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Microwave photonics enables communication systems on satellites and aircraft to be smaller and lighter. Royal NLR and LioniX International will work together with Lockheed Martin on novel photonic solutions for microwave systems. This cutting-edge technology will speed up and improve secure communication.

Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and LioniX International are proud to announce that they will start the development of a novel microwave photonic solution supporting space and defence missions in cooperation with Lockheed Martin. This partnership will focus on the development of cutting-edge microwave photonic integrated circuit technology to provide significant advantages with respect to bandwidth and reconfigurability compared with traditional microwave technology. NLR and LioniX have been awarded a contract by Lockheed Martin under an Industrial Participation Program, marking another example of the continued collaboration between Lockheed Martin and Dutch industry.

The REMBRANDT project marks a significant milestone in the evolution of microwave photonic integrated circuits (PICs) with space and defence applications, continuing the Netherlands’ leadership in this emerging technology. Photonic devices utilize photons (or particles of light) as opposed to electrons in electronic components. PICs are small and efficient, enabling integration of optical and electro-optical circuits in one chip to further reduce volume and weight.

The picture shows a ‘hybrid PIC assembly’ which operates as a 4×1 single beam True-Time Delay receiver at 17-21 GHz. The assembled functional module comprised printed circuit boards (PCBs), connectors, a fiber array, InP photo diode array, the LioniX Beamformer PIC, an InP modulator array and InP Photodiode. The red laser light is injected to visually inspect the PIC as the light propagates through the silicon nitride waveguides (credits photo: © LioniX International).

“We are thrilled that Lockheed Martin recognizes the transformative potential of photonic integrated circuits in space and defence applications,” said Arne Leinse, CEO of LioniX International. “This project not only underscores the strategic importance of integrated photonics but also solidifies the Dutch ecosystem’s leading position in this field. We are confident that this collaboration with Lockheed Martin will pave the way for future ambitious ventures.”

The involvement of NLR brings unparalleled expertise in aerospace and space technology to the REMBRANDT project. With a proven track record in European collaboration and innovative international projects, NLR’s role is crucial in guiding this novel technology towards spaceborne applications. NLR will be involved in deriving functional and environmental requirements and in performing various verification tests.

“NLR’s experience in space and aerospace innovation is essential in ensuring that this emerging technology withstands the harsh environmental conditions such as low temperature and vacuum conditions and meets the rigorous standards required for secure communications and sensing systems,” said Jaco Verpoorte, Principal R&D Engineer at NLR.

Lockheed Martin has been at the forefront of advancing this novel technology in pursuit of a next generation of microwave payloads and systems. “This miniaturized photonic technology will be an enabler for advancing the state of the art of space and defence microwave systems,” stated Stephen Robertson, Principal Scientist and Fellow at Lockheed Martin. “The collaboration with NLR and LioniX International on the REMBRANDT project aligns with our vision for the future of our space and defence missions.”

The REMBRANDT project develops foundational technologies supporting the next generation of communication and sensing systems, and reinforces the importance of international collaboration.