[Edaily Reporter Shin Ha-yeon] #C-Gitronics, a company specializing in next-generation specialized semiconductors, has successfully developed high-power RF semiconductors for use in advanced defense systems and is now entering the defense semiconductor market.

C-Gitronics announced on the 10th that it has completed the development and performance verification of a prototype 20W-class X-Band power amplifier (GaN PA MMIC), a core component of K-defense weapon systems.

The product developed by the company is a core semiconductor used in the transmitter units of AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radars, which are installed in the latest fighter jets and naval vessels. As a component that determines the detection range and accuracy of radars, demand for GaN-on-SiC-based semiconductors—which offer high power and excellent heat resistance—is rapidly expanding in the global defense market.

C-GTRONICS explained that through this development, it has achieved 20W-class high output power while securing a gain of over 37dB and a maximum power efficiency of 39.2%. It is assessed that achieving high output and efficiency in a small chip size will contribute to the miniaturization and performance improvement of radar systems.

This technology was developed by integrating C-Gitronics’ RF design and process technologies based on a technology transfer from the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI). The related research results have been submitted to the world-renowned academic journal IEEE and are currently under review; the company expects this to demonstrate its global technological competitiveness.

This product can be applied to various advanced defense equipment, including AESA radars, anti-drone defense systems, electronic warfare equipment, and surveillance radars for aircraft and naval vessels. The company plans to expand its development scope to include follow-up products with enhanced output performance and next-generation RF semiconductor lineups such as Ku-Band and Ka-Band.

Building on this achievement, Cigitronics aims to expand its business scope beyond its existing electronic protection devices and sensors into the field of defense-specific semiconductors, while accelerating efforts toward self-sufficiency in domestic defense semiconductors and entry into the global market.

A representative from C-Gitronics stated, “This X-Band GaN MMIC is our first achievement in the defense sector, representing the culmination of the company’s GaN process technology and RF design capabilities,” adding, “We will continue to expand our high-power RF semiconductor product portfolio and actively pursue the establishment of mass production systems and entry into the global defense market.”