Aircraft, Electronic Equipment Modernization Drives Airborne ISR Market

February 27, 2006

Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems have traditionally been built as a custom package with little concern for interoperability or information sharing. With the advent of network-centric operations, however, the military is increasingly adopting Commercial Off the Shelf (COTS) hardware and software to promote interoperability and standardization. As airborne ISR platforms modernize, analysts predict COTS producers should find growth in this previously closed market

"Airborne ISR, especially unmanned aerial systems are undergoing radical changes and modernization," said Frost & Sullivan research analyst Darren Corbiere. "The integration of highly sensitive sensors, exceptional UAS performance and high-speed data links are combining to provide unprecedented surveillance and reconnaissance."

Obtaining and disseminating information has always been a task well-suited for airborne ISR platforms. With advanced technology integrating into Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and ISR systems, collateral damage and fratricide have been reduced significantly in Afghanistan and Iraq, according to the analyst firm. Recognizing the military’s success, the U.S. Border Patrol is now successfully using UAVs with ISR capabilities.

According to Frost & Sullivan, dynamic network integration is pivotal to ISR success. Information management software and hardware must permit the integration of autonomous nodes as they come in range. Network management must dynamically integrate into higher order management structures. Information assurance must provide end-to-end encryption, key management infrastructure, public key infrastructure and integrated attack sensing, warning and response. Answering these concerns is a significant challenge in the airborne ISR arena, analysts said.

"The military is on the brink of a network revolution. Because airborne ISR platforms are key elements of network centric operations, there is a very high demand for security and interoperability," said Corbiere. "Those who can bring a fully integrated network management solution to market will be able to establish themselves as serious contenders."

Frost & Sullivan finds the North American Airborne ISR Market earned revenues of $6081.9M in 2005, with estimates to reach $7174.6M by 2011.

Source: Frost & Sullivan.