Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense Market

Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense Market Segment Insights

Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense by Type Insights

Based on Type, the global Cables and Wire for aerospace and defense market has been segmented into: Cable (Coaxial Cable, Power Cable, Shipboard Cable, Others), Wire. The Cable segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Cable segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. 

The cable and wire market for aerospace and defense is experiencing strong growth, driven by increasing demand for advanced aircraft, satellite systems, and military modernisation programs. Innovations in lightweight, high-performance materials are critical to meet stringent durability, heat resistance, and electromagnetic shielding requirements. Rising global defense budgets and the expansion of space exploration initiatives are further boosting the need for specialised cabling solutions. 

Additionally, the shift toward electric and hybrid aircraft technologies is opening new opportunities for high-voltage and fibre optic cables. As systems become more complex and data-driven, reliable, high-capacity wiring is more essential than ever.

FIGURE 2: CABLE AND WIRE FOR AEROSPACE AND DEFENSE MARKET SHARE BY TYPE 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense by Voltage Insights

Based on Voltage, the global Cables and Wire for aerospace and defense market has been segmented into: Low Voltage, Medium Voltage, High Voltage, Extra High Voltage. The Medium Voltage segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Medium Voltage segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. The medium voltage cable and wire market for aerospace and defense is growing as new technologies demand more power for things like electric propulsion, radar systems, and advanced weapons. 

Medium voltage cables are perfect for carrying more energy over longer distances inside aircraft, ships, and military vehicles without losing efficiency. As defense systems become more powerful and energy-hungry, there’s a bigger need for cables that can handle higher loads while staying lightweight and tough. These cables also have to survive harsh conditions like extreme temperatures, moisture, and vibration, making them essential for today’s more electric, more connected defense platforms.

Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense by Material Insights

Based on material, the global Cables and Wire for aerospace and defense market has been segmented into: Copper, Aluminium, Stainless Steel, Polyimide, Teflon. The Copper segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Aluminium segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. The copper cable and wire market for aerospace and defense is growing as copper continues to be the go-to material for reliable, high-performance electrical connections. 

Copper’s excellent conductivity and durability make it ideal for transmitting power, signals, and data in complex systems like avionics, radar, and communications. As aerospace and defense technologies become more advanced and power-hungry, copper cables are essential for efficient energy transfer and high-speed data transmission. Despite the push for lighter materials, copper remains crucial due to its performance, cost-effectiveness, and ability to handle high currents, making it indispensable in military and aerospace applications.

Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense by Application Insights

Based on Application, the global Cables and Wire for aerospace and defense market has been segmented into: Communication Systems, Navigation Systems, Military Ground Equipment, Power Distribution, Others. The Communication Systems segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Military Ground Equipment segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. The communication systems cable and wire market for aerospace and defense is growing rapidly as modern military and aerospace platforms become more connected and reliant on high-speed, secure communication. 

Cables and wires are essential for linking radar, satellite, avionics, and secure communication networks, ensuring real-time data transmission and coordination. As defense technologies advance, the need for lightweight, durable, and high-performance cables is increasing. These cables must withstand extreme conditions like vibration, temperature changes, and electromagnetic interference. With the rise of more complex, data-driven systems, communication cables are critical for the reliability and effectiveness of military and aerospace operations.

Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense by Certification Insights

Based on Certification, the global Cables and Wire for aerospace and defense market has been segmented into: AS/EN 4058, ASTM D638, IEC 60228, MIL-DTL-24682, UL 1581. The AS/EN 4058 segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the ASTM D638 segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period AS/EN 4058 is a European aerospace standard (developed by ASD-STAN and adopted as EN 4058) that specifies requirements for electrical cables and wires used in aircraft. 

It covers performance, construction, and testing criteria for cables, ensuring they meet stringent safety, reliability, and environmental resistance standards for aerospace applications. These standard addresses insulation, conductor materials, and electrical properties to withstand harsh conditions like high temperatures and vibrations. Widely used in commercial and military aircraft wiring, AS/EN 4058 ensures cables meet aerospace safety and performance requirements, making it critical for applications like avionics and aircraft wiring harnesses.

Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense by Conductor Size Insights

Based on Conductor Size, the global Cables and Wire for aerospace and defense market has been segmented into 12 AWG, 14 AWG, 16 AWG, 18 AWG, 20 AWG. The 12 AWG segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the 16 AWG segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. 12 AWG (American Wire Gauge) refers to a conductor with a diameter of approximately 2.05 mm (0.0808 inches) and a cross-sectional area of about 3.31 mm².

It is a relatively thick wire capable of carrying higher currents (up to ~20-25 amps, depending on insulation and conditions) with low resistance, making it suitable for power-intensive applications. 

In aerospace and defense, 12 AWG wires are typically used in applications requiring robust power transmission. Used in aerospace and defense for power distribution in military ground equipment, aircraft electrical systems, and defense electronics where higher current capacity is needed. Its thicker size makes it less flexible but ideal for stable, high-power connections.

Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense by End-Use Insights

Based on End-Use, the global Cables and Wire for aerospace and defense market has been segmented into: Aircraft Wiring, Avionics Systems, Defense Electronics, Ground Support Equipment, Space Systems. The Aircraft Wiring segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Space Systems segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. 

Aircraft Wiring encompasses intricate cable and wire harnesses forming the electrical backbone of fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs. Compliant with standards like MIL-W-22759 or AS/EN 4058, these cables power flight controls, landing gear, and in-flight systems, designed for minimal weight, durability against vibrations, and temperatures from -55°C to 200°C. They dominate due to global aircraft production growth (FAA: 36,500 aircraft by 2040) and demand for efficient wiring in eVTOL platforms.

Cable and Wire for Aerospace and Defense