Filtronic, a leading designer and manufacturer of advanced RF and microwave solutions, has been awarded funding through the UK Space Agency National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) to develop a high-power 550W Ka-Band Solid-State Power Amplifier (SSPA). The project will advance Filtronic’s proprietary gallium nitride (GaN) technology and integrated system design, setting new standards in efficiency, linearity and reliability for satellite communications.
Housed in an enclosure fully compatible with existing Travelling Wave Tube Amplifier (TWTA) systems, the new SSPA offers plug-and-play transition to adopting solid-state technology while maintaining current infrastructure.
This provides satellite operators with a cost-effective migration path that reduces operational expenditure and maintenance requirements, without compromising performance.
Filtronic’s development will deliver a proprietary GaN power amplifier Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) which will be integrated with a proprietary waveguide power combining technique employing advanced thermal management, and engineering to optimise performance while reducing manufacturing cost and complexity.
Such capabilities will complement our existing product portfolio and help ensure the company’s successful delivery of high-reliability RF systems for both commercial and defence space programmes. In turn, this supports the growing demand for higher bandwidth, higher power and improved system resilience in orbit and on the ground.
“This award reflects the strength of our innovation pipeline and our place in the UK’s space ecosystem,” said Tudor Williams, Chief Technology Officer at Filtronic. “The 550W Ka-Band SSPA is a significant step change in solid-state performance, offering leading linear power in a TWTA-compatible form factor.
“It will also enable operators to transition from travelling wave tube systems with reduced operating expense and enhanced reliability, helping to support more sustainable and future-ready satellite networks.”
UK Space Agency Investment Director, Dr Craig Brown said: “Filtronic’s project is a great example of the ambition behind the National Space Innovation Programme, turning cutting-edge UK research into commercially viable solutions that strengthen our global competitiveness. By advancing high-power solid-state amplifier technology, this project not only supports more resilient satellite networks but also accelerates the UK’s journey towards a sustainable and innovative space economy.”
Drawing on experience gained through strategic partnerships with major industry players, including SpaceX, Filtronic’s integrated design and manufacturing model continues to deliver cost-efficient, scalable solutions for both TWTA replacement programmes and emerging ground system applications.
It is this track record of innovation and delivery that led to the project being selected under NSIP’s “Major Projects” category, a scheme designed to advance the commercialisation of high-impact UK technologies, de-risk investment and speed up the route to market.
Filtronic’s project contributes directly to the National Space Strategy’s vision to make the UK one of the world’s most innovative and competitive space economies. It does so by catalysing private investment, increasing Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and strengthening the UK’s presence in global space markets.
For more information about Filtronic’s space-qualified RF and mmWave solutions, visit the website here. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
Filtronic has successfully completed a multi-year project to develop novel plastic QFN packaging for Gallium Nitride (GaN) devices, marking a significant milestone for UK sovereign capability in advanced semiconductor technology. The project was part-funded through the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), part of UK Defence Innovation, via its Defence Technology Exploitation Programme (DTEP). Supported by a major defence prime contractor, the project was completed in August 2025.
The programme saw Filtronic design, manufacture and qualify QFNs incorporating GaN-based MMICs, this included the procurement and commissioning of a QFN production line to enhance vertical integration.
Working closely with its customer and the awarding body, this creative, engineering-led work integrated developed the required processes and techniques to overcome some of the known issues of QFN technology particularly for high power density compound semiconductor devices.
More than 150 units were manufactured and subjected to extensive qualification testing under some of the most challenging conditions possible. This included high-moisture exposure at level five, thermal cycling across 500 ramps and rigorous electrical stress testing designed to push the devices to their limits.
Despite the extreme demands of GaN, which generates substantial heat, every device passed 100 per cent of electrical performance tests.
“This project demonstrates the UK’s ability to deliver advanced GaN technologies at scale, while also proving the robustness of novel packaging approaches,” said Tudor Williams , Chief Technology Officer of Filtronic.
“By pushing devices to their limits and validating their performance, we’ve taken a step forward in sovereign capability. This not only puts Filtronic at the forefront of GaN innovation but, crucially, strengthens the UK’s independence in critical semiconductor technology and secures its future in advanced defence, space and communication systems.
“Working with Filtronic on this project is a great example of how UKDI-DASA supports UK-based technology leaders to deliver strategic advantage at pace,” commented UKDI-DASA, DTEP Business Relationship Manager. “This collaboration is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and helping to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of defence innovation.”
GaN is recognised as a critical technology for next-generation defence and communications systems, and this project highlights Filtronic’s expertise in bringing novel ideas from concept through to proven, production-ready solutions.
For more information about Filtronic’s range of components and solutions for defence and aerospace applications, visit its website here. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
~ Proven filter and diplexer heritage supports LEO constellation expansion ~
Filtronic, a leader in high-frequency RF solutions for space applications has secured a contract, with a leading European aerospace manufacturer, to supply RF assemblies for integration into a major Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation programme. The contract, valued in excess of €7 million, represents a significant commitment to be delivered over the next three years.
These complex assemblies, designed and manufactured in-house by Filtronic are engineered to withstand the demanding conditions of the space environment at low Earth orbit, delivering high-reliability performance across a wide range of communication applications.
“This contract highlights the increasing diversification across customers within the space markets and reflects the trust placed in Filtronic’s capability to deliver at scale for the most demanding space applications,” said Nat Edington, Chief Executive Officer at Filtronic. “As demand for satellite connectivity continues to grow, this is another milestone in Filtronic’s mission to support the growing satellite market for Non-Terrestrial Networks, Mobile Satellite Services, and Direct-to-Device connectivity.”
Manufacturing will take place at Filtronic’s state-of-the-art facilities in the North East of England. The award reinforces Filtronic’s position at the forefront of RF and mmWave innovation and deepens its partnership with a key European customer, marking further business in the rapidly growing LEO constellation sector.
For more information about Filtronic’s range of components and solutions for space and defence applications, visit its website here. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
~ Showcasing a market-leading portfolio of V- and W-band solutions setting new standards in satellite communications ~
Leading expert in RF and mm-Wave technology, Filtronic is launching the latest development in leading-edge Solid State Power Amplifiers in V-band. The Cerus V, will be showcased alongside its Cerus W solid-state power amplifiers at European Microwave Week (EuMW 2025), taking place from 21–26 September in Utrecht, Netherlands.
With unrivalled high-frequency power, the Cerus V is designed for high-reliability mission-critical satellite uplinks and advanced RF applications with scalability and modular redundancy.
The system represents a step-change for Filtronic, introducing their latest Gallium Nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology to the Cerus 32 solid-state power amplifiers (SSPAs). Building on decades of expertise in high-performance, mission-critical mmWave solutions, this new GaN-enabled platform delivers flexible, scalable deployment for the most demanding applications.
The established Cerus range with an enviable track record will operate in the high bandwidth 47.2–52.4 GHz range. Cerus V supports a full 5.2 GHz bandwidth and delivers saturated output power up to 50 dBm (100 W).
In addition, the platform can expand from single units to multi-module configurations, featuring built-in redundancy and graceful degradation modes to maintain operation under fault conditions.
“As demand for high-frequency, high-power RF solutions accelerates across space, defence and telecoms, our Cerus amplifiers set a new benchmark for what’s possible,” said Antonino Spatola, Chief Commercial Officer at Filtronic.
“Each platform is engineered not only for exceptional performance, but also for the flexibility, reliability and scalability that long-term, mission-critical applications demand. From satellite ground stations to next-generation high-frequency networks, Cerus sub-systems equip engineers with the power and resilience to meet the toughest challenges head-on.”
Filtronic will also showcase Cerus W, a W-band solid-state power amplifier operating between 92–114 GHz and delivering over 10 watts of output power. Compact and lightweight, Cerus W is optimised for demanding environments such as aerospace, defence, space and telecom infrastructure, with high output power and linearity achieved through advanced monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) technology.
For more information on Filtronic’s new V-band product, the Cerus V or the Cerus W, please visit www.filtronic.com.
By Antonino Spatola, Chief Commercial Officer, Filtronic
To meet demand for greater mmWave signal power in satellite uplinks, Filtronic has developed next-generation V-band SSPAs offering outputs of 100W, redefining the possibilities for signal range and data throughput in high-frequency communications.
Semiconductor-based solid-state power amplifiers (SSPAs) are critical components in radio frequency (RF) systems, amplifying input signals to the required power for transmission. At higher mmWave frequencies, increasing the power output of SSPAs is key to enabling high-quality signals to be transmitted reliably over long distances.
To achieve improved data rates and high-speed connectivity between ground stations and satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), satellite operators are looking further up the frequency spectrum. They require power amplifiers that are pushing the performance boundaries. Recognising this, Filtronic is releasing a new SSPA to complement its market-leading Cerus range, the Cerus V. With 100W of output power, this high-power amplifier is vital to meeting the sector’s data rate and speed expectations, as communications move into uncongested V-band and further up the RF spectrum into W-band.
No easy route to generating high power at mmWave
Generating sufficient power to transmit signals reliably at mmWave is a challenging task. Transistors perform less well at mmWave, meaning complex amplifier designs are required to optimise internal configuration, enhance linearity and produce strong signals. Gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor compounds are now available to improve SSPA power and efficiency within specific frequency ranges, but GaN-based devices demand precision manufacturing to achieve the necessary tolerances.
Achieving higher power density in a single amplifier is not enough on its own, since individual devices only deliver around 3W each at higher frequencies. Multiple devices must therefore be combined in optimal ways to deliver the output power required, while maximising the performance of each individual amplifier. As the power output increases, so does the amount of heat generated, meaning excess heat must be managed and dissipated within a compact SSPA package.
From tubes to semiconductors at higher frequencies
The amplification technology traditionally used in RF communications has been the travelling wave tube amplifier (TWTA). Although well-established and reliable, TWTAs are structurally complex, time-consuming to manufacture and have a limited lifespan. By contrast, lower-cost SSPAs can be manufactured reliably at scale and offer greater longevity and repeatability. Consequently, SSPAs are displacing TWTAs in most applications. However, TWTAs have held sway in higher-frequency satellite communications, where they have always offered greater power and efficiency than SSPAs.
But now, Filtronic is breaking new ground by developing SSPAs with high power output that can operate efficiently at mmWave – extending the benefits of semiconductor amplifier technology to higher-frequency satellite communications for the first time.
Ingenuity and experience deliver higher-power SSPAs
These breakthroughs in SSPA output power at mmWave have been achieved thanks to advances in semiconductor processes and our own innovative combining techniques.
Gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductors now offer much higher power densities and higher frequency capabilities, making them a viable alternative to gallium arsenide (GaAs) at certain frequencies. Drawing on our experience in the ground segment market, we have deployed GaN semiconductors in our own MMIC designs to create SSPAs at V-band.
We have also developed proprietary low-loss combining techniques to integrate multiple amplifiers into a single product, while optimising performance. This has enabled us to develop the Cerus 32 SSPA, combining 32 amplifiers in a single module. These GaN-powered SSPAs now offer output power of 50W or 100W for V-band applications, combined with excellent efficiency and linearity.
To dissipate the heat generated by these powerful, compact amplifiers, we have developed effective thermal management solutions using heatsinks, appropriate die-attach materials, epoxies and silver sintering, alongside advanced packaging.
Why power amplifiers matter for satellite communications
SSPAs with up to 100W of output power can enable satellite operators to boost signal range, improve reliability and increase data throughput. These gains equate to improved link budgets, with higher power output helping to counteract losses between the transmitter and receiver. Such link improvements are particularly important for satellite uplinks and LEO gateways where transmission distances are large and path losses are high.
More powerful amplifiers also mean fewer individual components are needed to achieve the desired signal amplification. This allows for simpler system architecture and reduces the need to combine multiple low-power amplifier modules.
Beyond satellite communications,100W amplifiers have wider applications in defence, aerospace and telecommunications. Power-intensive radar and sensing systems will benefit from longer detection ranges and stronger return signals. In 5G and 6G backhaul applications, high-power amplifiers can strengthen signal transmission in dense, high-capacity environments. High-power SSPAs can also be integrated into phased arrays and active antennas to enhance these systems.
Unlocking new possibilities in RF communications
Increasing the power capabilities of SSPAs at the higher end of the frequency range presents new opportunities to extend the reach of RF communications. By providing more compact, durable and scalable alternatives to traditional TWTAs, GaN-based SSPAs offer a way to meet future connectivity demands and bandwidth requirements.
Introducing 100W SSPAs to the satellite market is a major milestone in the advancement of speed, signal range and capacity. These new SSPAs offer a game-changing solution for high-frequency satellite communications, where low latency, efficiency and reliability are non-negotiables.
For more information about our range of high-power SSPA solutions, please visit our website or speak to a member of our team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
You can explore our exciting Cerus range of SSPAs here.
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Creating a powerful SME alliance for advanced RF solutions and export opportunities
Filtronic, a leading designer and manufacturer of advanced RF and microwave solutions, has announced it has joined TEAM FORTITUDE, a sovereign partnership with Penten Amio, Mercury-EW and a wider supplier ecosystem. This collaboration brings together trusted British SMEs to deliver high-performance, agile and export-ready Electronic Deception capabilities.
TEAM FORTITUDE is a response to the growing demand for sovereign capability in the Electronic Warfare domain, leveraging the agility and innovation of UK SMEs. Together, the partners offer a flexible and scalable ecosystem that can rapidly respond to evolving defence requirements. The core team is also able to draw on a wider network of sovereign specialist SMEs and best-in-class suppliers, enabling a tailored and modular approach to customer needs.
Filtronic’s role in TEAM FORTITUDE is to provide specialist design, development, manufacturing, and testing of complex RF hardware, enabling rapid transition from early technology readiness levels (TRL) to scalable volume production. With decades of experience in high-reliability RF solutions for defence, aerospace and space markets, Filtronic ensures that mission-critical Electronic Warfare hardware is delivered on time, to specification, and ready for deployment.
“We’re proud to be a founding partner of TEAM FORTITUDE, bringing our RF engineering expertise to support the UK’s sovereign defence capabilities,” said Nat Edington, CEO of Filtronic. “This partnership showcases the strength of collaboration between innovative British SMEs and creates a robust platform for delivering cutting-edge EW technology both at home and abroad.”
“Our mission is to deliver trusted innovation that gives our defence partners the operational edge,” said Matt Thomas, UK CEO, PentenAmio. “By forming TEAM FORTITUDE, we’re uniting best-of-British capability to accelerate the delivery of electronic deception technologies—not only for the UK MOD, but also in support of our AUKUS partners across Australia, the United States, and the broader allied defence community.”
“At Mercury EW, we firmly believe that human performance is central to operational success,” said Andrew Lonsdale, CTO, Mercury EW. “With the increasing prevalence of technology and automated intelligence in military operations, we must train our people cleverer, earlier, and with absolute fidelity to overmatch our adversaries. As a proud co-founding member of team Fortitude, that is our objective.”
TEAM FORTITUDE also opens significant export opportunities, positioning the UK as a key player in the global Electronic Warfare market. The combination of sovereign capability, agile innovation and proven industrial capacity presents a compelling proposition for allied nations seeking trusted partners for advanced Electronic Deception capabilities.
Looking ahead, the team sees opportunities for growth across land, maritime, air and space domains, offering high-performance, scalable solutions that can be tailored for both current and future operational needs.
For more information about Filtronic’s range of solutions for Aerospace, Defence and Space applications, visit the website here. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
About PentenAmio: PentenAmio is proud to protect those who protect us. A leading provider of secure mobile communications, AI enabled cyber defence, and electronic deception technologies, our 300-strong highly experienced experts deliver advanced solutions tailored to the evolving demands of modern defence and security across the UK, Australia, and our allies.
Mercury EW are a veteran owned, managed and inclusive specialist Defence SME that have been providing EW as a Service (EWaaS) since 2009. Based in Lincolnshire and a key member of the Greater Lincolnshire Regional Defence Security Cluster (GLRDSC) and partners with the University of Lincoln, Mercury EW have continually grown yet remain an agile SME. They provide specialist Defence training (design, develop, deliver and manage), consultancy partnerships and provision of expertise for capability development from design to in service operation and management through their Field Service Representation (FSR) services. They specialise in EW, COMINT, ELINT, ISR and CEMA.
Higher, faster, further: Why SSPAs hold the key to high-speed communications at V-band and W-band
By Ashley Dove, Senior Advisor, Filtronic
As demand for high-speed data continues to grow, communications are moving into higher radio frequency (RF) bands to improve performance and escape congestion at lower frequencies. mmWave frequencies such as V-band and W-band offer the bandwidth and data capacity needed for modern communications applications – but require advanced enabling technologies to realise their potential.
In the mmWave frequency range, V-band (40-75GHz) and W-band (75-110GHz) are emerging as hotspots for expanding the possibilities of data communications. One of the critical enabling technologies required to support such high-frequency communications is solid state power amplifiers (SSPAs) – used to boost the power magnitude of signals for transmission over long distances.
SSPAs are compact, efficient, semiconductor-based devices that provide reliable RF power in smaller, lighter packages than traditional amplifiers. Advances in semiconductor technology are enabling SSPAs to move up into V-band and W-band frequencies – supporting the expansion of high data-rate, low-latency communications.
V-band and W-band: opportunities and limitations
The V-band and W-band segments of the electromagnetic spectrum offer significant potential for high-capacity wireless communications. V-band (40-75GHz) offers wide bandwidth availability, with broad contiguous allocations available from 500MHz to more than 5GHz.
W-band (75-110GHz) offers high data-rate throughput, especially at high altitudes or in space – supporting advanced applications like satellite feeder links and high-resolution radar. W-band offers even wider bandwidth availability than V-band. While signals at this frequency are still affected by atmospheric absorption, the effect does not increase as sharply as frequency increases. This allows longer-range links to be achieved with appropriate antenna gain and system design.
The wide spectrum availability in both V-band and W-band is attracting great interest from many sectors, for applications from 5G/6G non-terrestrial networks (NTN), satellite communications (SATCOM), lunar and deep-space Comms to radar and sensing systems.
Why SSPAs matter at higher frequencies
At mmWave, there are significant technical challenges associated with achieving the power, efficiency and linearity needed for effective communications. High power is hard to achieve because transistors don’t perform so well at these frequencies – meaning complex amplifier designs are required to produce strong signals. At these frequencies, amplifiers produce more heat and lose more energy, so keeping components cool and energy-efficient is another key challenge.
SSPAs have long been used to replace traditional travelling wave tube amplifiers (TWTAs) at lower frequencies, but recent developments in SSPA power capabilities mean they can now perform reliably at higher frequencies. TWTAs are well established, reliable and still widely used, but they are complex and time-consuming to manufacture. By contrast, SSPAs can be manufactured quickly and in high volumes, at dramatically lower cost than tube amplifiers. At Filtronic, we have now developed SSPAs capable of operating efficiently at mmWave while delivering the high powers only previously possible with TWTAs. This, along with the reduced size weight, improved longevity, reduced maintenance costs of SSPAs, makes them an attractive, low-cost alternative to TWTAs.
Filtronic has managed to achieve this outstanding performance because we design the device MMICs in-house and are thus not reliant on 3rd party supply of the devices needed for these designs.
Demand driven by satellite communications and 5G
Demand for high-capacity data connectivity is being driven by the satellite communications sector and the 5G backhaul market. The telecommunications backhaul market initially spearheaded the shift from microwave to mmWave frequencies, and Filtronic developed many of the mmWave solutions to support the transition to 5G. Satellite communications technology offers the capability to deliver seamless global connectivity. But as more satellite constellations are launched into orbit, satellite companies must seek out less crowded mmWave frequencies to achieve the necessary high-throughput, low-latency connections.
Semiconductor technology rises to the challenge
Advances in semiconductor technology are supporting the development of SSPAs for high-frequency applications. The semiconductor compound gallium arsenide (GaAs) has long been used in integrated circuits for its performance at higher frequencies. Now, in the push to meet even more demanding performance standards at mmWave, gallium nitride (GaN) has emerged as an alternative – offering even greater power and efficiency within a specific frequency range.
At frequencies between 6GHz and 40GHz, GaN already offers significantly greater power density than GaAs in the same sized device. At lower frequencies, GaN is around twice as efficient as GaAs. Now, these benefits are being extended into higher frequencies, with GaN starting to be deployed at E-band (60-90GHz). Filtronic has developed an SSPA operating at E-band based on GaAs semiconductors, and we are just about to launch V-band GaN amplifiers and a W-band GaAs amplifier.
International focus on mmWave opportunities
The ESA (European Space Agency), FCC (Federal Communications Commission) and ITU (International Telecommunication Union) are actively supporting the development of V-band and W-band technologies for the benefit of satellite communications, 5G networks and defence applications. The aim is to secure a future where high-speed connectivity is ubiquitous, enabling a host of increasingly advanced use cases.
Filtronic is working with ESA under its Advanced Research and Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) programme to develop mmWave products for satellite applications. This includes developing high-frequency sub-systems to support the move into mmWave for both feeder links and inter-satellite communications.
Creating SSPA technologies for next-generation communications
As V-band and W-band become more strategically important for the next generation of RF communications, Filtonic is leading the way in developing the key enabling technologies. We have already developed the Cerus range of SSPAs to provide unmatched power performance at V band (47.2-52.4GHz), at E-band (71-76GHz, 81-86GHz) and at W-band (92-96GHz, 102-114GHz) frequencies. As demand grows for ever-more bandwidth and data capacity, our SSPAs are set to play a central role in unlocking the full potential of V-band and W-band for multiple high-performance applications.
For more information about our range of mmWave components and solutions, please visit our website or speak to a member of our team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
You can explore our exciting Cerus range of SSPAs here.
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Durham, 26th August 2025 – Filtronic, a UK-based company that designs and manufactures high-frequency, high-reliability RF and mmWave transmit and receive solutions, today announced that it has secured its largest ever contract valued at £47.3m ($62.5m) with its long-standing customer, SpaceX, for the Starlink high-speed internet service.
The contract represents the first order for Filtronic’s next-generation Gallium Nitride (GaN) powered Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA) in E-Band frequency.
The new E-Band GaN SSPA solution delivers a significant step up in performance, offering higher output power, improved efficiency, and enhanced thermal management. These advantages are critical to applications in satellite communications and aerospace and defence applications, where system reliability and performance are paramount.
Crucially, the product will play a vital role in supporting the Starlink constellation, underlining the transformative potential of high-frequency SSPA technology in the ground segment of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) communications.
The successful development of this technology is a testament to Filtronic’s technical leadership in high-frequency and high-power mmWave systems. Filtronic’s engineering team successfully addressed the complex challenges of advanced packaging, thermal management, and high-frequency integration, enabling the delivery of a GaN E-Band SSPA solution that redefines performance expectations.
Filtronic’s SSPA products establish a new industry benchmark for size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) at mmWave frequencies.
Nat Edington, Chief Executive Officer of Filtronic, commented:
“Securing this record contract with SpaceX marks a significant milestone for Filtronic. It validates the strength of our engineering capability and demonstrates the transformative value of GaN E-Band SSPA technology. This achievement would not have been possible without the expertise and dedication of both the Filtronic and SpaceX teams, and we are proud to play a role in advancing connectivity for the Starlink constellation and the wider LEO ecosystem.”
This contract not only reflects Filtronic’s ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions today but also forms part of a multi-year growth strategy, positioning our GaN SSPA at the core of future developments across satellite communications, aerospace, and defence. It underscores Filtronic’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of RF innovation and highlights the company’s strategic focus on delivering next-generation solutions for the most demanding global communications and connectivity applications.
By Paul Clowes, Business Development Director, Filtronic
Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) and direct-to device (D2D) technologies offer the potential to overcome the digital divide by taking high-speed, low-latency data connectivity directly to remote and isolated parts of the world.
On a crowded planet a-buzz with constant data traffic, there remain large areas of the planet cut off from terrestrial communication networks. Successive generations of mobile communication technology have taken high-speed connectivity to the world’s most populated regions, and every-day life has come to depend on this ubiquitous connectivity. Yet the 5G goal of connecting every location on the planet remains elusive. In a world reliant on terrestrial mobile networks, a digital divide separates those with a broadband connection, whether fixed or mobile, from those without.
Out of reach: terrestrial network limitations
Earth-based communication networks can only reach so far. In remote or isolated regions, or in difficult terrain, the cost and physical challenges of installing telecommunications infrastructure are prohibitive. That leaves many people – especially in developing countries or rural communities – cut off from communication services, or with only low-speed connections.
Connectivity is important not just for improving communications and service access, but also for the multitude of applications that rely on internet-connected sensors and devices – from environmental and agricultural monitoring & control to automated industrial operations and smart home technologies. Connectivity is also critical in disaster-relief operations or conflict zones, where terrestrial networks may be destroyed.
What are NTNs and D2D technologies?
Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) combined with direct-to-device (D2D) communications provide the most viable way to connect the unconnected. NTNs are wireless communication systems that operate above the Earth’s surface. They include satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO) and geostationary orbit (GEO), as well as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), such as high-altitude pseudo-satellites (HAPS) and drones.
In combination with NTNs, direct-to-device (D2D) technology can enable appliances – from smartphones to IoT devices – to communicate directly with satellites or UAVs, without additional hardware or reliance on terrestrial infrastructure.
NTNs already support backhaul connectivity for 5G and other wireless networks in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is inadequate. Filtronic technologies have been pivotal in enabling these high-volume data pipes to be developed in mmWave frequency bands for satellite networks, building on our expertise in terrestrial mobile communications.
Rising to the challenge
There are considerable challenges associated with developing NTN-enabled D2D-networks. With a finite RF spectrum, sufficient bandwidth must be allocated for data transmission in non-terrestrial channels. For the Feeder link satellite communications are moving into a higher mmWave bands such as Q, V &E as the more commonly used C, Ku and Ka bands become congested. Moving into these higher frequency bands brings significant technical challenges, but is an area Filtronic has a strong track record. These higher frequency bands are vital to delivering broadband connectivity for the underserved areas and achieving Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC) required for real-time critical applications such as driverless vehicles.
Allocating radio frequencies and managing satellite orbit and access technologies is the responsibility of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). It has been actively developing standards for NTNs through its 3GPP initiative, focusing on adapting 5G and other technologies for satellite connectivity. This will be essential to ensure that the benefits of using mmWave frequencies seen in terrestrial applications can be replicated for non-terrestrial networks.
NTN and D2D systems will need to be fully interoperable with terrestrial network equipment and infrastructure and will require careful frequency coordination with the mobile operators to prevent interference with existing terrestrial services. As the role of NTNs to deliver greater connectivity grows, so the ecosystem of devices and ground-based infrastructure will need to keep pace. That will involve developing compatible devices, encouraging operator adoption, establishing supply chains and evolving national regulations in line with new capabilities, to ensure the full potential of NTNs is realised.
Unlocking future possibilities
The most worthwhile immediate impact of developing NTN and D2D capabilities will be to bring vital connectivity to isolated communities and regions in crisis. Beyond this essential humanitarian goal, the connectivity delivered will bring significant speed and capacity improvements to enable exciting future possibilities.
NTNs, working in tandem with terrestrial networks, could enable major advances in operational efficiency, service quality and resilience for multiple industrial, commercial and public-safety applications and enterprises.
Delivering the promise of 6G will depend on ultra-reliable, high-frequency communications to achieve next-generation standards of speed, performance and capacity. All current visions for 6G involve using NTNs as a key enabler, opening the door to new applications such as remote surgery and augmented reality services.
NTNs could also turn up the dial on the Internet of Things, taking us into the realm of the Internet of Everything – where every object, system or entity on Earth can be monitored, tracked and optimised. All of these future possibilities rely on uninterrupted access to high-speed, high-volume data, every second of every day.
Building 5G connections via satellite
Filtronic is now supporting the European Space Agency and Viasat in a project to deploy non-terrestrial network LEO D2D systems across Europe and beyond, drawing on our expertise in high-power RF and mmWave technology.
The project partners are working to design and procure an open-architecture LEO network capable of delivering 5G non-terrestrial services directly to handheld devices. We are helping to define the optimal feeder link requirements for high-throughput uplink and downlink transmissions, and to develop the high-power RF solutions necessary for this new D2D network.
Look to the skies for next-generation connectivity
As demand for seamless, global broadband access grows, NTNs and D2D technologies – supported by advanced mmWave systems – will play a vital role in taking high-capacity, low-latency communications to every corner of the globe. If we are to breach the digital divide and bring data connectivity to those outside the reach of terrestrial networks, we must continue to look beyond the Earth and embrace the opportunities of networks in the sky.
Unlock the potential of the RF high-performance experts, talk to Filtronic today to see how we can advance your NTN and D2D projects.
For more information about Filtronic’s range of components and solutions, visit the website here. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
Explore our full range of mmWave solutions – contact Filtronic now to learn more.
By Mark Whetton, Business Development Director, Filtronic
Building and growing sovereign defence capabilities is critical to the future security of the UK. Against a backdrop of growing global tensions, shifting geopolitical alliances and emerging technological threats, Filtronic is helping the UK develop its essential home-grown defence systems.
The threats we face today are more unpredictable and serious than at any time since the Cold War, with the Ukraine conflict, growing Russian aggression, unrest in the Middle East and new nuclear risks in the world, alongside daily cyber-attacks at home. The UK government wants to move the country to a state of war-fighting readiness, recognising that technology is key to gaining the upper hand in modern warfare.
In an era of volatile global relationships, the UK must work towards gaining technological sovereignty in its defence systems, minimising reliance on foreign supply chains that might be disrupted by conflicts or changing allegiances.
The critical role of RF in modern defence systems
Many modern defence systems rely on radio frequency (RF) technologies to deliver high-performance, secure and powerful communications. Advanced RF hardware is deployed in all conflict domains from land, sea and air to near-space environments.
For battlefield radio communications, RF technology delivers secure, resilient and real-time connectivity across vast distances in hostile environments. In radar and sensing systems, RF enables precision detection, tracking and targeting. In the growing field of electronic warfare, defence forces use the RF spectrum for electronic countermeasures, protection and attack. The increasing use of drones and other unmanned aircraft for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) similarly relies on resilient connectivity provided by advanced RF systems.
To increase the reliability, security and performance of RF systems in military applications, defence technologies have been moving up the frequency spectrum to use higher mmWave bandwidths. These bandwidths not only offer greater data rates but also more directional signals that are harder to intercept. Such LPI/LPD (low probability of intercept/detection) functions are critical in a war zone, where unreliable or intercepted signals could have devastating consequences. Already, high-power mmWave technologies are being used across radar, electronic warfare and secure communications.
Gallium nitride (GaN) MMICs are also being used to boost power and efficiency in RF defence systems. For military radar, jammers and electronic countermeasure systems, greater power means greater range, enabling a wider area to be covered by a single asset and allowing operatives to be located further away from danger.
Sovereign RF technology design and manufacture
Given the importance of RF technology for future defence systems, it’s vital that the UK has sovereign development and manufacturing capabilities. Filtronic provides that UK-based expertise and resource. We are the leading UK supplier of advanced RF components, from complex filters to integrated transmit-and-receive modules (TRMs), for today’s sophisticated defence systems.
We have a proud heritage in the defence sector since our inception in 1977, supplying advanced filters for electronic countermeasure systems on military aircraft. Since then, we have continued to collaborate and innovate with the defence industry, developing increasingly advanced RF solutions for surveillance, protection and communication.
Our vertically integrated structure means that every stage of the process, from initial design and MMIC development through to manufacturing, assembly and testing, is conducted within our own security-cleared facilities – all located in the UK.
At higher frequencies, it becomes increasingly difficult to manufacture devices consistently at scale. Very few companies can produce large volumes of these complex systems at high yields with minimal wastage. Our manufacturing capabilities allow us to rapidly develop such products from early Technology Readiness Level (TRL) prototypes through to high-volume production in the same UK facility. It means we can help our defence clients deploy game-changing new mmWave systems at speed and scale.
Trusted to perform on the frontline
Filtronic RF technologies have been proven time and again to perform reliably in the most challenging real-world conditions. Among the technologies we have deployed for the defence sector are switched filter banks, which combine switches and filters in a single compact module – reducing power consumption and enhancing reliability.
We have pioneered plastic packaging for high-power semiconductor devices, such as TRMs. These robust encapsulation systems help to optimise the size, weight, power and cost (SWAP-C) of high-density packaging for radar systems. We also offer a box-build service, enabling us to provide customised communications-equipment housings that can be manufactured at scale.
As more communications applications look to space to provide ubiquitous connectivity, Filtronic is helping the defence industry capitalise on these opportunities. By developing space-compatible RF systems for ground and payload applications, we’re helping the UK build resilient military communications networks and maintain powerful surveillance and monitoring capabilities.
For a sector where performance and reliability are paramount, we conduct exacting in-house testing on all mission-critical systems. Tests include rigorous environmental and stress testing in arduous conditions, thermal testing and electrical testing up to 175GHz. All our complex products can be tested to MIL-STD-883 and MIL-STD-750 to provide the quality assurances demanded by the sector.
Working together for future UK security
Rising to the challenges of global unrest, geopolitical uncertainty and new technological threats requires ongoing collaboration between government, the defence industry, businesses and technology leaders within the UK.
Filtronic has been an active partner and innovation leader in the UK defence sector for almost half a century. Our long track record of collaboration and problem-solving includes working with national defence ministries and departments, including DSTL and DASA, defence research associations and major defence primes, such as BAE Systems, Airbus, QinetiQ and Leonardo.
We have led advances in higher frequency applications, moving systems up into the mmWave spectrum, and will continue to push the boundaries of RF technology to ensure the UK defence sector is powerfully equipped for the modern age.
To support the UK in this new era for defence, Filtronic build relationships and collaborate with organisations throughout the sector to ensure the UK continues to stay one-step ahead of its adversaries.
Unlock the potential of the leading Sovereign supplier of high-performance RF. Get in touch with our experts to discover how Filtronic’s innovative solutions can meet your specific needs.
For more information about Filtronic’s range of components and solutions, visit the website here. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
Explore our full range of mmWave solutions – contact Filtronic now to learn more.
