RTX's Arm Gets a Contract to Develop Ultra-Wide Bandgap Semiconductors

Contract Overview - RTX Corporation's unit, Raytheon, has secured a three-year contract from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to develop ultra-wide bandgap semiconductors (UWBGS) using diamond and aluminum nitride materials [1][2] - The contract will be executed in two phases: the first phase involves developing thin films for electronic devices, while the second phase focuses on scaling the technology for larger wafers suitable for sensors [2] Importance of UWBGS - UWBGS offers significant advantages over traditional semiconductors, including the ability to create compact and powerful radio frequency switches, limiters, and amplifiers [3] - These semiconductors exhibit high thermal conductivity, enabling them to operate effectively at elevated temperatures and in challenging environments, thus enhancing reliability across various applications [3] Applications and Impact - The latest contract aims to develop UWBGS for devices that will enhance radar and communication systems, supporting capabilities such as cooperative sensing, electronic warfare, and directed energy systems [4] - UWBGS will be crucial for high-speed weapon systems, including hypersonics, where performance is essential [4] Market Outlook - The potential of UWBGS to advance military and defense technology is expected to transform the use of advanced electronics and bolster U.S. military capabilities [5] - Global Market Insights forecasts a compound annual growth rate of over 8% for the global military and defense semiconductor market from 2024 to 2032, indicating strong growth prospects [5] Industry Peers - Lockheed Martin Corporation has partnered with GlobalFoundries to enhance U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, focusing on improving supply chain security for national defense systems [6] - Lockheed Martin is also collaborating with Intel Corporation and Altera to develop a low-size, weight, and power airborne electronic defense system [7] - Northrop Grumman Corporation has been providing trusted foundry and semiconductor services for over 50 years, specializing in III-V compound semiconductors for various applications [8] - The Boeing Company is expanding its semiconductor capabilities through a partnership with Korean institutions to develop advanced semiconductor technologies for aerospace applications [9][10]