Telecoms technology firm Filtronic is poised to significantly increase its manufacturing capacity with an expansion into a custom-built facility in County Durham. This development follows a high-value agreement with SpaceX.
Filtronic, noted for its transmitters and receivers for satellite communications, is set to double its manufacturing capacity by moving into a purpose-built facility at NETPark in 2025. The new premises will feature enhanced production capabilities, including additional cleanroom areas, engineering laboratories, and testing facilities.
This relocation aims to maintain the company’s leading position in the high-frequency RF and mm-Wave communications technology sector. Chief Executive Officer, Nat Edington, remarked, “The increased production space and enhanced testing facilities in our new building will enable us to continue developing next-generation products and push performance boundaries even further.”
A major catalyst for this growth is a $60m (£48m) five-year deal with SpaceX, announced earlier this year. Filtronic is set to provide equipment for the Starlink system, a constellation of low earth orbit satellites designed to deliver internet services to underserved regions globally. The agreement includes SpaceX’s option to acquire up to 10% of Filtronic’s shares.
The first shipment of Filtronic’s E-band Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA) modules, which boost low power radio frequencies, is scheduled for delivery to SpaceX in 2025. Subsequent deliveries will follow, tied to the broader multi-year partnership, which recently saw another $8.4m (£6.4m) order.
Additionally, Filtronic has secured other notable contracts, including a £3.2m order from the European Space Agency and a £4.5m agreement with BAE Maritime. The firm, honoured with the King’s Award for Innovation on four occasions, reported a 56% increase in revenue to £25.4m and a substantial rise in operating profits to £3.6m, up from £200,000 the previous year.
Filtronic’s expansion into a larger facility marks a significant step in its growth trajectory, driven by high-profile partnerships and innovative technology. This move is set to enhance its capabilities and maintain its position at the forefront of the telecommunications sector.