Hanwha Systems is intensifying its industry-academia collaboration to achieve independence in defense semiconductors. The company has partnered with Seoul National University and Sungkyunkwan University to develop key semiconductors for applications in radar and satellite communications.
On July 15, Hanwha Systems held a defense semiconductor technology workshop and announced the signing of detailed contracts for the development of high-power microwave (HPM) semiconductor chips with both universities.
Microwaves are directional energy weapons that emit powerful electromagnetic energy to disable enemy electronic and communication equipment within a radius of several hundred meters. The collaboration will also focus on developing defense semiconductors necessary for radar, searchers, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites, and satellite tactical communication equipment.
Following the establishment of a joint research center for defense semiconductors with Seoul National University and Sungkyunkwan University in March, this contract marks the beginning of substantial joint research and technology development.
Specifically, the joint research center at Seoul National University will work on developing 'high-linearity semiconductor chips for satellite terminals' aimed at reducing signal distortion during data transmission between space and ground. This technology is considered essential for improving satellite communication quality and miniaturizing terminal devices.
Hanwha Systems plans to gradually apply this technology to satellite terminals from this year until 2028, with future expansions to include low Earth orbit satellite communication payloads and next-generation communication base stations.
The joint research center at Sungkyunkwan University will focus on securing design technology for monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs). MMICs integrate multiple components required for radar transmission and reception into a single semiconductor chip, making them critical components that influence the performance of active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars and small satellites.
Additionally, Hanwha Systems is considering the introduction of foundry processes for mass production of defense semiconductors. The company aims to secure independent technology to enhance competitiveness in both domestic weapon systems and the global defense market.
Through this industry-academia collaboration, Hanwha Systems expects to localize key defense semiconductors that are currently heavily reliant on imports, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of next-generation weapon systems.
“Collaboration with Seoul National University and Sungkyunkwan University is not just about technology development; it is a process of establishing a virtuous cycle value chain that leads to the design, verification, expansion, and commercialization of defense semiconductors,” said Kwak Jong-woo, head of Hanwha Systems' foundational research institute.
Meanwhile, as global security uncertainties persist, the strategic importance of defense semiconductors is increasing. It is reported that the domestic defense semiconductor sector relies on imports for about 99% of its needs. In response, the government enacted the 'Act on the Promotion and Support of Defense Semiconductors' last month to foster self-sufficiency in key components and stabilize supply chains.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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