SpaceX partner Filtronic opening Cambridge Science Park engineering base

Filtronic designs and makes products and sub-systems for the aerospace, defence, telecoms infrastructure and space markets. It says the Cambridge location positions Filtronic “in one of the UK’s most dynamic technology clusters” and reinforces the company's commitment to advancing its expertise in Space and Defence communications.

Cambridge Science Park will provide Filtronic with access to a vibrant network of key industry players, research institutions, and highly skilled radio frequency (RF) engineering talent to execute on its growth plans. It enables Filtronic to enhance its technical capabilities, foster collaboration, and accelerate product innovation in high-frequency communications.

It will also enhance Filtronic's ability to support new and existing clients in the region, while providing a base for collaborative projects aimed at pushing the boundaries of RF and mmWave technology in mission-critical applications.

Filtronic Plc CEO, Nat Edington, said: “Opening an office at Cambridge Science Park is a pivotal step in our growth strategy. Cambridge’s thriving ecosystem of technology and innovation is an ideal environment for Filtronic as we continue to develop resilient, high-performance solutions for demanding environments.

“This expansion underscores our commitment to investing in the future of UK engineering and supporting the country's ambitions in Space and Defence."

It was only in September that Filtronic announced it would be moving to a larger, state-of-the-art HQ in County Durham, with relocation to occur in early 2025. The new custom-built facility will double the company’s manufacturing footprint in the UK, significantly expanding its capabilities and capacity.

In April of this year, Filtronic entered into a strategic partnership and commercial agreement with SpaceX, which includes the ongoing supply of E-band solid-state power amplifiers, alongside collaborative efforts in developing and delivering comparable products across multiple frequency bands core to SpaceX’s Starlink platform.

This month, the company appointed Laurence Scullion as its new Director of Product Engineering, responsible for process and product engineering. Lured from Cambridge-headquartered Pragmatic, he has over two decades of leadership experience in high-technology environments.

Filtronic was founded by Professor David Rhodes (Leeds University), using equipment based in his garage and bedroom; the original plan was to work on components for the Tornado Aircraft. The company soon gained a reputation for innovation, quality and technical knowledge and grew quickly in the UK, United States and globally.