BAE to Develop Custom Microelectronics for Next-generation R
Stay informed with our
free newsletters

BAE to Develop Custom Microelectronics for Next-generation Radar, EW, and Communication Applications

  • FAST Labs research and development organization awarded a $5 million contract from the Office of Naval Research

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has awarded BAE Systems’ FAST Labs research and development organization a $5 million contract for the COALESCE (Common-architecture Amplifier for Low-cost, Efficient, SWaP-Constrained Environments) program.

In this effort, BAE Systems’ FAST Labs, will develop advanced Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) and module electronics. The program’s objective is to develop the world’s highest efficiency high power amplifier module in its frequency band. The radio-frequency (RF) modules will then transition to small form factor U.S. Navy payloads, enabling longer range and greater effectiveness in active electronic warfare applications.

“The COALESCE program closes the gap between commercial electronics and customized electronics to meet the Department of Defense’s space and power requirements and enable next-generation solutions,” said Ben McMahon, technology development manager at BAE Systems’ FAST Labs. “Together with the Office of Naval Research, we will deliver these electronic solutions to increase survivability for our warfighters.”

Electronic Warfare (EW) - Market and Technology Forecast to 2033

Electronic Warfare (EW) - Market and Technology Forecast to 2033

Market forecast by Regions, Platform, System, Integration, and Lifecycle Phase. Country Analysis, Market and Technology Overview, Critical Raw Materials, Opportunity Analysis, and Leading Company Profiles

Download free sample pages More information

BAE Systems will provide capabilities above and beyond what can be found commercially, and its solution is designed specifically for harsh DoD operating environments. The technology’s high power and ultra-small form factor will enable next-generation radar, electronic warfare, and communication applications.

MMICs and modules for the program will be fabricated at BAE Systems’ Microelectronics Center Foundry in Nashua, New Hampshire. The FAST Labs organization in Merrimack, New Hampshire will work to ensure the technology is relevant across multiple DoD branches, applications, and businesses.


Publishdate:
Nov 8, 2023

National Conference on CFIUS 2026

National Conference on CFIUS 2026

Washington, DC
Apr 22 - 23, 2026

View agenda
DoW/VA & Government Health IT Summit 2026

DoW/VA & Government Health IT Summit 2026

Washington, DC
Apr 28 - 29, 2026

View agenda