By Dan Rhodes, Director of Business Development, Filtronic
Without high-frequency mmWave Radio Frequency (RF) technology, the modern world would be dramatically different. This change would reverberate across various sectors, shaping a world devoid of essential technologies that we often take for granted. Here Dan Rhodes, Business Development Director at designer and manufacturer of RF-to-mmWave components and subsystems, Filtronic, explores how the absence of mmWave technologies would impact key advancements, not only in daily life but across essential sectors too.
The use of high-frequency RF in our modern digital world is essential today, and will become even more central in the future. It expands the data capacity that we consume and satisfies our voracious appetite for more. Without the essential components and subsystems of the mmWave spectrum the technologies of the future would stay the stuff of science fiction.
Thankfully, mmWave technology is helping to expand possibilities and push performance boundaries ever higher. mmWave refers to radio frequencies in the electromagnetic spectrum ranging from 30 GHz to 300 GHz, further characterised by their short wavelengths — one to ten millimetres — allowing them to carry large amounts of data.
Without it, network capacity would be significantly limited, affecting our ability to use data-intensive applications, things we take for granted today. Think crowded areas, where many people are accessing services like video streaming, as we move into an era of even higher data consumption and connectivity demands.
Industry limitations
The processing power and computing capabilities driving the the network are dependent on high-frequency connections provided by mmWave technology. If these connections are not available, data transfer becomes slower due to narrower data pipes, impacting not only which architecture can be configured but also what can be achieved on the networks for business and commercial use.
For instance, in satellite communications, mmWave technology is essential for deploying large networks, particularly in low-Earth orbit. These networks rely on high frequencies to establish substantial data links, known as feeder or gateway links, between satellites and ground stations.
The bandwidth would be insufficient if only lower microwave frequencies were used, leading to limited speed and capacity. In short, this would hinder the ability to provide high-speed internet to users in remote locations.
Meanwhile, the telecommunications sector also requires mmWave for areas where fibre optic cables are either not available or too expensive to deploy. Fibre can’t always be laid, for example across rivers, motorways, mountainous regions or in densely populated urban areas, without significant disruption. In such cases, wireless links between base stations and the core network are necessary, especially when implementing 5G services.
For radar systems in defence, higher frequencies are needed to accurately detect and track small objects, as well as establishing secure communication channels with narrow beams that are difficult to detect.
Similarly, missile seekers use high frequencies to lock onto targets with precision, relying on directed mmWave beams to reduce detection and interception chances. In these applications, the absence of mmWave would limit the effectiveness of military systems, making it a crucial component in defence.
Requirements for future advancements
It’s not just in sector-specific applications that higher frequencies are needed. To support advancements in fields like AI, autonomous vehicles and the Internet of Things (IoT), mmWave is used, for instance, in sensors for gesture control systems. These rely on higher frequencies to detect motion with precision over both long and short distances.
Plus, secure private networks benefit from such technology too, because these applications demand low latency and high-frequency options to operate effectively. Companies like Filtronic actively work on integrating mmWave technology to meet these requirements.
In fact, a significant development in Filtronic’s mmWave technology involves the use of high power, solid state amplifiers (SSPAs). Traditionally, the compound semiconductor gallium arsenide (GaAs) has been used within mmWave SSPAs due to its long history and established performance. However, even at higher frequencies, such as those above 40 GHz, gallium nitride (GaN) is now becoming more prevalent.
GaN offers better power density and efficiency, allowing for more power output from the same surface area, to not only help in making devices more compact, but also extending the range of signal transmission.
This move comes as the goals for the next phase of 5G and future 6G include achieving wireless XHaul data rates of 100 gigabits per second. Currently, the highest capacity XHaul links operate at around 25 gigabits per second.
To reach 100 gigabits per second, multiple mmWave channels are needed, where we will likely see the aggregation of different frequency bands, such as E-band, W-band, D-band and beyond, to achieve the required bandwidth.
Achieving these goals is challenging and requires meticulous management of manufacturing processes, as well as vertical integration of design, manufacturing and testing.
Technology is becoming more complex, and industries are increasingly dependent on data, so it’s essential to maintain reliability as well as performance when we move towards higher frequencies for applications that we might just take for granted.
~ Supplying advanced filter and diplexer assemblies for Eutelsat OneWeb Satellites’ payload systems ~
Built by Airbus in Toulouse, these satellites will contribute to Eutelsat OneWeb’s mission of delivering global broadband connectivity. Eutelsat OneWeb, formed in 2023 through the merger of Eutelsat Communications and OneWeb, is the world’s first fully integrated satellite operator combining geostationary orbit (GEO) and LEO satellite technologies.
This next phase of satellite production builds on the legacy of the Airbus-OneWeb collaboration, which has already delivered more than 600 satellites to orbit as part of the OneWeb constellation.
Filtronic’s role in this programme involves the design, development and qualification of the filter and diplexer assemblies, which will be integrated into the payloads of the new satellites.
The new assemblies are engineered to meet the rigorous requirements of the space environment, ensuring performance and reliability for a wide range of communication applications.
“This project aligns with our strategy to expand capabilities in the space sector, and highlights our considerable sector credentials.” said Nat Edington, Chief Executive Officer at Filtronic. “Filtronic is already a technology leader in ground-based satellite communications systems, and this contract reflects our expanding reach into satellite payload systems.”
Drawing on its experience in high-volume precision manufacturing, Filtronic will produce the assemblies in-house at its advanced facilities in the North East of England, maintaining the high standards required for space applications.
The company will also oversee the qualification process to ensure compliance with space environment specifications.
For more information about Filtronic’s range of components and solutions for space applications, visit the website here. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
~ Core Filtronic technology strengthens European SatCom with advanced feeder link technology ~
This initiative follows a landmark agreement between ESA Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications, Laurent Jaffart, and Viasat Chairman and CEO, Mark Dankberg, who met in Brussels in January 2025 to accelerate the deployment of Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) LEO D2D systems across Europe and beyond.
Under ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES 4.0), a programme that stimulates research and development within ESA’s Connectivity and Secure Communications directorate, Viasat and its European partners, including Filtronic, are working towards the design and procurement of an Open Architecture LEO network capable of delivering 5G non-terrestrial services directly to handheld devices.
Filtronic’s contribution includes advanced feeder link technology for both satellite payloads and ground stations. These feeder links enable high-throughput satellite communications, support both uplink (Earth-to-satellite) and downlink (satellite-to-Earth) transmissions. Filtronics expertise in high- solid state power amplifiers will also be instrumental in enabling high data rate feeder links.
This work builds on Filtronic’s involvement in the ESA ARTES-funded project initiated in 2023, with additional support from the UK Space Agency, a sponsor of both the ARTES programme and Filtronic’s participation in the D2D framework.
“Filtronic is proud to contribute our expertise in high-power RF technology to this groundbreaking project,” said Nat Edington, CEO of Filtronic. “As demand for seamless, global connectivity grows, our advanced mmWave solutions will play a vital role in enabling high-capacity, non-terrestrial networks. We are excited to work alongside Viasat and ESA to shape the future of space-based communications.”
“The UK’s leadership in space technology is strengthened by strategic partnerships such as this one,” added Rebecca Irving, at the UK Space Agency. “Supporting European industry through the direct-to-device initiative under ESA’s ARTES programme ensures that we remain at the forefront of satellite communications. Filtronic’s expertise in high-power RF and mmWave technology is a key enabler of this next-generation connectivity, reinforcing Europe’s role in shaping the future of global telecommunications.”
“We are delighted to be joined by Filtronic in this important pan-European initiative with ESA to develop D2D space capabilities that are based on 3GPP and other relevant open standards, which will combine existing GEO assets with a new LEO satellite constellation that meets the needs of users in Europe and across the world,” explained Dankberg, Chairman and CEO of Viasat, Inc.
“We will be deploying our expertise alongside a host of European partner companies in this important work. We believe that this is a further step toward ensuring that space remains open and accessible to all.”
“With the expertise of key industry partners such as Filtronic, we are showcasing our commitment to developing the future-facing technologies that will drive the competitiveness of ESA Member States,” said Laurent Jaffart, Director of ESA’s Connectivity and Secure Communications.
By bringing its expertise in high-power RF technology to this ambitious programme, Filtronic is helping to shape the future of satellite communications, ensuring that the next generation of space-based connectivity is robust, high-capacity, and accessible to users worldwide.
For more information about Filtronic’s range of components and solutions for telecommunications applications, visit the website here. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the team on +44 (0)1740 618 800.
By Laurence Scullion, Director of Production Engineering, Filtronic
To achieve the government’s industrial strategy ambitions for sustainable growth and global competitiveness, it is essential to prioritise complex industries such as high-performance mmWave technology and high-value manufacturing. Focusing on markets where UK innovators excel with world-leading capabilities will be crucial in driving global competitive advantage.
The UK’s modern industrial strategy sets out the government’s aims to build on the country’s strengths in research, innovation, trade and creativity to secure sustainable economic growth and position the UK as a global leader in emerging industries.
Key to achieving the ambitions of the industrial strategy is developing the advanced communications and computing technologies required to power new innovations. The UK can play a leading role by leveraging its technological expertise and investing in high-value manufacturing to produce the specialised components and systems demanded by global markets.
At the heart of this transformation is the rise of Industry 4.0, which is driving the adoption of AI, automation, and smart manufacturing. Modern industries rely on seamless, high-frequency connectivity to enable real-time data exchange, industrial IoT, and autonomous production lines. As a radio frequency (RF) pioneer, Filtronic is working on transformational technologies and developing the precision, niche manufacturing capabilities needed to support the delivery of the UK’s industrial strategy goals.
How Filtronic is supporting the UK’s industrial ambitions:
1. Driving innovation and research
The UK’s target is to increase research and development investment to 2.4% of GDP. Filtronic share this vision and invest heavily in innovation in all its forms including product, process and operations.
The industrial strategy advocates greater partnership between academia, industry and government. Similarly, Filtronic are actively engaged with academic partners in developing cutting-edge RF and millimetre-wave (mmWave) systems critical for the roll-out and expansion of 5G and 6G networks, satellite communications and emerging quantum technologies.
There is now a strong research and development ecosystem in the UK, including more than 140 science parks and nine research and technology catapults across the country. Filtronic is actively working with the ‘satellite applications’ and ‘high-value manufacturing’ catapults, to explore the opportunities for space technologies and develop advanced manufacturing techniques to boost performance and productivity.
2. Building telecommunications and digital infrastructure
The UK industrial strategy includes a commitment to rolling out 5G mobile networks, providing the high-speed, reliable, ultra-low latency wireless connections required by modern industries and applications. Underpinning 5G networks are mmWave technologies that enable high-frequency, high-bandwidth communication in a crowded frequency spectrum. Filtronic is at the forefront of developing these ultra-high capacity mmWave sub-systems for 5G networks.
Looking to the future, mmWave and terahertz (THz) frequencies will be at the heart of developing 6G networks, supporting the UK’s vision for future mobility and data connectivity. Such systems are also required for quantum technologies, which are a strategic priority for the UK, including quantum sensing, communication and computing systems.
3. Growing global competitiveness
Developing and manufacturing advanced technologies in the UK is key to improving our competitiveness in the global marketplace. Filtronic is part of the north-east and Yorkshire space clusters, working with complementary companies to position the UK as a hub for space technology. Our mmWave solutions for space are already enabling the rapid expansion of satellite communication networks.
By developing world-class communications products in the UK, we are helping to strengthen the country’s export potential. Increasing exports of specialised technologies will support economic growth and help to meet the government’s international trade objectives.
4. Sovereign defence and security
In a dynamic and often unpredictable geopolitical climate, the UK must continue to reinforce its sovereign defence capabilities. The RF and mmWave systems developed by Filtronic are essential components in secure communication networks, radar and electronic warfare systems. These systems deliver strategically important defence capabilities for the UK, as well supporting jobs and investment in the defence sector.
5. Developing workforce skills
The UK government has long recognised the importance of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education for the future competitiveness of the UK economy. Building and maintaining a workforce with a wide range of STEM skills will enable the UK to continue researching, designing and manufacturing the advanced systems and technologies necessary to keep pace with global developments.
Filtronic is working hard to attract, train and retain engineers and technical specialists in RF and mmWave systems. Only with such a highly skilled workforce will we, and other UK engineering firms, be able to meet global demand for innovation across multiple industries.
6. Levelling up regional economies
There is huge untapped potential in regions throughout the UK, beyond the commercial centres of London and the south-east. Already, many regions are competing internationally in industries ranging from fintech and aerospace to creative services and renewable energy.
From our base in north-east England, Filtronic is working with other businesses and academics to create a regional hub for high-value manufacturing, and advanced RF technologies.
Shaping up for the future
As the UK navigates its position in the evolving global industrial landscape, businesses like Filtronic—driven by research, innovation, and leading-edge technology development—are key to securing the country’s future growth and competitiveness. Filtronic’s advanced manufacturing techniques enable the cost-effective, reliable, and cutting-edge production of microwave and millimetre-wave solutions, meeting the demands of large-scale Defence and Space projects without compromising on performance or quality.
As technologies continue to advance and new applications are devised, the need for fast, reliable, instant access to data will mean ever more sophisticated communication systems are needed to support them. By continuously enhancing our capabilities in mmWave technology and high-value manufacturing, Filtronic can help to position the UK as a world leader in these essential components for future industries.
To find out more about how we can help solve your mmWave challenges, contact us at [email protected].
Paul brings over 30 years of experience in telecoms and wireless infrastructure, having worked with leading vendors, mobile operators and system integrators across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
Most recently, Paul was Sales Director at Global Invacom Group, an independent provider of satellite ground network equipment, where he led sales and business development of very small aperture terminal (VSAT) systems across Europe and the Middle East.
There, he also worked closely with satellite operators, distributors and system integrators to develop terminal solutions for Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations.
At Filtronic, Paul will focus on strengthening the company’s position in the ground station market and expanding its reach in high-frequency communications. His extensive industry network and expertise in telecom and satellite infrastructure will be key in developing new partnerships and enhancing Filtronic’s role in next-generation connectivity solutions.
“Paul’s appointment comes at an exciting time for Filtronic as we aim to expand our footprint in the satellite communications and ground station markets,” said Antonino Spatola, CCO of Filtronic. “His proven track record in telecoms and satcom will help Filtronic continue it’s growth story.”
“Joining Filtronic at this exciting time is a great opportunity,” said Paul Clowes. “I’m excited to use my experience in telecoms and satellite communications to build strong partnerships and help develop innovative, high-frequency solutions that will support global connectivity.”
Filtronic designs and manufactures advanced RF, microwave, and mmWave sub-systems for aerospace & defence, space, telecommunications and critical communications.
For more information about Filtronic’s products, visit the website here. Alternatively, speak to a member of the team at +44 (0)1740 618 800.
by Mark Whetton, Director of Business Development, Filtronic
The demand for fast, reliable access to data worldwide is growing at exponential rates, as high-speed data transmission becomes increasingly critical to the systems and services we rely on every day.
Satellite communications technology offers the capacity and capability to fulfil demand for higher data rates and seamless global connectivity. But as more and more satellite constellations are launched into low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), satellite companies need to find the optimum frequency ranges to enable powerful, fast, low-latency data communications in increasingly crowded channels.
Exploring uncharted frequency bands
At Filtronic, we recognise that mmWave frequency bands offer the scope to support current and next-generation communications requirements. We have already established our expertise in 71-86 GHz transmit and receive technologies, supporting ambitious satellite programmes for leading-edge companies like SpaceX.
But given the huge growth in satellite traffic, satellite companies need to consider moving into other, under-utilised mmWave bands, such as Q (33-50 GHz), V (40-75 GHz) and W (75-110 GHz). These bands provide significantly greater bandwidth than the C, Ku and Ka bands traditionally used in satellite communications, enabling higher data throughput and enhanced spectral efficiency.
Congestion in the traditional frequency spectrum
After years of satellite proliferation, C, Ku and Ka bands are becoming congested. Satellite data traffic needs to move into higher frequency mmWave bands that have not yet been widely exploited. These offer wide-open areas of uninterrupted bandwidth to support smooth and interference-free data transmission.
Moving into these lesser-used frequency bands gives satellite companies the opportunity to establish high-quality, ultra-fast, reliable communications channels. mmWave frequencies are ideally suited for feeder links, enabling high-speed data exchange between satellites and ground stations, as well as for relaying data between satellites within constellations.
Accommodating data-hungry new applications
Demand for data is being driven by the increasing range and reach of applications that depend on high-speed data communications. From wireless broadband to remote sensing technologies, navigation systems to private enterprise networks, so many facets of today’s economy, society and infrastructure rely on instant data connectivity. As we move towards 6G networks, mmWave-frequency bands will become even more critical to achieving next-generation wireless telecommunications standards.
By moving into new mmWave bands, satellite communications will be able to support a range of emerging technologies that could unlock new possibilities for industry, healthcare, transport and agriculture. Many of these innovations require seamless connectivity with Internet of Things (IoT) hardware, including remote sensors and devices used in environmental monitoring, smart agriculture, disaster recovery operations, smart electricity grids and supply chain management systems.
Ultra-high-speed, low-latency data communications could also support autonomous vehicle networks and telemedicine applications – potentially enabling remote surgical procedures to be carried out by surgeons anywhere in the world. Looking beyond the Earth-bound possibilities, space agencies including ESA and NASA are exploring the use of mmWave technologies for future deep-space missions.
Advances in mmWave technology
Having developed proven systems for satellite communications at 71-86GHz, Filtronic is already developing reliable technologies for Q (33-50 GHz) and V (40-75 GHz) mmWave bands. Our advanced devices are used in both satellite ground stations, where they transmit and receive data between the Earth and orbiting satellites, and in satellite payloads, where they are designed to perform reliably in the harsh conditions of space.
We have mmWave technologies capable of communicating with and between LEO and MEO satellites, as well as satellites in geostationary orbit (GEO) more than 35,000km above the Earth.
New frontiers for data communications
When it comes to enabling current and future communications activities, mmWave frequency bands have a leading role to play in transforming satellite communications to deliver higher data rates, reduced latency and greater spectral efficiency.
As innovators such as Filtronic continue to develop advanced solutions for higher mmWave communications, satellite companies have a stellar opportunity to extend global connectivity and enable transformational new applications that could change the world.
To find out more about how we can help solve your mmWave challenges in Space, contact us at [email protected].
Filtronic, the leader in advanced RF and mmWave solutions, is pleased to announce two key appointments to its leadership team. David Marshall joins the company as Director of Programmes, while Sarah Shaw has been appointed as General Counsel. These appointments follow the recent announcement of Antonino Spatola as Filtronic’s Chief Commercial Officer, bringing extensive market experience to the top team, as the business continues its rapid growth.
David Marshall, as Director of Programmes, will oversee Filtronic’s portfolio of critical programmes, driving strategic execution and supporting the company’s expanding customer base in sectors such as Defence and Space. Prior to joining Filtronic, Marshall was at Leonardo, where he was most recently Vice President, Typhoon Radar Development.
Sarah Shaw, the newly appointed General Counsel (GC), will oversee all legal affairs for the company, and have key responsibility for new commercial contracts with Filtronic’s major customers. As a commercially focused GC, Shaw has a significant track record of complex commercial deals and joins from Teledyne.
“We are thrilled to welcome David and Sarah to our leadership team,” said Nat Edington, CEO of Filtronic. “Their diverse backgrounds and industry expertise will be invaluable as we scale the business to the next level. Alongside Antonino Spatola, our new leadership appointments position Filtronic for continued growth and long-term success. We’re looking ahead to an exciting year, and we’re confident that our new leadership team members, and every member of our talented, award-winning team, will play a key role in helping us achieve our goals for 2025 and beyond.
Filtronic is a leading supplier of RF, microwave and mmWave components for mission-critical communication networks. For more information about Filtronic and its products, visit the website here. Alternatively, speak to a member of the team at +44 (0)1740 618 800.
Antonino brings over 20 years of experience in commercial leadership, business development, and strategic growth within technology sectors, most notably the Space and Defence markets. His extensive expertise in building high-performance teams and establishing long-term customer relationships will be instrumental in accelerating Filtronic’s continued innovation and commercial success.
“Antonino’s appointment represents a key milestone as Filtronic continues to enhance its position as a leader in the high-frequency RF market,” said Nat Edington, CEO of Filtronic. “His proven track record of delivering sustained revenue growth and leading successful commercial strategies aligns perfectly with our ambitious plans for the future. We are confident that Antonino will play a pivotal role in taking our business to new heights and delivering exceptional value to our customers.”
Before joining Filtronic, Antonino held senior commercial roles at market leaders such as Teledyne E2V and Leonardo, where he was responsible for shaping market strategies, managing complex customer relationships, and overseeing the launch of cutting-edge products and solutions. His deep understanding of market dynamics and customer needs, coupled with a customer-first approach, positions him to deliver significant impact for Filtronic’s stakeholders.
“I’m thrilled to join Filtronic at such an exciting time,” said Antonino Spatola. “The company has a fantastic reputation for innovation, and I look forward to working alongside the talented team to build on this success and drive further growth in our target markets. Our focus is to continue delivering cutting-edge solutions that not only meet but exceed the ever-evolving expectations of our customers globally.”
For more information about Filtronic and its products, visit the website here. Alternatively, speak to a member of the team at +44 (0)1740 618 800.
by Dan Rhodes, Director of Business Development, Filtronic
Without high-frequency mmWave Radio Frequency (RF) technology, the modern world would be dramatically different. This change would reverberate across various sectors, shaping a world devoid of essential technologies that we often take for granted. Here Dan Rhodes, Business Development Director at designer and manufacturer of RF-to-mmWave components and subsystems, Filtronic, explores how the absence of mmWave technologies would impact key advancements, not only in daily life but across essential sectors too.
The use of high-frequency RF in our modern digital world is essential today, and will become even more central in the future. It expands the data capacity that we consume and satisfies our voracious appetite for more. Without the essential components and subsystems of the mmWave spectrum the technologies of the future would stay the stuff of science fiction.
Thankfully, mmWave technology is helping to expand possibilities and push performance boundaries ever higher. mmWave refers to radio frequencies in the electromagnetic spectrum ranging from 30 GHz to 300 GHz, further characterised by their short wavelengths — one to ten millimetres — allowing them to carry large amounts of data.
Without it, network capacity would be significantly limited, affecting our ability to use data-intensive applications, things we take for granted today. Think crowded areas, where many people are accessing services like video streaming, as we move into an era of even higher data consumption and connectivity demands.
Industry limitations
The processing power and computing capabilities driving the the network are dependent on high-frequency connections provided by mmWave technology. If these connections are not available, data transfer becomes slower due to narrower data pipes, impacting not only which architecture can be configured but also what can be achieved on the networks for business and commercial use.
For instance, in satellite communications, mmWave technology is essential for deploying large networks, particularly in low-Earth orbit. These networks rely on high frequencies to establish substantial data links, known as feeder or gateway links, between satellites and ground stations.
The bandwidth would be insufficient if only lower microwave frequencies were used, leading to limited speed and capacity. In short, this would hinder the ability to provide high-speed internet to users in remote locations.
Meanwhile, the telecommunications sector also requires mmWave for areas where fibre optic cables are either not available or too expensive to deploy. Fibre can’t always be laid, for example across rivers, motorways, mountainous regions or in densely populated urban areas, without significant disruption. In such cases, wireless links between base stations and the core network are necessary, especially when implementing 5G services.
For radar systems in defence, higher frequencies are needed to accurately detect and track small objects, as well as establishing secure communication channels with narrow beams that are difficult to detect.
Similarly, missile seekers use high frequencies to lock onto targets with precision, relying on directed mmWave beams to reduce detection and interception chances. In these applications, the absence of mmWave would limit the effectiveness of military systems, making it a crucial component in defence.
Requirements for future advancements
It’s not just in sector-specific applications that higher frequencies are needed. To support advancements in fields like AI, autonomous vehicles and the Internet of Things (IoT), mmWave is used, for instance, in sensors for gesture control systems. These rely on higher frequencies to detect motion with precision over both long and short distances.
Plus, secure private networks benefit from such technology too, because these applications demand low latency and high-frequency options to operate effectively. Companies like Filtronic actively work on integrating mmWave technology to meet these requirements.
In fact, a significant development in Filtronic’s mmWave technology involves the use of high power, solid state amplifiers (SSPAs). Traditionally, the compound semiconductor gallium arsenide (GaAs) has been used within mmWave SSPAs due to its long history and established performance. However, even at higher frequencies, such as those above 40 GHz, gallium nitride (GaN) is now becoming more prevalent.
GaN offers better power density and efficiency, allowing for more power output from the same surface area, to not only help in making devices more compact, but also extending the range of signal transmission.
This move comes as the goals for the next phase of 5G and future 6G include achieving wireless XHaul data rates of 100 gigabits per second. Currently, the highest capacity XHaul links operate at around 25 gigabits per second.
To reach 100 gigabits per second, multiple mmWave channels are needed, where we will likely see the aggregation of different frequency bands, such as E-band, W-band, D-band and beyond, to achieve the required bandwidth.
Achieving these goals is challenging and requires meticulous management of manufacturing processes, as well as vertical integration of design, manufacturing and testing.
Technology is becoming more complex, and industries are increasingly dependent on data, so it’s essential to maintain reliability as well as performance when we move towards higher frequencies for applications that we might just take for granted.
by Jerry Sanham, Director of Business Development, Filtronic
While offering undeniable economic advantages, global interdependence presents growing concerns for nations reliant on external sources for critical technologies. A robust sovereign supply chain for the defence industry is no longer just an option, but a must. Here, Jerry Sanham, Business Development Director at Microwave and mmWave subsystem manufacturer Filtronic, explores how building a domestic ecosystem for key defence technologies fosters long-term resilience, mitigates geopolitical vulnerabilities and unlocks the potential for technological advancements within the sector.
Microwave and mmWave technology is experiencing rapid advancements, with new applications constantly emerging across various industries. In defence, these technologies play a crucial role in radar systems, electronic warfare and secure communications. For example, advanced phased array radars utilising mmWave frequencies designed for use in missile seekers offer improved resolution and target detection capabilities. Similarly, RF technologies enable sophisticated jamming and counter-jamming systems, critical for maintaining tactical advantage in contested environments.
Innovation in these fields often involves pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with electromagnetic spectrum manipulation. This might include developing more efficient power amplifiers for extended range communications, creating more sensitive receivers for improved signal detection or designing novel antenna arrays for enhanced beam-forming capabilities. Each of these advancements requires deep expertise and cutting-edge manufacturing processes, which are typically found in specialised companies at the forefront of Microwave and mmWave technology.
Collaborating with partners who will change the dial on operations is crucial. It’s not about maintaining the status quo; it’s about evolution and continuous improvement. Companies must find partners that are committed to innovation and are capable of driving significant improvements. This means looking for entities that are not only adept at current technologies but are also pioneers in developing next-generation solutions — such partnerships enable businesses to remain competitive and resilient.
For example, in mmWave technology, partners might be working on developing more efficient and compact power amplifiers that can operate at higher frequencies. This could involve exploring new semiconductor materials or novel circuit designs to overcome the challenges of signal attenuation and power efficiency at these frequencies. In the Microwave domain, innovation might focus on creating more versatile software-defined radios that can adapt to various communication protocols and frequency bands, enhancing interoperability in multi-national defence operations.
By aligning with forward-thinking partners, companies can ensure they are not merely adapting to changes, but are actively shaping the future of their industry. This proactive stance is essential in the defence sector, where technological advantage can provide a critical edge.
However, the strength of a company is intrinsically linked to the robustness of its supply chain and the SMEs within it — a sovereign supply chain is only as strong as the SMEs that form its backbone. These SMEs provide the agility and specialised capabilities that larger entities might lack.
By fostering a network of resilient and innovative SMEs, the overall supply chain becomes more adaptable and capable of withstanding various disruptions, whether geopolitical, economic or technological. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining continuous progress and stability in the supply chain.
Moreover, SMEs often serve as incubators for new ideas and technologies. Their smaller size and focused approach allow them to take risks and explore novel concepts that might be deemed too speculative for larger corporations. This entrepreneurial spirit is vital for driving innovation, where breakthroughs often come from unconventional approaches to longstanding challenges.
SMEs working on defence programmes often hold contracts which require them to safeguard security classified assets. A Facility Security Clearance (FSC) is required to ensure the Supplier meets and maintains the required protective security controls to safeguard these classified assets.
JOSCAR (Joint Supply Chain Accreditation Register) is a collaborative tool used by the aerospace, defence and security industry to act as a single repository for pre-qualification and compliance data. Defence purchasers use JOSCAR to determine if a supplier is “fit for business”. The JOSCAR Registration Mark is valued by some of the largest purchasers such as BAE Systems, Leonardo UK, Raytheon UK, Thales and The UK Ministry of Defence to name but a few.
Furthermore, working with certified facilities provides assurance that the entire supply chain — from raw materials to finished products — is secure and fully traceable. This is particularly important for Microwave and mmWave components, where the performance and reliability of each element can have significant implications for the overall system. Certified manufacturers must maintain full traceability and detailed records of their processes, materials and quality control measures, allowing for comprehensive audits and ensuring that any issues can be quickly identified and addressed.
The trilateral partnership between Australia, the UK and the US (AUKUS) further underscores the importance of a coordinated approach to defence supply chains. By leveraging the combined strengths and resources of these nations, a more secure and efficient supply chain can be developed. Each country brings unique capabilities and expertise to the table.
By working together, these countries can enhance their collective resilience and technological capabilities, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of defence innovations. This collaboration allows for the sharing of best practices, joint research initiatives and the development of interoperable systems. For example, the partnership could lead to the creation of advanced, multi-national communication networks that seamlessly integrate different countries’ Microwave and mmWave technologies, enhancing coordination in joint military operations.
Moreover, the AUKUS partnership can help address some of the challenges inherent in maintaining a sovereign supply chain. By pooling resources and expertise, the three nations can share the costs of expensive research and development projects and create a larger market for specialised RF and mmWave components. This economy of scale can help sustain a more diverse and robust supply chain, supporting SMEs and larger manufacturers alike.
The collaboration is essential for addressing the complex challenges that arise in maintaining a sovereign supply chain. These challenges include ensuring a steady supply of rare earth materials, crucial for many RF and mmWave components, and developing resilient manufacturing processes that can withstand global disruptions. By combining their efforts, Australia, the UK and the US can create a more robust and adaptive supply chain ecosystem, better equipped to meet the evolving needs of modern defence systems.
By forging strategic alliances with industry leaders, nations can drive innovation in critical areas such as phased array radars and electronic warfare systems. These partnerships enable the development of cutting-edge technologies like more efficient power amplifiers and advanced beam-forming capabilities — crucial for maintaining tactical superiority.
Fostering robust SME networks is equally vital. These agile entities often spearhead niche innovations, such as high-performance mmWave subsystems for satellite communications or specialised microwave filters for advanced radar systems. Their contributions strengthen the overall supply chain, making it more adaptable to technological and geopolitical shifts.
Working with a leader in the industry, such as Filtronic, allows companies to access cutting-edge technology and expertise that drive this innovation. Leaders in the field of RF and mmWave technologies are not just keeping pace with the latest developments; they are setting the pace. This proactive approach ensures that advancements remain ahead of global competitors. By partnering with industry frontrunners, companies can leverage their capabilities to explore new frontiers, ensuring their technologies remain at the cutting edge and cultivating a sovereign supply chain that is both innovative and resilient.
