UAV Satellite Communication Market Analysis

UAV Type (Fixed-wing, Rotary-wing, Hybrid)

Fixed-wing segment is expected to account for UAV satellite communication market share of more than 58.6% by the end of 2037, with their long-range competencies of high endurance, border surveillance, dominant military, and environmental monitoring. High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) fixed-wing UAVs including, General Atomics MQ-9B SkyGuardian have further increased their usage in the defense and commercial sectors.

Rotary wing UAVs acknowledged for their vertical takeoff flying ability, and maneuverability in tight spaces are extensively used in urban infrastructure inspection, disaster management, and medical supply delivery. Hybrid UAVs providing the flexibility of vertical takeoff with an extended range of fixed-wing designs are gaining traction, mainly in agriculture and offshore operations. Advances such as Northrop Grumman Firebird UAV, which functions in both modes are growing market demand by providing versatile, cost-effective solutions for several industries.

Application (Military & Defense, Civil & Commercial, Government, Others)

In UAV satellite communication market, military & defense segment is projected to capture revenue share of over 49% by 2037, owing to rising demand for surveillance and security in the military and defense sector and integration of SATCOM in UAVs for border surveillance, reconnaissance, and communications. In April 2024, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. announced the successful demonstration of a fully visualized SATCOM ground system using its OpenSpace for the U.S. Army’s Program Executive Office Command, Control, Communications-Tactical.

Our in-depth analysis of the UAV satellite communication market includes the following segments: