Northrop Grumman Unveils Rice-Sized FORTITUDE Chip Revolutionizing Radar and Satellite Communications
Northrop Grumman has introduced the FORTITUDE radio frequency chip FORTITUDE based on gallium nitride (GaN), designed for radars, satellite communications, and other systems working with radio signals. The company compares the size of the chip to a grain of rice, yet inside it combines functions that in traditional equipment might require a set of separate components.
The main feature of FORTITUDE is the simultaneous switching and filtering of radio frequency signals. The chip can switch them in less than a nanosecond and operate over a wide range—from kilohertz to 20 GHz. Northrop Grumman expects that integrating several tasks into one chip will reduce the number of components, equipment weight, and energy consumption.
Why a Superlattice Was Needed
The core of FORTITUDE is a patented multilayer semiconductor structure — superlattice. It consists of many very thin layers and is designed for more efficient electron movement.
According to the manufacturer, this architecture can carry about ten times more charge than standard GaN solutions. This allows for increasing power without a comparable increase in chip size while simultaneously reducing energy losses.
Close-up of the FORTITUDE multilayer technology. Illustration: Northrop Grumman
Northrop Grumman also claims a threefold increase in power and a 20-fold improvement in signal quality. Important note: published materials do not disclose the measurement methodology, testing conditions, or exact basis for comparison. Therefore, the figures should currently be viewed as company-claimed specifications rather than results of independent comparative testing.
Potential applications for FORTITUDE include radars, satellite systems, GPS, electronic warfare, and future 6G networks. The company intends to offer the technology to defense and commercial customers in the United States. The timeline for mass production and the cost of the chips are not yet disclosed.
Source: Northrop Grumman
