Introduction
The market for satellite-based augmentation systems is set to undergo a dramatic evolution between now and 2024, due to the confluence of technological developments, regulatory pressures and changing customer behavior. High-precision satellite navigation and the growing demand for reliable navigation solutions are changing the market and forcing the players to adapt to new standards and capabilities. Furthermore, the regulatory authorities are placing a greater emphasis on the safety and efficiency of air traffic management, which is driving the uptake of satellite-based augmentation systems. The changing customer expectations with regard to navigation systems and the seamless availability of services are influencing the development of the product portfolio and the way services are offered. These trends need to be understood in order to ensure a competitive advantage for the companies involved.
Top Trends
- Increased Adoption of GNSS Augmentation
Governments are adopting augmentation of the GNSS to improve the accuracy of the position. The European Union's EGNOS programme has reported an increase in the use of augmentation in the aeronautical sector of about 30 per cent. This development is expected to improve the operational efficiency and safety of navigation, especially in remote areas. More countries are likely to invest in similar systems. The global use of augmentation will increase.
- Integration with Autonomous Systems
It is this combination which improves the accuracy of the navigation, which is of such importance in the field of automatic operation. In a recent survey, seventy per cent of the manufacturers of unmanned vehicles declared that they would be willing to use SBAS in the interest of safety. And as this system develops further, it will lead to more robust and versatile unmanned vehicles, able to operate in a wide range of conditions.
- Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures
In the era of satellites, the need for reliable cyber security grows. The industry is investing in advanced encryption and security systems to protect the integrity of the satellite navigation system from potential cyber attacks. For example, Raytheon has developed a new framework for cyber security that reduces the vulnerability of the system by 40 per cent. The trend is towards more secure navigation systems, which will be a great advantage for users.
- Collaboration Between Public and Private Sectors
In this way, the development of SBAS is inevitably a public-private partnership. Garmin is a company which has worked closely with governments to improve the transport network and the provision of services. A recent initiative in Canada has seen a 25 per cent increase in the funding available for SBAS projects. This will have a major impact on the speed of innovation and the provision of services.
- Focus on Environmental Sustainability
Using SBAS to support sustainable development is a growing trend. For example, Saab AB has used SBAS for precision agriculture, which has shown a reduction in resource wastage of up to 15 per cent. This is part of a larger trend towards sustainable development, which also includes climate monitoring and disaster response, and therefore also contributes to increased resilience in the environment.
- Advancements in Multi-Constellation Systems
The development of the SBAS is advancing rapidly, with the aim of improving both the accuracy and the reliability of positioning. The group Thales, for example, is leading the way in combining the signals of various satellite systems, which improves performance in urban areas. Recent tests have shown that the accuracy of positioning has improved by 20 per cent. This development will lead to an increase in the number of SBAS applications.
- Growing Demand in Aviation Sector
Taking advantage of the increased demand for safety and efficiency in aviation, the demand for SBAS is growing. The FAA reports an increase of 15% in the use of SBAS in the commercial transport sector. The need for precise landings and reduced operating costs is driving this trend. There may be a more general adoption of SBAS in the international airspace, improving the quality of the world's air transport.
- Emergence of New Market Players
The market for satellite-based services is growing, driven by technological development and a lower barrier to entry. In this field, companies like INTELCAN TECHNOSYSTEMS are innovating, offering cost-effective solutions that are targeted at niche markets. Competition will inevitably lead to a better service and, potentially, lower prices for consumers. The increasing number of market players is likely to lead to further innovation.
- Integration with IoT Technologies
The integration of SBAS with the IoT is becoming increasingly common. The combination of the two enables the sharing of real-time data and the improved management of logistics and transport. According to a study, over half of the logistics companies are now using SBAS for improved tracking. The further development of this technology will undoubtedly lead to smarter supply chains and improved operational efficiency.
- Regulatory Developments and Standardization
Regulation bodies are working to standardise SBAS technology to ensure interoperability and safety. Recent initiatives by the International Telecommunication Union have led to the establishment of new guidelines. These are essential to ensure that SBAS is used to maximum effect across national boundaries. Future regulations may help to facilitate the widespread use of SBAS worldwide.
Conclusion: Navigating the Satellite Augmentation Landscape
The augmentation of the satellite-based systems market in 2024 is characterized by a strong and fragmented competition, with the legacy and emerging players competing for market share. Regional trends are showing a strong demand for increased accuracy in positioning, especially in North America and Asia-Pacific, which is forcing the vendors to adapt their strategies. In order to achieve a competitive advantage, the established players are relying on the existing distribution channels, whereas the emerging players are focusing on innovation, such as automation, artificial intelligence and sustainability. As the market evolves, the ability to offer flexible solutions integrating these advanced technologies will be crucial for the market leaders. The vendors must therefore focus on these areas to stay ahead of the competition and meet the varied needs of their customers.