Software Defined Radio Market Summary

The global software-defined radio (SDR) market size was estimated at USD 29,491.4 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 47,753.9 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.4% from 2025 to 2030. This significant growth is driven by the increasing demand for flexible, multi-frequency, and interoperable communication systems across defense, public safety, and telecommunications sectors. SDR technology enables seamless operation across diverse frequencies and communication standards, making it ideal for adapting to evolving communication needs in mission-critical environments.

The adaptability of SDRs is particularly valuable in modern communication networks that demand high-speed, secure, and reliable data exchange. The advancement of wireless technologies—including 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), and satellite communications—is a major catalyst fueling the adoption of SDRs. Unlike traditional radios, SDRs are software-configurable, allowing users to switch between protocols and frequencies without changing the hardware, resulting in reduced costs and improved operational efficiency. The rising emphasis on achieving cross-platform interoperability further enhances their appeal across multiple domains.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• Based on type, the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) segment dominated the market with a revenue share of 33.12% in 2024. This is attributed to JTRS's integral role in military communication, offering secure, interoperable voice and data transmission. It supports real-time information sharing among allied forces, thereby enhancing operational coordination and tactical responsiveness on the battlefield.
• In terms of components, the hardware segment led the market, contributing 41.16% of total revenue in 2024. Hardware elements like transceivers, power amplifiers, and antennas form the backbone of SDR systems, enabling robust signal transmission, signal processing, and adaptability across different platforms. Continued innovation in hardware design is critical to enhancing SDR performance in demanding environments.
• Based on frequency band, the high-frequency (HF) segment held the largest revenue share of 30.90% in 2024. HF bands are vital for long-range communication, particularly in sectors such as defense, aviation, and maritime. SDR systems operating on HF frequencies provide strategic communication capabilities even in remote or infrastructure-limited areas, which is crucial for military and emergency applications.
• With respect to platform, the ground segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 28.05% in 2024. Ground-based SDR systems are widely used in base stations, military installations, and public safety networks. These systems offer scalability and adaptability, making them well-suited for fixed-location deployments that require secure, high-capacity communication infrastructures.
• By end use, the aerospace and defense segment led the market with a 23.90% revenue share in 2024. The defense sector’s increasing reliance on secure and adaptive communication systems that can operate across different frequencies and protocols is driving sustained investment in SDR technologies. These systems provide advanced capabilities in areas such as command and control, intelligence gathering, and battlefield communication.
• Geographically, North America dominated the SDR market, accounting for the largest revenue share of 33.52% in 2024. The region’s leadership is supported by major investments in defense modernization and public safety infrastructure. Government agencies in the U.S. and Canada are prioritizing resilient and agile communication solutions, further encouraging technological innovation and development of cognitive radio features.
• The U.S. SDR market held a dominant position in 2024, largely due to the military’s growing demand for advanced communication solutions that facilitate cross-platform operability. High defense spending and robust R&D investments are key growth enablers in the region.
• In Europe, the SDR market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is driven by increasingly stringent regulations surrounding spectrum allocation and secure communication, which are pushing governments and industries to adopt more adaptable and software-driven communication infrastructures.
• The Asia Pacific region is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 9.7% during the forecast period. Countries such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea are investing heavily in upgrading their defense communication infrastructure and rolling out 5G networks. SDR systems provide the flexibility to operate over wide geographic regions and changing communication protocols, making them highly valuable in such dynamic settings.

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Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 29,491.4 Million
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 47,753.9 Million
• CAGR (2025-2030): 8.4%
• North America: Largest market in 2024

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Key players contributing to the global SDR market include RTX Corporation and Northrop Grumman Corporation, among others.

• RTX Corporation, created through the merger of Raytheon Company and United Technologies Corporation, focuses on delivering advanced aerospace and defense technologies. Its subsidiary, Collins Aerospace, is known for developing high-performance SDR systems that enable secure, multi-platform communication for both military and commercial applications.
• Northrop Grumman Corporation is a leading defense technology firm with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. Its SDR offerings are integral to modern warfare communications, supporting complex operational environments through advanced signal processing and adaptive networking capabilities across its multiple business divisions, including space, cyber, and mission systems.

Emerging players such as BAE Systems plc and Leonardo S.p.A. are also making strategic advancements in the SDR space.

• BAE Systems plc is a globally recognized provider of defense and security solutions, offering robust SDR systems like the RAD5545, which is a radiation-hardened software radio tailored for secure, high-performance communication in space and military environments. The company’s ongoing R&D efforts are aimed at improving SDR efficiency and durability in extreme conditions.
• Leonardo S.p.A., an Italian multinational aerospace and defense firm, contributes to the SDR market with its advanced communications solutions. Leveraging its expertise in electronic warfare, avionics, and secure communication, Leonardo designs SDR platforms that offer interoperability and resilience for defense and civil sectors alike. Its focus on dynamic, real-time information sharing positions it as a key player in the evolving SDR ecosystem.

Key Players

• L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
• RTX Corporation
• Thales Group
• General Dynamics Corporation
• Northrop Grumman Corporation
• BAE Systems Plc
• Elbit Systems Ltd.
• Leonardo S.p.A.
• Collins Aerospace
• Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the global software-defined radio market is experiencing strong growth due to increasing demand for flexible, secure, and interoperable communication systems across various sectors. SDR’s ability to adapt to evolving standards and frequencies through software makes it an essential technology for defense, aerospace, public safety, and telecommunications. Continued investments in defense modernization, 5G deployment, and spectrum regulation are propelling global adoption. As leading companies innovate through strategic partnerships and advanced R&D, the SDR market is set to expand rapidly. The ongoing shift toward software-based communication infrastructure will be central to meeting the dynamic needs of future global connectivity.