While offering undeniable economic advantages, global interdependence presents growing concerns for nations reliant on external sources for critical technologies. A robust sovereign supply chain for the defence industry is no longer just an option, but a must.
Here, Jerry Sanham, Business Development Director at Microwave and mmWave subsystem manufacturer Filtronic, explores how building a domestic ecosystem for key defence technologies fosters long-term resilience, mitigates geopolitical vulnerabilities and unlocks the potential for technological advancements within the sector.
Microwave and mmWave technology is experiencing rapid advancements, with new applications constantly emerging across various industries. In defence, these technologies play a crucial role in radar systems, electronic warfare and secure communications. For example, advanced phased array radars utilising mmWave frequencies designed for use in missile seekers offer improved resolution and target detection capabilities. Similarly, RF technologies enable sophisticated jamming and counter-jamming systems, critical for maintaining tactical advantage in contested environments.