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The global identification, friend or foe market size was valued at USD 614.5 million in 2024. It is projected to grow from USD 639.9 million in 2025 to USD 849.7 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.60%. North America dominated the identification, friend or foe market with a market share of 35.23% in 2024.
Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems encompass a range of technologies designed to enhance military and civilian air traffic control by positively identifying friendly forces. These systems utilize advanced technologies such as software-defined radios, which enable flexible and secure communication protocols, to improve the accuracy and reliability of identification processes. By enhancing situational awareness, IFF systems play a critical role in preventing friendly fire incidents and ensuring operational safety in complex environments.
IFF systems are typically installed on friendly aircraft, vehicles, or personnel to provide real-time identification data, distinguishing them from potential threats. These systems emit signals between manned and unmanned platforms, facilitating secure communication and identification across various domains. The use of IFF systems is essential for maintaining operational security and ensuring the safety of military and civilian assets in both national defense and air traffic control contexts.
In the broader market, IFF systems are evolving to meet the demands of modern warfare and air traffic management, with ongoing advancements in encryption, digital architectures, and interoperability standards like Mode 5. This evolution supports the integration of IFF technologies into diverse platforms, from aircraft to ground-based systems, to provide comprehensive situational awareness and enhance combat identification capabilities.

The Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) market is experiencing significant growth, fueled by the need to distinguish between friendly and hostile forces, thereby reducing the risk of friendly fire in military operations. It includes various technologies, including transponder-based systems and advanced GPS solutions, which are used in military and commercial aviation applications. With increasing global defense budgets and the growing need for improved situational awareness, the IFF market is witnessing significant growth, particularly in North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific regions.
Additionally, technological advancements, particularly in terrestrial and aerial IFF systems, are also fueling market growth and making systems more efficient and reliable. However, the market faces challenges, such as high implementation costs and integration issues among different systems. Key players such as Raytheon Technologies and BAE Systems are focused on research and development to improve IFF technologies and actively innovate solutions to address these challenges, enhance system efficiency, and expand their global presence. These factors position the market for continued growth in the coming years.
For Instance, in January 2019, the U.S Navy Air Warfare Center Aircraft awarded Telephonics contract worth USD 15.1 million contract for a maximum of 50 AN/UPX-43(V)1 Identification Friend or Foe Interrogators, 50 IFFI mounting trays, and repairs in support of P-8A Poseidon production lots 9,10, and 11.
Increasing Defense Budgets and Modernization of Military Operations Programs to Propel Market Growth
Countries are focusing on modernizing their military capabilities due to increasing geopolitical tensions, leading to significant increase in defense expenditures to improve military capabilities. Ongoing conflicts are driving military modernization efforts, creating a global requirement for upgrading exciting IFF systems to counter emerging threats and operational requirements. This program includes the integration of IFF systems with unmanned aerial vehicles and other defense systems. Leading companies in the identification friend or foe systems market, such as BAE Systems Plc., Elbit Systems Ltd., General Dynamics, and others, are actively developing innovative products to improve their strategic position in the market.
For instance, in April 2019, the U.S. Air Force awarded General Dynamics a contract worth USD 20.2 million for the KIV-78 mode 4/5 cryptographic IFF system. This contract involves various units and support for U.S. and foreign military sales, improving the avionics capabilities of military aircraft with secure IFF systems.
A major trend in the identification friend or foe system market is research and development efforts to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the system. Leading companies in this sector are actively developing cutting-edge technologies to maintain their positions in the market. For instance, in September 2024, BAE Systems is working on redesigning a Mode 5-capable common IFF digital transponder as part of their efforts to modernize military identification systems. The program aims to improve performance and ensure compatibility with current military standards.
Technical Challenges and Regulatory Hurdles to Restrain Market Growth
The integration of advanced technologies into existing military systems presents significant challenges, as these systems are highly complex and need specialist support. Moreover, integrating this complex IFF requires support from specialized mechanics, which adds up to more initial costs and hinders the initial program budget.
Additionally, IFF systems must comply with stringent international standards and regulations to ensure compliance among allied forces. Navigating these complex regulatory frameworks can delay deployment and increase costs, particularly for manufacturers aiming to supply systems to multiple countries, as regulatory requirements can vary country-wise.
As IFF systems become more advanced and interconnected, they are increasingly subject to cyber threats. Protecting these systems from hacking, jamming, and other forms of electronic warfare is important. However, implementing robust cyber security measures adds complexity and cost, potentially hindering the identification friend or foe market growth.
Technological Advancements and Integration with UAVs to Present Significant Growth Opportunities
Drone threats are becoming more prevalent, resulting in the increasing demand for advanced IFF systems capable of identifying unmanned aerial vehicle threats. Innovative solutions that enhance security against such threads have been a key factor in market growth. Moreover, emerging markets are increasingly investing in defense capabilities, presenting opportunities for IFF systems providers to expand their reach and develop innovative solutions to meet evolving needs.
Additionally, partnerships between defense contractors and tech companies are leading the development of next-generation IFF systems. For Instance, in July 2023, the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama and Sagetech Avionics, Inc. entered into a cooperative research and development agreement. This partnership aims to integrate advanced IFF capabilities into unmanned aircraft systems, improving the identification process and operational safety of Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) in military applications.
The combination of AI and ML allows in IFF systems enables predictive maintenance, reduced time, and increased operational readiness. For Example, in January 2025, British startup Faculty AI is developing AI technology for military drones, focusing on applications such as subject identification and object tracking for UAVs.
Integration with Unmanned Systems to Improve Safety Drive Market Growth
There is a growing trend toward integrating IFF capabilities with unmanned platforms to improve mission efficiency and safety in complex operational environments. The integration of IFF with unmanned systems allows for better coordination between manned and unmanned during conflicts. For Instance, in February 2022, Ultra Electronics successfully deployed its Hawk IFF system during the U.S. Army Maneuver and Fires Integration Experiment at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Integrated into a UAS in partnership with Berry Aviation Inc., the Hawk IFF demonstrated the capability to quickly identify blue force UASs, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of Counter-UAS systems.
Additionally, technological advancements in material science and data processing are driving the improvements in IFF system accuracy and digital integrations. For instance, in September 2024, the U.S. Navy awarded BAE systems contract worth USD 19 million to design and implement the UPX-24 target data processor. This upgrade aims to provide advanced digital interrogator capabilities, improving the ability to identification of friendly or hostile forces.
For Instance, in June 2024, Sweden awarded Saab a contract worth USD 246 million to deliver a third GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft. The GlobalEye system provides long-range detection and identification across air, sea, and land domains, delivering real-time intelligence to military units.
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Rising Geopolitical Tensions are Influencing Market Growth amid the Russia-Ukraine War
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine had a significant impact on the global Identification of Friend or Foe market. This impact can be analyzed through various parameters, including its implications on global military procurement and modernization programs.
Increased Defense Spending and Demand for Substantial Investment in Advanced IFF Systems: -
The conflict has shown the importance of identification technologies to prevent friendly fire incidents and improve situation awareness. Due to this, militaries worldwide are now prioritizing upgrades to IFF systems, particularly those with advanced modes such as Mode 5, which offer encrypted identification and enhanced security. For Instance, NATO allied forces are advancing IFF modernization programs; in August 2024, NATO’s AWACS aircraft conducted operations controlling Swedish Air Force fighter jets in Swedish airspace and demonstrating improved integration and interoperability between NATO and Sweden.
Integration with Modern Warfare Technologies: -
The war has increased the pace of integrating IFF systems with advanced technologies such as UAVs, electronic warfare systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning. For instance, in February 2021, uAvionix launched an Identification Friend or Foe solution for small tactical UAVs. The system is designed to provide enhanced situational awareness and reduce fratricide in UAVs operations.
Challenges in Urban and Hybrid Warfare and Disturb the Supply Chain: -
The Russia-Ukraine conflict involves both conventional and hybrid warfare, where combat zones often are the civilian areas. This makes IFF systems even more important, as they identify UAS, distinguishing combatants from non-combatants, and function effectively in electronic warfare environment.
Due to sanctions on Russia and geopolitical tensions, the conflict has disrupted the global supply chain for defense equipment, including IFF components. This has resulted in disruption in production and increased spare part costs. To tackle this situation, manufacturers are taking proactive measures to reduce dependence on disrupted supply chains. For instance, in September 2024, Saab announced plans to set up production in Ukraine to support the development of the country’s independent defense capabilities.
Electronic IFF Segment Dominated the Market Owing to Enhanced Security and Adaptability
Based on technology segment, the market is classified into Electronic IFF, Infrared IFF, and Radio Frequency IFF.
Electronic IFF segment dominated the market, holding the largest market share in 2024. The rising incidence of electronic attacks has increased the demand for electronic IFF systems, which have capabilities to handle and identify the attack mode, especially in high-tech and integrated warfare environments. These systems include technologies such as Mode 5 and Mode S transponders, which offer encrypted communication, enhanced security, and real-time data exchange capabilities. Additionally, modern radar systems, ground control stations, and other defense networks ensure that electronic IFF provide reliable and efficient identification systems. Moreover, electronic IFF systems are adaptable to evolving threats, making them the ideal choice for modern defense forces globally.
For instance, in September 2024, the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command awarded BAE Systems a USD 30 million contract to redesign the identification friend or foe digital transponder to address component obsolescence and improve system reliability.
The Radio Frequency IFF segment is experiencing the fastest growth, with the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The growth is propelled by its important role in integrating unmanned aerial vehicles and autonomous platforms into defense networks. Additionally, advancements in RF signal processing, such as improved range and accuracy, further propel the adoption in military applications. The increasing adoption of RF IFF systems in emerging markets and their cost-effectiveness compared to complex electronic systems result in the segment's fast growth.
For instance, in September 2024, Viasat announced its VRG-1000 Radio Frequency Generator received recertification from the Department of Defense AIMS program office. The VRG-1000 is designed to reduce IFF certification testing times from weeks to hours, streamlining the testing process for defense applications.
Military Platforms Segment Dominated the Market Owing to Continuous Technological Upgrades
By application, the market is segmented into military platforms, civilian air traffic control, and defense systems.
The military platform segment dominated the market, holding the largest market share in 2024. Military platforms include combat airborne platforms, naval vessels, and ground forces platforms, which play an essential role in modern warfare. These platforms are used in different and high-threat environments where correct identification is important to prevent injuries in friendly fire incidents and ensure mission success. Airborne platforms such as fighter jets and surveillance aircraft rely on IFF systems for real-time identification during combat and inspection missions. The widespread deployment of these platforms across various regions and continuous upgrades with advanced warfare technologies further strengthen this segment dominance in the market.
For Instance, in September 2024, Indra signed a framework agreement with the Spanish Ministry of Defense to upgrade the country's ground-based air defense systems. This modernization involves integrating advanced identification friend or foe technology, improving the Spanish army's ability to identify potential threats.
The defense systems segment is experiencing the fastest growth, with the highest CAGR. Defense systems include missile defense systems and coastal surveillance applications due to increasing demand for advanced security solutions in response to rising geopolitical tensions and evolving aerial and maritime threads. The growing focus on developing integrated, automated, and AI-based defense systems to counter emerging threads, such as hypersonic missiles and drones, is further driving the adoption of IFF technologies in this segment.
Airborne Platform Segment Showcases Highest CAGR Owing to Technological Advancements in the Demand for IFF Systems
By platform, the market is segmented into platform airborne, land-based, naval, and space-based.
The airborne segment dominated the identification friend or foe market, accounting for the largest market share in 2024. This growth is attributed to the growing utilization of military aircraft due to their versatility and operational flexibility in missions such as ISR, troop and cargo transport, and close air support. Additionally, next-generation airborne platforms are equipped with state-of-the-art IFF technology are being developed to enhance operational competence and efficiency. Recent advancements, including better radar capabilities and integration with electronic warfare systems, further propel market growth.
For instance, in October 2024, the U.S. State Department approved a foreign military sale to Italy worth USD 680 million for the electronic attack (EA)-37B mission system. The package includes the System Control and Monitoring Systems, KIV-77 Mode 4/5 systems, AN/PYQ-10C simple key loaders, and other essential equipment.
The space-based segment is experiencing the fastest growth, with highest CAGR. As space-based military strategy gain prominence, investments in space-based IFF systems are growing rapidly. These systems provide extra coverage, enhancing situational awareness and critical data for decision-making. Rising geopolitical tensions and ongoing conflicts have driven nations to explore space-based solutions for long-range surveillance and reconnaissance purposes. Additionally, the collaboration between government bodies and private aerospace firms is fueling the advancements in space-based IFF technology. This has resulted in driving innovation, reducing costs, and improving the overall reliability and efficiency of space-based IFF systems.
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Transponder Segment Dominates the Market due to Technological Advancements
By system type, the market into transponders, interrogators, and control panels.
Transponders segment dominate the market, fueled by the increasing application of Mode 4/5 transponders and Mode S transponders in military applications. Transponders play an important role in military aviation and naval operations by ensuring accurate identification of friendly forces. The demand for advanced transponder systems that seamlessly integrate with modern aircraft and naval vessels further propels market growth. The ongoing development of transponder technologies, such as Mode 5 IFF systems, has improved data processing, increased operational range, and better resistance to jamming techniques, making transponders a vital part of the IFF systems.
For instance, in May 2024, uAvionix collaborated with R Cubed Engineering to achieve AIMS Mk XIIB certification for the RT-2087/ZPX-1, the World's first certified Mode 5 Micro-IFF combined Transponder Receiver and the first Mode 5 CTR integrated with the new KIV-79.
Control panels are experiencing rapid growth due to their ability to integrate with advanced IFF systems and other command and control technologies. The rise in global military expenditures has led to investments in extensive research and development for future systems and modernized command and control infrastructures, improving operational efficiency and decision-making processes. For Instance, in July 2022, the Norwegian armed forces awarded Hensoldt a contract worth USD 15 million to deliver upgraded Identification-Friend-or-Foe technology. Under this contract, Hensoldt delivered MSSR 2000ID secondary radars and LTR400 DNG transponders, including cryptographic and test equipment.
Ultra High-Frequency Segment Experiences Fastest Growth Propelled by its Effectiveness in Urban Environments
By frequency range, the market is divided into Low-Frequency (LF) (Below 30 MHz), High-Frequency (HF) (3-30 MHz), and Ultra-High-Frequency (UHF) (300-3000 MHz).
High-Frequency (HF) segment from three to thirty MHz dominates the market, driven by its widespread adoption across military, naval, and commercial aviation applications. High-frequency systems provide a reliable and effective solution for communication over long distances, which plays a vital role in military applications. HF systems have been widely used for a long time, making them trusted choices in identification and communication in various operations, including challenging terrains where other frequency bands may face limitations.
For instance, in February 2023, the U.S. Navy awarded a Curtiss-Wright contract worth USD 8.7 million contract to enhance identification of friends or foes capabilities. Through this contract, Curtiss-Wright would deliver a single-board computer for the AN/UPX-24(V) IFF processor sets, supporting navy operations.
The Ultra-High-Frequency (UHF) segment (300-3000 MHz) is experiencing the fastest growth, fueled by the increasing demand for advanced data transmission capabilities and enhanced identification resolution. UHF systems offer advantages such as data rate, shorter wavelengths, and the ability to operate effectively in urban areas where obstacles may disrupt signals. Additionally, the integration of modern technologies, including automated processing and advanced signal encryption, is propelling the demand for new installations and upgrades, particularly in UAS operations and other military platforms
With Increasing Defense Budgets and Rising Geopolitical Tensions, the Defense Forces Segment Dominates the Market
Based on end user, the market is divided into defense forces and commercial airlines.
The defense forces segment accounted for the largest market share in 2024, propelled by increasing defense budgets and geopolitical tensions, particularly conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine, which have proved the importance of IFF systems in preventing friendly fire incidents. For instance, in August 2024, Ukraine lost its F-16 in combat operation. The incident highlighted the challenges of coordinating missile interception missions involving fighter jets and air defense batteries. Reports suggest that neither the fight jets nor the ground-based air defense units used IFF during the operation, leading to the loss of the F-16. This incident has reinforced the need for IFF systems in modern warfare, driving demand across various regions.
For instance, in February 2024, the U.S. approved an aerostat sale to Poland contract worth USD 1.2 billion. The contract involves four aerostat systems, airborne early warning radars with identification friend-or-for capabilities, mooring systems, and other electronic surveillance technologies to strengthen Poland’s defense infrastructure.
Raw Material Suppliers
Component Suppliers
Manufacturers
Distributors
End Users
Role of ITAR in Supply Chain
By region, the market is segmented by region into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.
North America Identification Friend or Foe Market Size, 2024 (USD Million)
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North America remains the dominant region in the identification friend or foe market share, accounting for the largest market share in 2024. This growth is driven by advancements in defense technology and increasing defense budgets, with the U.S. is at the forefront. The U.S. Department of Defense continues to invest heavily in defense equipment, including IFF systems, to enhance military operations.
For instance, in September 2021, the U.S. Navy awarded BAE Systems a USD 26 million contract for Identification Friend or Foe spares parts for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft. As part of the contract, BAE Systems would provide Beamforming Networks (BFNs), an integral part of antenna control for the AN/APX-122A IFF interrogator system. This system provides identification between friend and foe aircraft, giving E-2D Advanced Hawkeye operators situational awareness during the missions. For instance, in July 2023, the U.S. Navy awarded a BAE system contract worth USD 15 million to deliver its next-generation digital identification friend or foe (IFF) interrogator for maritime vessels.
Europe was the second-dominant region in terms of market share in 2024. The growth in this region is attributed to government collaboration and the need for enhanced security and defense measures amidst rising geopolitical tension and Russia-Ukraine conflicts. The founding of initiatives such as NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense Systems aims to propel market growth in this region, enabling advanced detection and tracking capabilities.
For instance, in May 2024, Indra collaborated with Shipyard Navantia to implement the latest NATO standards in the Identification of friend or foe systems on a ship destined for the export market. This upgrades allow ships to interrogate unidentified platforms within their operations area, using encrypted responses or the absence of a response to determine whether a platform is an ally or a potential enemy.
The Asia Pacific region is witnessing the fastest growth, with the highest CAGR. The growth is driven by rising military expenditures, modernization programs, and increasing regional conflicts. Nations such as China, India, and Japan are focusing on the enhancement of their defense capabilities, resulting in increasing demand for advanced IFF systems in the region.
For instance, in April 2021, the U.S. Department of Defense awarded Lockheed Martin a contract worth USD 138 million to upgrade Taiwan’s Peace Phoenix Rising 2 program. This program involves the development and deployment of Lockheed Martin’s Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System, the Raytheon AGM-88 High-Speed Anti-radiation missile, and advanced IFF systems.
For instance, in February 2022, the South Korean Military awarded Hensoldt a contract worth USD 11.36 million to provide state-of-the-art identification IFF systems. The contract involves supplying 20 mono-pulse secondary surveillance radar 2000s, test equipment, and related support services.
The Middle East & Africa is anticipated to witness moderate growth during the forecast period. The Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) nations are particularly focused on modernizing military capabilities, which involves upgrading IFF systems. The UAE’s initiative to enhance its military assets includes upgrading IFF systems, supported by industry partnerships with global defense firms. This highlights the growing significance of IFF technology in the region for enhanced security.
The Latin America region is experiencing significant growth during the forecast period. Countries in this region are slowly recognizing the importance of advanced identification technologies for their military and law enforcement agencies. Brazil and Argentina are leading the charge in upgrading defense technologies. Recent developments include Brazil’s investment in a national defense strategy to boost the air and maritime IFF market to enhance security and indicate a positive trend toward modernization across the region.
Ongoing regional conflicts and geopolitical tensions have prompted military forces in Latin America to prioritize investments in electronic warfare technologies to ensure the safety of their assets.
Leading Players Are Focusing on Integrating Advanced Technologies into Unmanned Aerial Systems to Increase their Global Presence
The identification friend or foe system market is characterized by a competitive landscape featuring key players such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems. These companies are leveraging advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and electronic warfare systems, to enhance the effectiveness of their identification solutions against evolving threats such as drones and unmanned aerial vehicles. The increasing geopolitical tensions and military modernization efforts are driving demand for sophisticated identification friend or foe systems across various military platforms.
For instance, in July 2024, the U.S. Navy and Japan awarded Northrop Grumman a USD 1.5 billion contract to deliver E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft. It involves the fully integrated tactical cockpit, an advanced identification friend or for the system, electronic support measures, and a modernized communications and data link suite.
Regional dynamics play a significant role in shaping the competitive environment, with North America leading due to substantial defense budgets and technological advancements, followed by Europe and the Asia Pacific regions. The market is expected to grow robustly as key players continue to innovate and expand their product offerings to meet the increasing demand for effective identification solutions in military operations. Additionally, the integration of IFF technologies and enhancements in aircraft survivability against friendly and hostile fire will drive significant growth in the identification friend or foe system market over the coming years.
The report provides a detailed analysis of the market and focuses on important aspects, such as key players, products, applications, and platforms depending on various countries. Moreover, it offers deep insights into the market trends, competitive landscape, market competition, pricing of airborne countermeasures, and market status and highlights key industry developments. Additionally, it encompasses several direct and indirect factors that have contributed to the expansion of the global market in recent years.
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DETAILS |
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Study Period |
2019-2032 |
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Base Year |
2024 |
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Estimated Year |
2025 |
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Forecast Period |
2025-2032 |
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Historical Period |
2019-2023 |
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Growth Rate |
CAGR of 3.60% from 2025 to 2032 |
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Value (USD Million) |
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Segmentation
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By Technology
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By Application
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By Platform
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By System Type
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By Frequency Range
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By End-User
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By Region
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According to the Fortune Business Insights study, the global market was valued at USD 614.5 million in 2024 and is anticipated to be USD 849.7 million by 2032.
The identification friend or foe market is projected to grow at 3.60% over the forecast period.
The top ten players in the industry are BAE Systems plc, RTX Corporation, Thales Group, Leonardo S.p.A., ASELSAN A.S., HENSOLDT AG, Indra Sistemas S.A., General Dynamics Corporation, Elbit Systems Ltd., Raytheon Technologies, L3Harris Technologies, Textron Inc., General Atomics based on parameters such as Services Portfolio, Regional Presence, and Industry Experience.
North America dominated the global Identification Friend or Foe market report in 2024, with USD 216.2 million, and is anticipated to dominate the market again, estimated to reach USD 299.4 million by 2032.
U.S. dominated the global market in 2024.
Airborne has higher adoption rate among other platforms.
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