News: Microelectronics
18 November 2025
Filtronic completes multi-year project to develop plastic QFN packaging for GaN devices
Filtronic plc of Sedgefield and Leeds, UK — which designs and manufactures RF and millimeter-wave (mmWave) transmit & receive components and subsystems — has completed a multi-year project to develop novel plastic QFN packaging for gallium nitride (GaN) devices, marking what is described as a significant milestone for UK sovereign capability in advanced semiconductor technology.
The project was part-funded through the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), part of UK Defence Innovation, via its Defence Technology Exploitation Programme (DTEP). Supported by a major defence prime contractor, the project was completed in August.
The program saw Filtronic design, manufacture and qualify QFNs incorporating GaN-based monolithic microwave integrated circuits (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 engineering-led work 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% 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,” says chief technology officer Tudor Williams. “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,” he adds.
“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,” comments 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.”
Filtronic unveiling GaN-based Cerus V solid-state power amplifier
