Air-based Tactical Data Link Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034

The global air-based tactical data link market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.30% between 2025 and 2034. The market is being aided by the growing investments in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance technologies by militaries around the world.

Key Trends in the Market

Tactical data link is a technology used for providing secure wireless communication in the military for the exchange of tactical data on field and command centres. Air-based tactical data link refers to the communication system used in military aviation for the exchange of data between aircraft and ships, ground stations, and command centres.

• The growing geopolitical tension and conflicts around the world are likely to be the prime factors aiding the global air-based tactical data link market growth. Owing to these situations, military organisations are increasingly investing in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance technologies as communication between groups is essential to make proper decisions.
• Unmanned aerial vehicles require a datalink for communication with a ground control system. Datalink also enables the operator to remotely control the UAV and carry out various tasks and exchanges of data. The increasing adoption of unmanned aerial systems is expected to propel the global air-based tactical data link market demand in the forecast period. The effectiveness, safety, and success of UAV missions are heavily dependent on the reliability and capabilities of the data link systems used, which prompts organisations to increase investment in data link development.
• The rising adoption of advanced networking technologies such as Link 16, Link 22, and MADL is one of the key global air-based tactical data link market trends. For example, a multi-function advanced data link (MADL) provides a high data rate with a multi-directional communication link. This data link technology allows coordinated tactics and engagements and provides the fifth-generation stealth aircraft with operational advantages, even in challenging environments.

Market Segmentation

The EMR’s report titled “Air-based Tactical Data Link Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Component

• Hardware
• Software

Market Breakup by Platform

• Rotary Wing
• Fixed Wing
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

Market Breakup by Application

• Command and Control (C2)
• Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR)
• Electronic Warfare (EW)
• Radio Communication

Market Breakup by Sales Channel

• OEM
• Aftermarket

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Market Share by Component

According to the global air-based tactical data link market analysis, the demand for software is expected to increase in the coming years owing to its capability of interoperability and support for different communication protocols, including link 11, link 16, and link 22, among others. Interoperability has become a key factor responsible for the development of the market as military forces from different nations are increasingly engaging in joint operations and exercises.

Market Share by Region

North America is likely to account for a significant portion of the global air-based tactical data link market share during the forecast period. The development of the regional market can be attributed to the increasing investment in military technology development, especially in the United States of America. In addition, the rising modernisation initiatives and the expansion of the military in Canada and the United States are further propelling the demand for tactical data links as it is crucial for real-time data exchange between different groups.

Competitive Landscape

The comprehensive EMR report provides an in-depth assessment of the market based on Porter's five forces model along with giving a SWOT analysis. The report gives a detailed analysis of the following key players in the global air-based tactical data link market, covering their competitive landscape and the latest developments like mergers, acquisitions, investments, and expansion plans.

BAE Systems plc

BAE Systems plc is a British defence and aerospace company established in 1999. The company specialises in creating systems and products for different fields, including naval ships, submarines, armoured vehicles, military aircraft, electronic systems, and cybersecurity solutions. BAE Systems places a significant emphasis on research and development to stay at the forefront of technology and innovation in the defence and aerospace sectors.

L3Harris Technologies, Inc.

L3Harris Technologies, Inc. is a prominent American multinational corporation renowned for its expertise in delivering cutting-edge technology and communication systems. The company primarily operates in the defence, government, and commercial sectors. The company came into existence after the merger of L3 Technologies and Harris Corporation in June 2019.

Terma A/S

Terma A/S is a Danish aerospace and defence company that specialises in developing and manufacturing high-technology products and systems for various applications, primarily within the defence and aerospace sectors. The company manufactures technology in various categories including avionics, radar systems, command and control, and manufacturing services.

Other global air-based tactical data link market players include RTX Corporation, General Dynamics Corporation, Leonardo S.p.A., Curtiss-Wright Corporation, Thales Group, Elbit Systems Ltd., and Metrea LLC, among others.