NETPark Hosts National RF & Microwave Workshop with CSA Catapult

NETPark Hosts National RF & Microwave Workshop with CSA Catapult

NETPark in Orbit – Durham University Innovation Hub welcomed over 40 businesses from across the UK for a national workshop led by the Compound Semiconductor Applications (CSA) Catapult, focused on advancing the UK’s capabilities in radio frequency (RF) and microwave communications.

The event brought together industry leaders, SMEs, academics, and policymakers to explore how the UK can secure its position in this strategically vital sector.

Key Themes from the Day

• Securing Technology Sovereignty: Speakers emphasised the importance of identifying and retaining mission-critical dual-use technologies. Developing these capabilities onshore is essential to safeguarding the UK’s RF future.

• Closing the Skills Gap: From apprenticeships to PhDs, building a sovereign talent pipeline was highlighted as a national priority. Targeted investment in RF skills at every level will be crucial to maintaining global competitiveness.

• Empowering SMEs: SMEs are central to innovation. The workshop called for greater integration of small businesses into the sovereign RF supply chain, enabling them to scale alongside major players.

• A Call to Collaborate: Achieving RF sovereignty requires coordinated action across government, industry, and academia. The message was clear: collaboration must begin now.

A Warm Welcome and a Look Ahead

It was a pleasure to welcome Caroline O. on her first visit to NETPark. We look forward to hosting the CSA Catapult team again in November.

Special thanks to Rebecca Lauren Scarr and Claire Cook for their support in making the event a success.

As the UK sharpens its focus on RF and microwave technologies, NETPark continues to play a pivotal role—connecting innovators, accelerating growth, and shaping the future of sovereign supply chains.