

• The incorporation of AI and machine learning into radar systems is revolutionizing military operations by decision-making in complex environments. For instance, according to GMI analysis the global AI & analytics in military & defense market was valued at USD 10.4 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 13.4% from 2025 to 2034. Surface radar manufacturers are embedding AI/ML capabilities directly into their signal-processing chains to enable autonomous detection, classification, and tracking of targets amid heavy clutter and jamming. By leveraging deep-learning algorithms, modern radars can adaptively filter out environmental noise, self-calibrate to changing conditions, and even predict target behaviors based on historical patterns. Companies like HENSOLDT have recently incorporated generative-AI methods to bolster automated sensor-data analysis and threat recognition, while major defense primes are partnering with specialized AI startups to co-develop embedded ML modules for real-time electronic counter-countermeasure (ECCM) performance enhancements.
   
• The shift from mechanically steered antennas toward solid-state AESA architectures is accelerating, offering radars instantaneous beam steering, multi-beam operation, and graceful degradation. Digital beamforming further boosts resolution and flexibility by allowing operators to form and shape multiple simultaneous beams for surveillance, fire-control, and communications-on-the-move. These capabilities are driving new procurement programs, with leading suppliers such as Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Thales enhancing their AESA portfolios to support multi-role surface search and surveillance missions.
   
• The shift toward software-defined and cognitive radars built on open architectures represents a significant business transformation in the surface radar market. Traditionally, radar systems were hardware-centric and tightly integrated, making them costly and time-consuming to upgrade or adapt to new mission requirements. In contrast, software-defined radars separate the hardware from the software, allowing users to update system capabilities via software patches rather than overhauling physical components. Open architectures further enhance this flexibility by promoting interoperability across systems and vendors, encouraging a more competitive and collaborative ecosystem. As a result, defense and security agencies are increasingly favoring these next-generation platforms, which support modular enhancements, third-party application integration, and long-term scalability—making them a more attractive investment over the traditional closed-system alternatives.
   

Surface Radars Market Analysis

Based on type, the market is divided into software-defined radars, conventional radars, and quantum radars.
 

• The conventional radars market held the largest share of 59.3% in the year 2024 and is expected to continue its domination till the forecast period. The conventional radar segment continues to grow primarily due to its maturity, reliability, and adaptability across a wide range of applications. These systems are extensively deployed for border surveillance, naval operations, traffic control, and infrastructure security due to their proven performance and operational stability.
   
• The quantum radars segment is growing at the highest rate of 9% and is expected to reach market size of USD 1.9 billion in 2034. This segment is gaining traction as a transformative technology with the potential to redefine surface surveillance capabilities. These radar systems leverage quantum entanglement and quantum illumination principles to detect targets with higher accuracy and resilience against stealth and jamming technologies. Moreover, the increasing need to counter next-generation threats, such as low-observable or stealth platforms that evade detection by traditional radar systems is driving the segment growth forward.

Based on waveform, the surface radars market is segmented into frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) and doppler.
 

• The frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) segment was valued at USD 8.1 billion in 2024. The growth in the segment is due to its ability to operate in environments where size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints are critical. The continuous wave operation allows for lower electromagnetic emissions, reducing the radar’s likelihood of detection and interference, which is especially important for covert or sensitive missions. As demand increases for portable, low-SWaP radar solutions with advanced signal clarity, FMCW radars are becoming a preferred choice for both military and non-military use cases.
   
• The doppler segment is anticipated to reach at a market size of USD 14.6 billion in 2034. Doppler radars are driven by their superior capability to measure target velocity with high accuracy, making them essential for dynamic environments where tracking fast-moving or maneuvering objects is critical. These radars excel in differentiating moving targets from stationary background clutter, which is particularly important for military applications such as air defense, battlefield surveillance, and coastal threat detection. Doppler radars also support weather-resilient operations, offering consistent performance in adverse conditions such as rain, fog, and dust. With the growing demand for high-performance tracking systems that provide real-time updates and predictive threat analysis, Doppler radar technology is being integrated into multi-mission platforms across land and sea which is pushing the segment growth forward.
   

Based on frequency band, the surface radars market is divided into HF/UHF/VHF-band, L-band, S-band, C-band, X-band, KU-band, KA-band and multi-band.
 

• The X-band segment held the largest market share and was valued at USD 4.1 billion in 2024. Surface radars operating in these frequency bands are commonly used in surveillance activities because of the well-balanced consideration of resolution, range, and antenna size. These radars help detect small and fast-moving targets which are useful in maritime navigation, coastal surveillance, and military truck mounted systems. Moreover, the segment is growing due to the increasing need for high-resolution imaging and target discrimination in cluttered or congested environments, such as ports, coastal waters, and urban borders.
   
• The KA-band segment is growing at a decent pace and is expected to reach market size of USD 1.7 billion in 2034. The market in this segment is expanding because of their higher frequency radar sensors’ capability to provide high-resolution imagery and short-range precision tracking. As these radar operate in higher frequency they are able to capture finer details of small objects which makes them useful in high security zones, critical infrastructure protection, and precision-guided defense systems. Both civilian and defense applications are aided by Ka-Band radars because they require quick target location updates with high-data-rate transmissions which support real-time decision making.
   

Based on dimension, the surface radars market is divided into 2D, 3D, and 4D.
 

• The 3D segment was valued at USD 6.7 billion in 2024. The market is expanding because of their ability to provide complete target data which includes range and elevation. This level of multi-dimensional tracking greatly enhances situational awareness in complicated environments, urban terrains, and near coastlines. In addition, this segment is growing due to the increasing demand for accurate target localization and airspace deconfliction where traditional two-dimensional systems do not offer adequate support. The increasing adoption of network-centric defense strategies also supports the integration of 3D radars into broader command-and-control systems, enabling more informed decision-making.
   
• The 4D segment is anticipated to reach market size of USD 4.3 billion in 2034. This segment is the rising because of the increasing demand for enhanced situational awareness in environments where early threat identification and response are critical such as in missile defense, autonomous vehicle navigation, and critical infrastructure protection. The integration of spatial and velocity data aids in minimizing the number of false alarms and allows for predictive tracking, which is essential in counter-stealth and electronic warfare applications. With defense and security providers shifting focus on multi-mission systems, and optimal real-time multi-threat detection capabilities, 4D radars are gaining great interest for their advanced performance and powerful analytics.
   

Based on range, the surface radars market is divided into short, medium, and long.
 

• The medium range segment held the largest market share of 44.6% in 2024. This segment is the increasing due to the growing demand for versatile radar systems that can be rapidly deployed and relocated to support dynamic mission requirements, such as mobile ground units, temporary surveillance posts, and border patrols. These radars are well-suited for tracking low-flying or fast-moving targets across relatively wide zones without the complexity and cost of long-range systems.
   
• The lang range segment is expected to reach market size of USD 9.1 billion in 2034. Long-range surface radars are very useful in respect to strategic early warning and airspace surveillance. One of the major factors driving the growth of the segment is the growing need for long-range surveillance capacity amid evolving aerial threats. These types of radars are highly significant in facilitating deep situational awareness as well as timely detection, so timely response as well as intercept is possible.
   

Based on platform, the surface radars market is divided into critical infrastructure, vehicle-mounted, shipborne, and unmanned surface vehicles.
 

• The vehicle-mounted was valued at USD 4.3 billion in 2024. There is a growing popularity for the application of vehicle mounted radar systems because they can be easily deployable across different terrains due to their mobility. Security agencies and armed forces are increasingly using sophisticated portable and remote autonomous systems for highly hostile combat environments where minimal setup is required. Mobile radars are equipped onto armoured vehicles, tactical trucks, or border patrol units for real-time threat assessment, convoy safeguards, and situational awareness. In addition, these sensor pods versatility is improved with the ability to operate independently as targeting sensors or contributors to a multifaceted imaging network.
   
• The unmanned surface vehicles is growing at the highest CAGR of 7.5% for the forecast period. One of the important factors propelling the market segment forward is the rising demand for continuous and risk-free monitoring hostile geographical environments, such as maritime borders, coastal waters, and restricted zones. USV mounted radars present an incredibly appealing option for Navy, Coast Guards, and maritime security agencies as they provide a scalable solution for long duration missions without endangering personnel. The growing focus on unmanned and remotely operated systems in the defense sector is also fueling innovation in lightweight, low-power radar modules designed exclusively for USVs.
   

Based on application, the surface radars market is divided into surveillance, air defense, perimeter security, battlefield ISR, and others.
 

• The surveillance segment is anticipated to reach market size of USD 10.1 billion in 2034. The surveillance segment is primarily driven by the growing need for persistent situational awareness in both civilian and military settings. The detection and monitoring of illegal activities, terrorism, smuggling, and unauthorized border crossings are major concerns that prompt governments and security firms to install surface radar systems to monitor coastal areas, borders, urban peripheries, infrastructure, and metropolitan areas for surveillance purpose. These systems are able to monitor in real-time regardless of weather conditions or time of day which directly supports the protection of National Security and Public Safety. There is also demand for more advanced radars that can control and safeguard areas experiencing heavy maritime traffic over prolonged periods of time as global maritime activity and Urbanization increase.
   
• The battlefield ISR  was valued at USD 3.2 billion in 2024. The Battlefield ISR segment is driven by the rising significance of multi-domain, real-time situational awareness in current combat operations. Battlefield ISR applications of surface radars are imperative to detect, track, and classify both hostile and static targets ground platforms, artillery, and low-altitude air threats.The need to operate within contested and rapidly changing environments under which the opponent can utilize stealth or electronic countermeasures is driving the next-generation radar revolution with advanced capability like target speed measurement, high-resolution imagery, and drone as well as satellite data feed incorporation.

• The U.S. surface radars market dominated in the North America region and is expected to reach market size of USD 7.9 billion in 2034. Investment in the modernization of defense systems and strengthening of domestic security continue to fuel the market for surface radars in the country. These sectors, along with the transition of the U.S. military to multi-domain operations, are accelerating the need for interface radars with C4ISR systems pertaining to multi-force situational understanding. The domestic demand for mobile, computer network aware radar systems is also driven by the development of coastal surveillance systems, border control monitoring stations, and base perimeter defense systems.
   
• The Germany surface radars market was valued at USD 712.2 million in 2024. In Germany, the growth of surface radars is being propelled by the country’s increasing commitment to NATO defense obligations and regional security within Europe. With renewed emphasis on protecting critical infrastructure, military bases, and borders, Germany is investing in radar systems that support multi-role surveillance and integration with allied defense systems. Also, the country’s strong industrial base in electronics and defense manufacturing supports local development and rapid customization of radar technologies to meet both domestic and export demands.
   
• The China surface radars market is growing at the highest CAGR of 7.7% for the forecast period in Asia-Pacific region. China’s market is expanding rapidly due to the country’s extensive military modernization and emphasis on securing its maritime and land borders amid rising geopolitical tensions. The country is heavily investing in indigenous technology development, including radar systems capable of detecting stealth aircraft and hypersonic threats. The integration of AI and quantum technologies into radar platforms reflects the country's ambition to leapfrog conventional capabilities and establish technological dominance in regional and global defense arenas.
   
• The India surface radars market is growing at a significant rate and is expected to reach a market size of USD 1.7 billion in 2034. In India, the demand for surface radars is driven by a growing need to enhance defense preparedness and reduce dependency on foreign systems. India’s increasing defense budget, combined with its efforts to modernize surveillance infrastructure and improve real-time threat detection capabilities, is generating sustained demand for flexible, all-weather radar systems across both military and paramilitary operations.
   
• The Japan surface radars market is growing at decent pace and was valued at USD 1.1 billion in 2024. Japan’s surface radar market is primarily driven by its strategic need to bolster maritime and homeland defense capabilities in response to regional security threats. The country is focusing on advanced radar technologies that can detect stealth and hypersonic threats as part of its broader missile defense strategy. Furthermore, the integration of radar systems into layered defense networks and real-time data fusion platforms is aligned with Japan’s vision of a modern, interoperable self-defense force that can operate effectively with allied systems in joint missions.
   

Surface Radars Market Share

The surface radars industry is highly competitive, with key players trying to secure long-term contracts military & defense contract by offering cost effective surface radar solutions. Lockheed Martin Corporation, Raytheon Technologies, Bae Systems, Northrop Grumman, and Leonardo S.P.A. are the top 5 companies accounting for 70%-75% of the market share. The Key players are differentiating on the basis of offering, price and technological capabilities. Moreover, companies are forging collaborative partnerships across the defense ecosystem. For instance, in 2025 Lockheed Martin announced that it has been awarded a cumulative total of USD 472 million for the acquisition of 19 TPY-4 ground-based radars by the U.S. Air Forces. It was also revealed that these systems are being procured under the Three-Dimensional Expeditionary Long-Range Radar (3DELRR) program, which is managed by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts.
 

Similarly, RTX announced its deal with the U.S. Navy to provide air-defense missile with radar seeker for surface warships in 2025. The total value of the deal was USD 333.3 million. Under this deal RTX will provide active radar seeker to the U.S. Navy.
 

Surface Radars Market Companies

Some of the eminent market participants operating in the surface radars industry include:

• Lockheed Martin Corporation
• Raytheon Technologies
• Bae Systems
• Northrop Grumman
• Leonardo S.P.A.
   

Surface Radars Industry News

• In June 2024, In 2024, Raytheon, an RTX business, was awarded a $677 million contract to continue to produce AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the U.S. Navy. This is the third option exercised from the March 2022 hardware, production and sustainment contract that is valued up to USD 3 billion over five years. Under this contract, the U.S. Navy will receive seven additional radars, increasing the total amount of radars under contract for procurement to 38.
   
• In 2024, Israel Aerospace Industries, a key player in aerospace and defense, opened HELA, its latest cutting-edge facility in Hyderabad. This strategic hub marked an additional significant milestone in IAI’s commitment to reinforce India’s defense infrastructure under its Make in India initiative. The new subsidiary further demonstrates IAI’s dedication to fostering local capabilities and advancing self-reliance within the critical domain of radar technologies.
   

The surface radars market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in (USD million) & volume in (Units) from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Software-defined radars
  • Multiple-input and multiple-output
  • Phased array radars
    • Active electronically scanned arrays
    • Passive electronically scanned arrays
• Conventional radars
• Quantum radars

Market, By Waveform

• Frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW)
• Doppler
  • Conventional doppler radars
  • Pulse doppler radars

Market, By Frequency

• HF/UHF/VHF-Band
• L-Band
• S-Band
• C-Band
• X-Band
• KU-Band
• KA-Band
• Multi-Band

Market, By Dimension

• 2D
• 3D
• 4D

Market, By Range

• Short
• Medium
• Long

Market, By Platform

• Critical infrastructure
  • Airports
  • Seaports
  • Military bases & command centres
  • Others
• Vehicle-mounted
  • Military
  • Commercial
• Shipborne
  • Military
  • Commercial
• Unmanned surface vehicles
  • Military
  • Commercial

Market, By Application

• Surveillance
• Air defense
• Perimeter security
• Battlefield ISR
• Others

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

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Japan
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • South Africa