AI and autonomous systems represent the most consequential technology transformation in the history of aerospace and defense. U.S. A&D spending on AI and generative AI is projected to reach $5.8 billion by 2029 — 3.5 times higher than 2025 levels. By 2026, agentic AI is expected to progress from pilot projects to scaled deployments across decision-making, procurement, planning, logistics, maintenance, and administrative functions. Project Maven applies machine learning to intelligence analysis at scale. Palantir secured a $480 million Army contract for AI-enabled command and control. Kratos is building loyal wingman unmanned combat aircraft at 40% lower cost than traditional platforms. The autonomous systems segment is estimated to hold the largest share of the AI in defense market in 2026.
This report provides significant competitor information, analysis, and insight critical to the development and implementation of effective marketing and R&D programs.
Topics Covered
• AI and Autonomous Systems Market Size and Forecast 2025-2030 by Application and Region
• Battle Management AI — Decision Support, Sensor Fusion, and Agentic AI for Commanders
• Autonomous Aerial Systems — Drones, Loyal Wingmen, and Collaborative Combat Aircraft
• Autonomous Ground and Naval Systems — Unmanned Combat Vehicles and Unmanned Surface Vessels
• Predictive Maintenance and Sustainment AI — Reducing Downtime and Extending Platform Life
• AI-Powered ISR — Automated Analysis and Targeting
• Logistics and Supply Chain AI — Demand Forecasting, Parts Management, and Distribution
• Swarm Technology — Coordination Algorithms, Communication, and Tactical Applications
• Competitive Landscape — Prime Contractors, Defense-Tech Startups, and Platform Vendors
• Regional Analysis — North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East
• Investment and Partnership Opportunities — Startups, OTA Contracts, and Acquisition Targets
Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary
2. Market Overview
3. AI and Autonomous Systems Market Size and Forecast 2025-2030 by Application and Region
4. Battle Management AI
5. Autonomous Aerial Systems
6. Autonomous Ground and Naval Systems
7. Predictive Maintenance and Sustainment AI
8. AI-Powered ISR
9. Logistics and Supply Chain AI
10. Swarm Technology
11. Competitive Landscape
12. Regional Market Analysis
13. Strategic Conclusions and Recommendations
14. Appendix
List of Tables
Table 1. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Market Size and Forecast 2025-2030
Table 2. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Market Size by Segment 2025
Table 3. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Market Size by Region 2025-2030
Table 4. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Key Demand Drivers and Impact Assessment
Table 5. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Technology and Segment Growth Comparison 2025-2030
Table 6. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Market Share by Leading Supplier 2025
Table 7. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Recent M&A and Partnership Activity 2023-2025
Table 8. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — North America Market Size and Forecast 2025-2030
Table 9. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Europe Market Size and Forecast 2025-2030
Table 10. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Asia-Pacific Market Size and Forecast 2025-2030
Table 11. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Investment Opportunity Assessment by Segment
Table 12. AI and Autonomous Systems in A&D — Key Risks and Mitigation Strategies
Companies Profiled
Airbus
BAE Systems
Boeing
GE Aerospace
General Dynamics
L3Harris Technologies
Leonardo
Lockheed Martin
Northrop Grumman
RTX
