Dell’Oro Group has released a forecast indicating that the 5G mobile backhaul transport market will expand at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12 percent from 2024 through 2028, before a decline as the industry transitions to 6G upgrades. The report emphasizes the growing dominance of fiber networks, the increasing adoption of wireless backhaul, and the robust demand for E/V Band systems.

Identifying trends in the market, Jimmy Yu, Vice President of Dell’Oro Group, stated, “The 5G cycle started in 2018 and ramped through 2023, driving demand for both wireless and fiber backhaul systems. After a decline in 2024, we anticipate the 5G cycle will drive more demand for mobile backhaul equipment through 2028, which we believe is the year that marks the end of the 5G cycle and the beginning of the 6G cycle.”

Additional highlights from the Microwave Transmission & Mobile Backhaul 5-Year Forecast January 2025 report include:

• The 5G build cycle is anticipated to be longer and more gradual than the 4G cycle, suggesting short-term growth opportunities for mobile backhaul transport following a revenue decline in 2024.
• As fiber use increases with each mobile radio technology generation, the report forecasts that fiber-based systems will dominate backhaul links, although wireless backhaul is expected to grow due to 5G deployments.
• The Microwave Transmission market is predicted to see average annual growth of 3 percent for three years before a contraction begins in 2028.
• Strong demand for E/V Band systems will emerge due to higher backhaul capacity requirements, with expected shipments growing at a 13 percent CAGR over the five-year forecast period.

This comprehensive report tracks various aspects of the 5G mobile backhaul market, providing valuable insights for stakeholders as they navigate the evolving landscape of telecommunications.