NSIP funding to develop high-power amplifier

RNS Reach

3 December 2025

Filtronic plc

("Filtronic" or "the Company")

NSIP funding award to develop next generation high-power amplifier

New solution delivers leading linear power performance for future satellite systems

Filtronic plc (AIM: FTC), the designer and manufacturer of advanced RF solutions for the space, aerospace and defence, and telecoms infrastructure markets, announces that it has been awarded £1.2m funding through the UK Space Agency's National Space Innovation Programme ("NSIP") for a project to develop a high-power 550W Ka-Band Solid-State Power Amplifier ("SSPA").

Designed to fit seamlessly into existing satellite ground stations, Filtronic's new SSPA enables an easy, plug-and-play transition from older Travelling Wave Tube Amplifier ("TWTA") technology.

This strategic development builds on Filtronic's successful SSPA design and targets a critically important frequency band. Ka band is central to the expansion of non-geostationary constellations, which rely on it for high-capacity, low-latency feeder and user links. Its adoption is also essential for enabling next-generation services, from in-flight connectivity to 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks. As a result, Ka band will underpin many of the high throughput Satcom services expected to shape the industry over the next decade.

NSIP is a UK government initiative funding innovative space technology projects and the Company's new high-power amplifier features in the programme'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.

Nat Edington, Chief Executive Officer at Filtronic commented: "This award reflects the strength of our innovation pipeline and our place in the UK's space ecosystem. 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 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. Built on strategic industry partnerships and a proven record of innovation, our integrated design and manufacturing model delivers scalable, cost-efficient solutions that earned us selection under this leading programme."

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."

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About Filtronic:

Filtronic is at the leading edge of advanced microelectronics globally, specialising in the design and manufacture of mission-critical communication networks. Operating from two global manufacturing sites and three engineering centres of excellence, the company delivers solutions that span the full RF spectrum. An extensive patent portfolio highlights Filtronic's ongoing drive for innovation and technological leadership.

With a track record of over 45 years', Filtronic's technology is trusted across high-performance sectors including space, aerospace, defence, telecoms infrastructure and critical communications. The company develops core IP building blocks and transforms them into highly customised solutions for high-growth target markets. Filtronic's expertise enables seamless data transmission, delivering greater bandwidth, lower latency and enhanced connectivity.

Filtronic has successfully coupled this engineering expertise with investment in state-of-the-art production equipment that enables the rapid transition of a turn-key solution from product development to full scale, high quality manufacturing, at volume. The strategic markets of LEO space, aerospace and defence are the focus of current product development programmes, where Filtronic can add significant value, realise long term sustainable margins and deliver shareholder value.

Operating globally and headquartered in Sedgefield, UK, Filtronic is listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange.