X-Band Radar Market Size - By Platform, By Array, By Type, and By Application, - Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

X-Band Radar Market Size

The global X-band radar market was valued at USD 6.4 billion in 2024, with a volume of 6,023 thousand units and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% to reach USD 9.6 billion by 2034. The growth of the market is attributed to factors such as the increasing defense budgets worldwide coupled with the rising demand for unmanned systems.
 

The primary reason for the X-band radar market’s growth is the increasing defense budget worldwide, particularly due to its critical role in modern military applications. For instance, the global defense spending has surpassed USD 2.4 trillion in 2024, which represents a growth from USD 2.2 trillion in the year 2023, as stated by IISS. Many nations such as U.S., China, India, and NATO members are heavily investing in upgradation of their defense system, which requires replacement of legacy radars with advanced X-band phased array, AESA (Active electronically scanned array) and multi-function radars.  X-band radars offer higher resolution and precision tracking, which further makes them highly ideal for missile defense systems, counter drone and counter artillery detection, and naval warfare. Additionally, modern military are deploying drones (UAVs), unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), and autonomous ships, all of which rely on compact X-band radars for real time battlefield surveillance, target acquisition, and swarm drone tracking.
 

The growth of the X-band radar industry is being driven by a growing demand for drone (UAV), unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), autonomous vessels (USV) and counter drone systems. X-band radars are becoming more preferred for unmanned applications, since they have a higher resolution, smaller size, and precise tracking capabilities. Moreover, autonomous ships and unmanned patrol boats are also being deployed for maritime security, mine countermeasures, and anti submarine warfare. In these situations, X-band radar is essential for mine detection, harbour security, anti-piracy efforts, illegal fishing monitoring, and swarm boat operations. Additionally, there is strong demand for X-band radar technology due to the rapid growth of autonomous naval systems, robotic vehicles, and drones. High-precision, lightweight, multi-role X-band radars will become increasingly important as industries and militaries boost their investments in AI-driven unmanned platforms.
 

X-Band Radar Market Trends

• Solid state X-band radars are replacing traditional magnetron based systems with Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Gallium Arsenide (GaAs), which is a significant trend in the X-band radar industry. These radars offer superior efficiency, reliability, and longer lifespans. SSRs enables precise beamforming, lower power consumption, and enhanced resistance to jamming, which makes them ideal for various applications such as military, maritime, and aviation.
   
• In order to integrate small drones, unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), and urban air mobility (UAM) systems, manufacturers are placing more emphasis on developing miniaturized X-band radars that maintain high performance. These small radars can provide real time terrain mapping, obstacle avoidance, and target tracking due to the advancement in lightweight phased arrays and MMIC (monolithic microwave integrated circuits) technology.  
   
• Another significant trend in the market is the increasing integration of X-band radars with 5G networks and IoT sensors to ensure enhanced smart city traffic management, perimeter security, and crowd monitoring. These radar ensures operation in cluttered urban environment, which makes them ideal for detecting vehicles, pedestrians, and unauthorized drones.
   

X-Band Radar Market Analysis

Based on the platform, the market is segmented into ground based X-band radar, naval based X-band radar, and airborne X-band radar.
 

• The ground based X-band radar was the largest market and was valued at USD 2.6 billion in 2024. Ground based X-band radar systems are increasingly used for military surveillance, target tracking, and missile defense systems. Several countries are investing in ground based radar systems for security and surveillance applications. These systems offer real time monitoring capabilities to detect unauthorized crossings and enhanced national security. In addition, X-band radar is gaining rapid adoption in metrology for weather forecasting and monitoring applications, as these systems offers high resolution data for tracking storms, rainfalls, and other weathers, which are crucial for disaster management.
   
• The airborne X-band radar was the fastest growing market and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period. The growth in this segment is driven by the increasing usage of these systems in military aircrafts for surveillance and offering capabilities for reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition. Also, airborne X-band radar is increasingly being deployed in maritime surveillance and environmental monitoring for various applications such as conduct rescue & research operations, tracking deforestation, and accessing natural disaster. Moreover, the advancement in radar technology such as miniaturization and improved signal processing enhances the performance of airborne radar systems, which makes them more versatile for various applications including civilian and commercial uses.
   

Based on the array, the X-band radar market is categorized into active electronically scanned array (AESA), and passive electronically scanned array (PESA).
 

• The active electronically scanned array (AESA) was the largest market and was valued at USD 3.5 billion in 2024. AESA radar provides superior performance due to their ability to transmit and receive multiple beams simultaneously, which makes them highly preferred in military applications. Also, these systems can perform multiple functions such as surveillance, tracking, and discrimination, which fuels their adoption in advanced fighter jets, naval vessels, and ground based defense systems. Furthermore, the government is investing heavily in military upgradation, which is driving the shift from PESA to AESA systems. This trend is particularly prominent in countries like U.S., where programs are developed to enhance air superiority and missile defense systems. 
   
• The passive electronically scanned array (PESA) is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 3.4% during the forecast period. PESA systems are often less expensive than AESA systems, which encourages their adoption in countries with budget constraints. These systems have a simpler design and are often perceived as more reliable options due to fewer components and reliability, which further makes them beneficial for long term deployment in various ground based and naval applications. Additionally, PESA systems have been in use for several decades and several existing platforms are equipped with these systems, that further leads to continued demand for upgrades and replacement as a part of modernization efforts.
   

Based on the type, the X-band radar market is bifurcated into continuous wave (CW) X-band radar, and pulsed X-band radar.
 

• The pulsed X-band radar was the largest market and was valued at USD 3.8 billion in 2024. These systems are widely used to achieve longer detection ranges and higher resolutions compared to other systems, which makes them ideal for applications such as air traffic control, weather monitoring, and military surveillance. Moreover, these radars are gaining rapid adoption across various sectors such as defense, meteorology, and maritime navigations, which further drives demand for these systems across multiple industries.
   
• The continuous wave (CW) X-band radar was the fastest growing market and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period. These systems are often less expensive to manufacture and maintain, which makes them ideal for civilian and military sector, particularly in budget sensitive environments. Additionally, CW radar provides real time measurement of target speed and distance, which includes applications such as traffic monitoring and law enforcement. CW radar can be integrated with other technologies such as infrared and optical systems, which makes them ideal for advanced surveillance and monitoring systems.
   

Based on the application, the X-band radar market is divided into defense & surveillance, weather monitoring & meteorology, marine navigation, border & costal surveillance, satellite communication & remote sensing and others.
 

• The defense & surveillance was the largest market and was valued at USD 2.2 billion in 2024. Several countries are increasing their defense budget to enhance military capabilities, which includes investments in advanced radar systems for surveillance, reconnaissance, and threat detection, which fuels the demand for X-band radar systems in defense applications. X-band radars are increasingly integrated with other defense systems such as missile defense and unmanned ariel vehicles (UAVs), that ensures enhanced operational effectiveness which further supports growth of this segment.
   
• The marine navigation was the fastest growing market and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period. The rapid expansion of global maritime trade and shipping activities is pushing the demand for x-band radars, due to their ability to offers safe navigations, collision avoidance, and traffic management in busy shipping lines. Moreover, the increasing emphasis towards enhancing security measures in costal areas and ports, which further fuels their adoption to monitor vessel movements, detecting illegal activities, and ensuring maritime security.
   

• The U.S. dominated the X-band radar market, accounting for USD 2 billion in the year 2024. The growth in the region is propelled by the increasing emphasis towards defense modernization along with implementation of programs such as NGI (Next-Gen Interceptor) and F-35 upgrades, which fuels the demand for X-band radars. For instance, the defense spending by the U.S. was valued at USD 997 billion in 2024, which was equivalent to nearly 40% of military expenditure around the world in 2024, as stated by PGPF.  Moreover, the continuous innovation in radar technology including signal processing and miniaturization, enhances functionality and performance. In addition, the growing application of X band radar in weather monitoring, air traffic control, and automotive industries is further driving market growth. The advancement in radar technology such as improved resolutions, range, and signal processing capabilities, which further supports the market expansion.
   

• The Germany X-band radar market accounted for USD 360.3 million in the year 2024. The position of Germany within NATO and the commitment of the country towards defense modernization is fuelling the demand for advanced radar systems. Also, the increasing investment towards military technology to enhance capabilities for air defense and border security, where X band radars are witnessing rapid traction. Furthermore, the manufacturing sector of Germany is widely known for its precision and efficiency, which further encourages the incorporation of X-band radars in industrial automation for applications such as object detection and process monitoring.  
   
• The X-band radar market in China is projected to reach USD 1.3 billion by the year 2034. The aggressive push of China towards the military modernization efforts has significantly accelerated the demand for advanced radar systems. The government is encouraging the domestic production of indigenous technologies, that further leads to increased investment in X-band radars for surveillance and reconnaissance purposes. Additionally, the rapid urbanization in China has led to increasing deployment of X-band radars in extensive infrastructure projects for traffic management, construction monitoring, and public safety to cater the challenges posed by urban growth and ensuring consistent transportation systems.
   
• The Japan X-band radar market was valued at USD 286.7 million in 2024. The nation is positioned as a leader in electronics and engineering, which has led to development of X-band radars for maritime applications to ensure navigation and collision avoidance. Also, Japan is vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons, which encourages the usage of radar systems for early warning and monitoring. X-band radars are widely used for weather forecasting and disaster response to ensure enhanced public safety.  
   
• The India X-band radar market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 6.9% during the forecast period. The rapid expansion of aerospace industry in India has led to surge in deployment for X-band radars in air traffic management and safety to ensure efficient and safe airspace operations. Furthermore, the push from government towards the development of smart city projects promotes the adoption of modern technologies such as X-band radars to ensure enhanced traffic management and urban planning. Moreover, the growing emphasis of the country towards defense modernization is further fuelling the demand for X-band radars for surveillance, border security, and missiles defense, that reflects its strategic defense objectives.  
   
• The UAE X-band radar market was valued at USD 184.7 million in 2024. The UAE is at the forefront of smart city initiatives, especially in cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which is fuelling the deployment of X-band radars for traffic management, urban planning, and environmental monitoring. Furthermore, the rapid expansion of aviation sector is also fuelling the demand for advanced radar technologies in air traffic control and safety systems.
   
• The Saudi Arabia X-band radar market is projected to surpass USD 229.2 million by 2034. The Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan is emphasizing on modernization and diversification of economy, which is driving the demand for X-band radar for surveillance and reconnaissance. Moreover, the oil & gas industry in Saudi Arabia is further pushing the usage of X-band radars for pipeline monitoring, detecting leaks, and managing operational efficiency.
   
• The South Africa X-band radar market is projected to grow with a CAGR of 1.3% during the forecast period. The mining sector in South Africa is witnessing rapid deployment of radar technologies for monitor and managing operations. X-band radars are widely used for terrain mapping, resource detection, and ensuring safety in mining activities, which further contributes to operational efficiency. Moreover, the country is investing in modernizing its defense capabilities, which includes upgradation of its radar systems for both military and civilian applications.
   

X-Band Radar Market Share

The X-band radar industry is highly competitive and fragmented with the presence of established global players as well as local players and startups. The top 3 market leader in the global X-band radar market are Northrop Grumman Corporation, RTX Corporation, and Thales, collectively accounting for 34.2% market share. Major key players of the market are investing in advanced signal processing, AI powered threat detection, and dual use (military & civilian) radar systems to cater the surge in demand for high precision surveillance and weather monitoring. Several brands are further heavily investing towards the deployment of solid state and phased array X-band radars for enhanced tracking accuracy & reduced maintenance, along with the increasing incorporation of AI and machine learning for automated target recognition (ATR) and clutter suppression in naval, airborne, and ground based applications.
 

Additionally, the increasing geopolitical tension and military modernization programs, particularly in Asia Pacific and MEA regions is propelling the adoption of X-band radars in civilian sectors such as autonomous vehicle navigation, weather forecasting, and enhanced airport security. Furthermore, the rapid proliferation of UAVs, hypersonic missiles, and smart city programs is further fuelling the demand for high resolution, multi functional X-band radars systems.
 

X-Band Radar Market Company

The X-band radar industry features several prominent players, including:

• Bharat Electronics Limited
• Furuno Electric Company Ltd.
• Hanwha Systems
• Hensoldt AG
• Indira Sistemas, S.A
• Israel Aerospace Industries
• Japan Radio Company Limited
• Kelvin Hughes Limited
• Leonardo S.p.A.
• Northrop Grumman Corporation
• Reutech Radar Systems (PTY) Ltd.
• RTX Corporation
• Saab AB
• Terma A/S
• Thales
• Vaisala Oyj
   

Thales is a leader in X-band radar with its cutting-edge technology and end-to-end solutions for defense, aerospace, and transport industries. Its USP is its innovative radar systems based on cutting-edge signal processing and integration of AI for improved target detection and tracking. Thales emphasizes strategic investments and partnerships to create future-generation radar solutions that are scalable and flexible, targeting to fulfill changing customer requirements and, as a result, acquire market leadership in a niche market.
 

Northrop Grumman is a well-respected player in the X-band radar space. The company's rugged, reliable radar is more suited to military and military-similar applications. The company's key differentiator is its performance, reliability, and experience in providing technologically based solutions to defence, reducing to simple contracted items for outstanding multinational operational performance. Northrop Grumman invests in new and emerging technologies such as AI and automation, to increase radar interoperability and use advanced radar technologies.
 

X-Band Radar Industry News

• In April 2024, Wärtsilä ANCS, a division of the technology group Wärtsilä, has introduced their NACOS Platinum Solid State X-Band Radar, a brand-new radar system designed to improve dependability and safety in maritime navigation. Traditional magnetrons are no longer necessary due to the system's compact housing and gearbox, which are designed with the newest solid-state transceiver technology.
   
• In April 2024, Metasting has launched its stars-X. Stars-X spaceborn payload is considered to have highest capacity radar technology available in the X-band. As a fully phased array from antenna with electronic scanning capabilities, in terms of both height and Azimuth, the stars provide the highest capacity and flexibility in the operation.
   

The X-band radars market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Million) and volume (Thousand Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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By Platform

• Ground-based X-band radar
• Naval-based X-band radar
• Airborne X-band radar

By Array

• Active electronically scanned array (AESA)
• Passive electronically scanned array (PESA)

By Type

• Continuous wave (CW) X-band radar
• Pulsed X-band radar

By Application

• Defense & surveillance
  • Airborne early warning (AEW)
  • Fire control radar
  • Target tracking & identification
• Weather monitoring & meteorology
• Marine navigation
• Border & coastal surveillance
• Satellite communication & remote sensing
• 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
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE