Filtronic plc (AIM: FTC), a global leader in high-performance and high-frequency solutions for the space, defence and telecoms infrastructure markets, today announced the launch of its Digital Intermediate Frequency (DIFI) solution, engineered to accelerate the industry’s transition from traditional analogue RF infrastructure to flexible and secure RF-over-IP connectivity for cloud-enabled satellite networks.

Fully aligned with the IEEE-ISTO STD 4900, Filtronic’s DIFI solution enables seamless interoperability across a rapidly expanding ecosystem of next-generation digital IF systems. As an active member of the DIFI Consortium, Filtronic is participating in regular multi-vendor interoperability trials, reinforcing the company’s commitment to open, standards-based innovation.

DIFI represents a fundamental shift in how signals are transported within modern satellite and defence communication systems. By sampling analogue signals, encapsulating them as encrypted IP packets and transmitting them over standard ethernet networks, DIFI eliminates dependence on heavy analogue IF infrastructure and multiple coaxial cable runs.

This modern approach not only simplifies installation and reduces the operational burden for ground‑segment teams but also drives down both capital expenditure and ongoing operational expenditure. With fewer physical components to install, maintain and replace, operators can achieve lower capex from the outset and reduced opex over the lifecycle of the system. Critically it also adds resilience as they can focus efforts on protecting one centralised secure facility, while eliminating potential vulnerabilities at each individual antenna site.

The global growth in data demand from high throughput satellites, LEO constellations and the new defence applications have all heightened the need for architectures that are scalable, secure and less operationally burdensome. Filtronic’s new DIFI solution directly addresses these pressures, especially for those wishing to take advantage of higher band frequencies such as those used at  Ka, Q/V, E and W bands

The platform features six transmit-and-receive RF channels, each capable of interfacing to carriers up to 2.5 GHz of instantaneous bandwidth on IF carrier frequencies up to 6GHz. The RF signals can be sampled at 8 to 14bit level and the encapsulated RF signals are transmitted over IP via a 100Gbit ethernet port with a second port being enabled should additional data rate be needed. This exceptionally wide bandwidth provides a substantial performance advantage over existing lower‑bandwidth solutions in the market, while maintaining a competitive pricing model. In addition, an internal RF mezzanine board can be customised with tailored IF filtering for Block Upconverter and Block Downconverter applications, giving operators the flexibility to adapt the system to the specific needs of their ground segment.

Nima Razavi-Ghods, Head of Systems Engineering at Filtronic, said, “Digital IF is a pivotal technology for the future of satellite communications, and its adoption marks a major step forward in enabling truly virtualised, cloud‑ready architectures. With this new product, we’ve focused not only on delivering outstanding bandwidth and performance, but also on ensuring that the solution is practical, interoperable and future‑proof. Our goal is to give operators a platform that reduces hardware complexity, strengthens resilience and unlocks the full potential of digital transformation across the ground segment.”

The introduction of Filtronic’s DIFI platform reflects the company’s ongoing investment in enabling high performance, mission critical communication systems. By offering wider bandwidth, greater flexibility, stronger security and a significantly reduced hardware footprint, the new solution sets a benchmark for the next generation of digital IF infrastructure.

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.

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The purpose-built site significantly expands the company’s production capacity, doubling Filtronic’s UK manufacturing footprint and providing a six-fold increase in cleanroom space. In total, the expanded infrastructure gives Filtronic the capacity to support over £200 million in annual revenue, cementing Filtronic’s position as the UK’s leading vertically integrated producer of mission-critical high frequency technologies used across satellite communications, space systems and defence programmes.

The build out of the new facility was entirely self-funded by Filtronic, reflecting the business’s strong financial position and long-term commitment to maintaining sovereign UK capability in high performance radar, signals intelligence (SIGINT) systems and datalink solutions. It follows a sustained period of commercial momentum, with the company entering the second half of 2026 with a record order book, multi-year contracts and new wins across major space and defence primes.

Filtronic’s vertically integrated model — spanning design, development, qualification, manufacturing and test — underpins a dependable, onshore UK supply of high-performance connectivity solutions. This structure eliminates margin stacking and enables lean, scalable operations supported by growing automation. This is especially important as allied governments increase investment in secure satcom, resilient datalinks and next‑generation defence systems.

Nat Edington, CEO, Filtronic, said, “Our investment in this new facility brings the scale, capability and resilience needed for our next phase of growth. As our markets shift decisively towards higher frequencies, higher bandwidth and ultra-reliable solid-state architectures, it’s a signal that we’ll continue to pre-empt, support and surpass our customer’s long-term requirements.”

Dr Paul Bate, CEO, UK Space Agency, said: “Filtronic’s new facility at NETPark is a statement of intent for UK space manufacturing. Doubling their production footprint and dramatically expanding cleanroom capacity demonstrates exactly the kind of long-term industrial commitment that strengthens Britain’s capability in critical space technologies. As demand grows for high-performance RF solutions across satellite constellations and defence programmes, having world-class manufacturers of this calibre operating at scale in the UK are a significant asset.”

Space minister Liz Lloyd said: “The opening of this state-of-the-art facility is a clear demonstration of the strength and confidence within the UK’s space sector, and a powerful example of British industrial ambition in action. Filtronic is helping to reinforce the UK’s status as a world leader in cutting‑edge communications technology.”

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.

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The two-year programme will be delivered from Filtronic’s new secure and automated microelectronics facility in Sedgefield, purpose-built to support high-volume production of complex RF modules for the space, aerospace and defence, and telecoms infrastructure markets. Filtronic’s recent and on-going investments in cutting-edge capability ensure it is ideally placed to meet growing demand for sovereign manufacturing and resilient supply chains in the defence and space sectors.

Nat Edington, Chief Executive Officer, said: “This award demonstrates long-term customer confidence in Filtronic’s technology and expertise. As nations seek to strengthen sovereign capability and secure critical supply chains, Filtronic is uniquely positioned to deliver advanced RF solutions at scale. Our continued investment in automation and secure facilities underpins our commitment to supporting defence primes with reliable, high-performance technologies.”

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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Filtronic today has announced its full year results for the 12 months ended 31 May 2025.

Financial highlights are:

This standout performance in FY2025, marks a significant step forward in the execution of its growth strategy. Strategic milestones with key partners have strengthened relationships and laid the groundwork for further contract expansion. Investments in commercial alignment, including leadership changes and the opening of a new Cambridge office, have enhanced go-to-market capability and attracted high-calibre talent.

The Group is expanding its UK manufacturing footprint with a move to a new, custom-built facility in Sedgefield, set for completion in H1 FY2026, to meet growing demand across core markets.

Engagement in the Space sector reached record levels, highlighted by a landmark agreement with SpaceX and new contracts with ESA, Viasat and Airbus. In Defence, momentum continues with a radar contract win with Leonardo and progress on programmes with QinetiQ and BAE Maritime Systems.

Innovation remains at the core, with expansion into V Band, the launch of Prometheus, the highest-power V-band SSPA on the market, and the transition from GaAs to GaN technologies ahead of the 2026 product rollout.

Commenting on the results, Nat Edington, Chief Executive, said: “FY2025 has been a transformative year for Filtronic, showcasing the successful execution of our growth strategy. Our record revenue growth and landmark wins in the Space and Defence sectors reflect the trust placed in us by global players and that our technology is meeting real world demand. As we enter FY2026, we are confident in our trajectory, with a strong order book, healthy cash position, and a strengthened leadership team in place. The transition to GaN technology, expansion into higher-frequency bands, and our move to a new, larger manufacturing facility will enable us to scale effectively and capitalise on the significant opportunities ahead.”

With strong commercial traction, a robust order book and healthy cash reserves, Filtronic enters FY2026 positioned to scale and meet rising global demand for high-frequency, resilient communications infrastructure.

For more information about Filtronic’s range of 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.

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