It is no surprise that, in the current geopolitical climate, militaries are reevaluating tactical and electronic warfare.
Consequently, there is an emerging need to develop next-generation jammers and receivers, which will lead to increased demand for the various hardware and software electronic components utilized in these instruments. The components that militaries decide to select will come down to how well companies are able to meet the need for optimized size, weight and power of electronic warfare equipment.
Growing trends and advanced needs
Recent advancements in defense technology have driven an increased demand for military electronic components. In fact, there’s been a notable uptick in the electronic warfare market over the last decade. And, estimates show that, by 2030, the global market will grow from about $9 billion to roughly $28 billion in annual expenditures. These figures represent a nearly 50% rise in spending, and this does not include the coinciding investments in R&D.
The primary driving forces behind this increased demand are tools like jammers and receivers. An electronic jammer is a device used to disrupt communication—often those utilizing cell phones and/or radio frequencies. Jammers work by deliberately transmitting signals on the same frequency as cell towers, therefore blocking the signals from getting through. These next-generation instruments have been used in a variety of combat situations and serve a critical role in disrupting enemy signals to prevent the detonation of improvised explosive devices. Due to the complexity of the hardware and software that make up these jammers and receivers, it is essential to update the platform electronics required for manufacturing.
Global electronics supply chain impacts
In order for militaries to update receiver and jammer technologies, as well as other electronic warfare equipment, it will be necessary to prioritize specialized equipment. This is due to the fact that the most effective advanced military instruments are those that prioritize size, weight and power (SWaP). We’ve also seen a push toward miniaturization—helping militaries create more field-manageable tools. Miniaturization leans heavily on printed electronics technology, utilizing 3-D printing to streamline the production of various electronics components. This allows electronic warfare manufacturers to maintain flexibility while continuing to emphasize SWaP. As an emerging technology, printed electronics enables the printing of various devices and parts via a wide range of substrates. With increasing demand for jammers and receivers, along with anti-jamming technologies, printed technology offers flexibility around procurement. And since miniaturization is leading the charge for alternative parts, this added workability is critical.
Sourcing military electronic components
When it comes to strategizing how to source the components used in next-generation electronic warfare, there is no better approach than to team up with a sourcing partner who can help you plan for, and navigate through a complex market. As we noted in recent articles, the right sourcing partner can connect you with global distribution networks to ensure both the quality of your products and your organization’s procurement flexibility.
Working with independent distributors allows organizations to access high-quality and dynamic networks, providing them the capacity to build internal infrastructures around logistics as well as provide them with real-time market insight. As both developed and developing countries drive higher procurement rates surrounding electronic warfare, the need for global sourcing partners who understand how to locate hard-to-find parts, not to mention new and aging systems, will become increasingly important.
No matter the industry, effective global sourcing comes down to working with a partner who values your organization’s total cost of ownership. And as the electronic components found in these new-generation jammers and receivers become increasingly obsolete due to advancements in the field, it will become necessary to work with a team that can help guide you through changes in the market. An independent distributor should employ rigorous testing and component qualification standards, and utilize advanced counterfeit-detection technology to ensure the integrity of every military electronic component they source.
As we stand on the precipice of new investments in electronic warfare, it is essential to think through your sourcing strategy. Due to the complexity surrounding the market, now is the time to build a relationship with a proven sourcing partner who can help navigate the hardware and software electronic components used in these advanced instruments.
Read more:
4 tips for sourcing hard-to-find parts in the current global shortage market
How will the semiconductor industry influence the military’s 5G rollout?