Sofant Technologies, the Edinburgh-based wireless communications company, has unveiled what it describes as a world-first demonstration of a fully functioning Ka-band transmit array powered by its proprietary RF MEMS beamforming integrated circuit.
The milestone, announced at the Tech Tour Defence conference in Paris, marks a significant step forward in the development of high-frequency communications systems used in satellite, defence, and next-generation mobile networks.
Beamforming—used to direct radio signals precisely towards receivers—is vital for high-frequency millimetre-wave bands employed in satellite communications, 5G, and emerging 6G networks. Sofant’s micro-electromechanical (MEMS) approach promises to deliver these capabilities with far greater power efficiency than conventional semiconductor technologies.
By reducing the size, weight, and power requirements of communication systems, RF MEMS technology is seen as particularly valuable for aerospace and defence applications, where energy and mass constraints are critical.
David Wither, Sofant’s Chief Executive, said the achievement represented a “defining moment” for the company and the industry. “Delivering the world’s first RF MEMS beamforming IC demonstrates our team’s technical leadership and relentless determination in tackling challenges others thought impossible,” he said.
He added that the company had developed a scalable manufacturing process to enable high-volume, low-cost production. Commercial sales of Sofant’s beamforming solution are planned for the second half of 2026.
Sofant, supported by investors including Scottish Enterprise, EMV Capital, Kelvin Capital, Caladan Capital, the UK Space Agency, and the European Space Agency, claims its patented RF MEMS technology can reduce power consumption by up to 70%, offering one of the lowest size, weight, and cost profiles on the market.
EMV Capital, one of Sofant’s backers, is a London-based venture capital firm specialising in deep tech and life sciences investments. It manages the Evergreen EIS and Martlet Capital funds and holds direct stakes in a portfolio of early-stage technology companies.
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