CAES Releases Wideband, GaN-Based, High-Power RF Amplifier for Electronic Warfare Systems

New Amplifier Enables Deep-Reach Electronic Attack Capability for SWaP-Constrained Assets

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CAES, a leading provider of mission critical electronics for aerospace and defense, introduced a wideband, Gallium Nitride (GaN) based, high-power wideband RF amplifier. The ruggedized RF amplifier features the industry’s best RF output power-to-weight ratio and enables long distance stand-off jamming and self-protection applications for a wide range of assets, including airborne platforms with stringent SWAP requirements such as UAVs and EW pods.

“This latest innovation builds upon our decades-long heritage in airborne electronic attack while leveraging the latest GaN technologies,” said Dave Young, Chief Technology Officer, CAES. “Combined with our unique packaging techniques and pioneering cooling approach, the GaN power amplifier is optimized for the next generation of EW systems. Our modular design approach allows customers to scale the amplifier up or down to meet the specific requirements of any application, from EW pods to UAVs and other airborne platforms,” he continued. “The high power amplifier enables longer distance effects and more effective jamming versus legacy systems.”

Offering high levels of capability in the small form factors required for airborne applications, CAES employs novel cooling techniques including custom GaN packaging that enables more efficient heat transfer as well as imbedded chill plates that support liquid flow-through cooling for optimized size, weight, power and cost. CAES estimates that an order of magnitude weight savings is possible as compared to legacy EW solutions. The new amplifier is, furthermore, able to operate with high efficiency even when subjected to high reflected-power levels.

Key benefits and features include:

• 50-Ohm Impedance (nominal)
• 60-dBm Power Gain (nominal)
• 270 VDC Prime Power Voltage
• 10-inch x 14-inch x 4.5-inch Dimensions

For full specifications, download the product brief. For more information on CAES RF amplifiers, visit our Amplifiers page.

The amplifier is available to be viewed at the CAES booth, number 413, at the Association of Old Crows International Symposium and Convention.

About CAES

CAES is a pioneer of advanced electronics for the most technologically challenging military and aerospace trusted systems. As the largest provider of mixed-signal and radiation-hardened technology to the United States aerospace and defense industry, CAES delivers high-reliability RF, microwave and millimeter wave, microelectronic and digital solutions that enable our customers to ensure a safer, more secure planet. On land, at sea, in the air, in space and in cyberspace, CAES’ extensive electronics and enhanced manufacturing capabilities are at the forefront of mission-critical military and aerospace innovation. www.caes.com