Filtronic awarded UK Defence Innovation Contract to advance connectivity technologies

Filtronic has been awarded a £1.9 million contract under the Contracts for Innovation: Advanced Connectivity Technologies (ACT) competition. Delivered by Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the competition is run on behalf of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

The 100%-funded contract is scheduled to commence in September 2026 and will run for 12 months.

Under the contract, Filtronic will develop next-generation compound semiconductor IP for the delivery of resilient, energy-efficient and high-capacity terrestrial and non-terrestrial communications infrastructure. Specifically, it will advance a portfolio of Gallium Nitride (GaN), Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) and Indium Phosphide (InP) semiconductor IP for Q/V band, E-band, W-band and D-band operation.

These technologies are critical enablers for the feeder links, high-throughput backhaul and ultra-high frequency communications required by rapidly scaling Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations and future integrated terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.

Integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks to enhance network connectivity and resilience

The ACT competition forms part of the R&D Programme, announced in the Digital and Technologies Sector Plan under the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy. This aims to develop near-term, testable solutions that advance UK capabilities in two key areas: ‘Secure and Resilient Networks’ and ‘Sustainable Networks’.

Filtronic’s project directly supports the ACT competition’s themes of seamless non-terrestrial network (NTN) integration and reducing energy consumption in critical network infrastructure. It also aligns closely with Filtronic’s strategic focus on enabling next-generation communications systems that deliver enhanced performance, network resilience and operational efficiency.

By supporting the transition from legacy travelling wave tube amplifier (TWTA) technologies towards scalable solid-state communications infrastructure, it promises to enhance operational lifetime performance, enable graceful degradation and lower overall cost of ownership for future network operators.

Tudor Williams, Chief Technology Officer, Filtronic, said: “As terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks become increasingly integrated, the need for higher capacity, lower power consumption and greater system resilience across multiple frequency bands will continue to grow. This programme strengthens Filtronic’s technology leadership in these strategically important areas while supporting the UK’s ambition to develop world-class communications technologies for deployment across global markets.”