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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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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Filtronic, a leader in high-performance mmWave technologies, has strengthened its commercial leadership with the appointment of two new Directors of Business Development, as the company continues to scale its presence across the global space and defence sectors. Mark Bown joins as Director of Business Development for the European space industry, while Peter Stocken takes on the role for the defence and space sectors across the Middle East and Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions.

Together, Mark and Peter bring nearly 40 years of combined experience in the defence and space sectors, with a strong track record of driving commercial growth from SMEs through to multinational corporations. Their work has spanned government departments, prime-level missions and leading collaborations with major international space agencies and defence primes. Their insights and leadership will be instrumental in expanding Filtronic’s global presence.

Mark brings over two decades of commercial and technical expertise, most recently as the Business Development Lead for Space, Europe at BAE Systems. His experience includes space, defence, and critical infrastructure sectors, with a strong focus on strategic business development and collaboration with government and international agencies, including the UK Space Agency and European Space Agency.

Peter joins from BAE Systems, where he held the position of Business Development Lead for Space, Asia-Pacific. He brings a strong strategic and commercial background across both the defence and space sectors. Most recently, Peter led complex campaigns across the Asia-Pacific region focusing on building strategic partnerships. With a proven track record of working across government and industry, Peter brings a wealth of knowledge delivering growth in some of the world’s most dynamic and strategically important regions.

“Mark and Peter bring significant industry experience that will be instrumental in supporting Filtronic’s international growth strategy,” said Antonino Spatola, Chief Commercial Officer at Filtronic.

“I’ve seen first-hand the impact they can make — not just in developing business, but in building long-term, strategic relationships with customers.

“Their combined experience will be a huge asset as we expand our footprint. They understand the sectors we operate in and bring the energy and vision that fits with Filtronic’s ambitions.”

The new appointments come at an exciting time for Filtronic, as demand continues to grow for its advanced RF and mmWave technologies across low Earth orbit (LEO), secure communications, radar and other high-frequency space and defence applications.

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-performance mmWave technologies, has more than doubled the size of its engineering and project management teams over the past year. This expansion underscores the company’s strong growth trajectory, continued investment in UK-based engineering talent, and the increasing demand for its mission-critical communications solutions across multiple sectors. Remarkably, this strategic growth has been achieved despite the well-documented skills gap in engineering, further reinforcing Filtronic’s capability to deliver complex programmes at scale. 

The expanded engineering function is now led by Engineering Director Andy Tucker, while the project management function has come under the leadership of newly appointed Director of Programmes, David Marshall, who brings a strong focus on delivery excellence and strategic programme oversight. 

By actively expanding its engineering capabilities across the UK, Filtronic is responding to industry-wide challenges in recruiting experienced RF engineers. Recognising the competitive landscape for specialist skills, the company has adopted a proactive approach by establishing design offices in locations renowned for their engineering talent. 

Rather than relying solely on traditional recruitment methods, Filtronic has strategically selected talent hotspots—such as Manchester and Cambridge—as new centres for innovation and development. These regions are home to world-class universities and established technology ecosystems, offering access to a strong pipeline of skilled engineers. 

This initiative forms part of Filtronic’s long-term strategy to strengthen its design and development capabilities while building closer links with academic institutions and regional technology clusters. The investment in regional offices not only supports future growth but also reinforces Filtronic’s commitment to fostering UK-based engineering excellence in the RF and mmWave sectors. 

“Our ability to scale our engineering and programme management teams is a clear indication of Filtronic’s momentum,” said Nat Edington, CEO of Filtronic. “We are investing in talent, infrastructure and leadership to ensure we continue delivering high-performance, bespoke solutions to our customers. As we grow, we remain committed to excellence in design, execution, and service.”   

As part of this strategic expansion, Filtronic continues to actively recruit engineers, project managers and technical specialists across multiple UK locations. These roles offer the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies in markets including aerospace, defence, telecommunications infrastructure and space.  

To view current vacancies, visit https://filtronic.com/careers/ 

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Leading expert in RF and mm-Wave technology, Filtronic, has launched its latest V-band high-frequency amplifier system, Prometheus, at the International Microwave Symposium (IMS2025). Designed for mission-critical satellite uplinks and future-focused RF applications, Prometheus delivers high-power, high-frequency performance with scalability and reliability and has been showcased at IMS2025, which took place from 17–19 June at the Moscone Centre in San Francisco, California.

Prometheus is designed for long-range V-Band communications, particularly satellite ground station uplinks, and builds on Filtronic’s experience in delivering high-performance, mission-critical mmWave systems. The new platform combines Gallium Nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology with Filtronic’s Cerus 32 solid-state power amplifiers (SSPAs), offering scalable deployment for various high-frequency applications.

Operating in the 47.2–52.4 GHz range, Prometheus supports a full 5.2 GHz bandwidth and delivers typical saturated output power up to 56 dBm (400W). With a typical gain of 70 dB and excellent linearity (63 dBm OIP3 at 50 dBm output), it is engineered for performance, resilience and long-term reliability in challenging environments. Additional power models will be available soon.

In addition, the system supports expansion from single units to multi-module configurations and includes built-in redundancy and graceful degradation modes to maintain functionality under fault conditions. Its design eliminates the need for harmonic filters, reducing complexity and enhancing reliability over time.

Control and monitoring are also available via Ethernet or serial interfaces, with SNMP V3 ensuring secure network integration. Other features include temperature-compensated gain, automatic bias compensation and input/output protection. Meanwhile, the following optional upgrades are available: linearisers, up-converters, waveguide pressurisation and liquid cooling to meet specific application needs.

“As demand for high-frequency, high-power RF solutions continues to grow, particularly in space and defence markets, Prometheus represents a step forward in what’s technically achievable,” said Antonino Spatola, Chief Commercial Officer at Filtronic. “We’ve designed this system to deliver not just performance but also reliability and flexibility for long-term, mission-critical use cases.”

Prometheus will be exhibited at IMS2025 alongside developments from Filtronic’s work under the European Space Agency’s ARTES programme, which includes the design of Q- and V-band solutions for satellite payloads and gateway links. These developments demonstrate Filtronic’s capability to deliver high-reliability solutions that enable the design of high-capacity data links for both ground and space segments.

For more information on Filtronic’s new V-band product Prometheus and watch this space for exciting news surrounding additional power models, please visit www.filtronic.com.

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