RF Frontend Design (RFE) on Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) Open Topic
ID: DMEA254-P001Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

RF Frontend Design (RFE) on Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) Open Topic

Agency

Agency: DODBranch: DMEA

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTH
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA), is seeking proposals for the design, development, and demonstration of a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) utilizing commercially available GlobalFoundries 200-mm Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) technology. The primary objective is to enhance output power density, linearity, and efficiency in radio communication systems for both military and commercial applications, addressing the current lack of integrated 200-mm GaN-on-Si technology solutions for RF frontend circuitry. This initiative leverages GaN's superior physical properties to achieve high output power and efficiency, with a structured approach across three phases: Phase I focuses on feasibility studies and design assessments, Phase II involves the fabrication and testing of prototypes, and Phase III aims to refine designs for military applications such as radar and communications. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on November 19, 2025, with proposals due by December 10, 2025, and can find more information at the provided source link.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    This government Request for Proposal (RFP) DMEA254-P001, “RF Frontend Design (RFE) on Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) Open Topic,” seeks to design, develop, and demonstrate a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) utilizing GlobalFoundries (GF) 200-mm Gallium Nitride on Silicon (130RFG1) technology. The objective is to enhance output power density, linearity, and efficiency in radio communication systems for both military and commercial applications. The RFP addresses the current lack of integrated monolithic 200-mm GaN-on-Si technology solutions for scaled integration of PAs and LNAs. GaN-on-Si offers superior physical properties, such as higher electron mobility, current density, breakdown voltages, and power efficiency, compared to traditional silicon-based technologies, leading to significant advantages in size, weight, area, and power (SWaP). Phase I requires demonstrating feasibility through design, simulation, and assessment of process and models, while Phase II focuses on fabricating and testing functional prototypes, with contractors needing to be a DMEA accredited Trusted Supplier. Phase III outlines opportunities for further refinement, integration into military applications like radar, communications, sensors, and electronic warfare, and commercialization.
    The DMEA254-P001 RFP seeks proposals for designing, developing, and demonstrating a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) using GlobalFoundries' 200-mm Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) technology (130RFG1). The objective is to enhance output power density, linearity, and efficiency in radio communication systems for military and commercial applications, addressing the current lack of monolithic 200-mm GaN-on-Si solutions for scaled integration. Phase I requires demonstrating feasibility through design, simulation, and assessment of process, models, and design kits, comparing performance to state-of-the-art. Phase II focuses on designing, fabricating, packaging, and testing functional LNA and PA prototypes, with the contractor delivering samples, test boards, and comprehensive reports to the USG. The contractor must be a DMEA-accredited Trusted Supplier or have successful product sales in the RF market. Phase III aims for further development and integration of the technology into specific military applications like radar and electronic warfare, supporting USG test and validation for field use. Access to the designed IP will be made available to the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) or commercial partners with a licensing fee under $50k.
    The DMEA254-P001 RFP seeks proposals for designing and demonstrating a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) using commercially available GlobalFoundries 200-mm Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) technology (130RFG1). The objective is to enhance output power density, linearity, and efficiency in radio communication systems for both military and commercial applications. The project aims to address the current lack of monolithic 200-mm GaN-on-Si solutions for scaled integration in RF frontend (RFE) circuitry, leveraging GaN's superior physical properties for higher output power, efficiency, and reduced size, weight, area, and power (SWaP). Phase I focuses on feasibility, simulation, and design approaches, while Phase II involves the design, development, fabrication, and testing of functional prototypes, with the contractor required to be a DMEA accredited Trusted Supplier. Phase III will explore dual-use applications in military radar, communications, sensors, and electronic warfare, with opportunities for commercialization. The USG will provide access to silicon space via GlobalFoundries MPW/Shuttle run.
    This government RFP, DMEA254-P001, seeks proposals for designing, developing, and demonstrating a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) using GlobalFoundries' 200-mm Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) technology (130RFG1). The objective is to enhance output power density, linearity, and efficiency in radio communication systems for both military and commercial applications. The project addresses the current lack of monolithic 200-mm GaN-on-Si solutions for scaled integration of PAs and LNAs, leveraging GaN's superior physical properties over silicon. Phase I requires demonstrating feasibility through design, simulation, and assessment of the technology's integration impacts. Phase II involves the design, development, fabrication, and testing of functional LNA and PA prototypes by DMEA-accredited trusted suppliers, with deliverables including detailed reports, design collaterals, and samples to the U.S. Government. Phase III focuses on refining designs and integrating the technology into specific military applications like radar, communications, and electronic warfare, with opportunities for commercialization. Access to silicon space via a GlobalFoundries MPW/Shuttle run will be provided as Government Furnished Equipment.
    This RFP seeks proposals for designing, developing, and demonstrating a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) using GlobalFoundries' 200-mm Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) technology (130RFG1). The objective is to enhance output power density, linearity, and efficiency in radio communication systems for military and commercial applications. The project aims to address the current lack of monolithic GaN-on-Si solutions for scaled integration in RF frontend (RFE) circuitry. Phase I focuses on feasibility, process evaluation, and design simulations, while Phase II involves fabricating and testing functional LNA and PA prototypes, with DMEA accreditation required for contractors. Phase III will focus on further refinement, integration into military applications, and commercialization opportunities. The project emphasizes leveraging GaN's superior physical properties for high output power and efficiency, leading to advancements in radar, communications, sensors, and electronic warfare.
    This government RFP, DMEA254-P001, seeks proposals for the design, development, and demonstration of a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) utilizing GlobalFoundries' 200-mm Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) technology (130RFG1). The objective is to enhance output power density, linearity, and efficiency in radio communication systems for both military and commercial applications. The project addresses the current lack of monolithic 200-mm GaN-on-Si integrated solutions for PAs and LNAs, leveraging GaN's superior properties like high electron mobility, current density, wide bandgap, and breakdown voltage for improved RF performance and power efficiency. Phase I requires a feasibility study, design evaluation, and proposed development activities, including packaging and testing. Phase II involves the design, fabrication, and testing of functional LNA and PA prototypes by a DMEA-accredited Trusted Supplier, with deliverables including samples, test data, and design collateral to the USG. Phase III focuses on further refining designs and integrating the technology into specific military applications such as radar, communications, sensors, and electronic warfare, supporting USG validation and field deployment. The program emphasizes dual-use applications and requires contractors to make designed IP accessible to the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) or commercial partners with a licensing fee under $50k per instantiation.
    This government RFP, DMEA254-P001, seeks proposals for designing, developing, and demonstrating a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) using GlobalFoundries' 200-mm Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) technology (130RFG1). The objective is to enhance output power density, linearity, and efficiency in radio communication systems for both military and commercial applications. The project addresses the current lack of monolithic 200-mm GaN-on-Si solutions for scaled integration of PAs and LNAs, leveraging GaN's superior physical properties for higher performance and efficiency compared to traditional silicon-based technologies. Phase I requires demonstrating feasibility through design, simulation, and assessment of the GaN-on-Si process, models, and components, along with proposing packaging and testing activities. Phase II involves DMEA-accredited contractors designing, fabricating, and characterizing functional LNA and PA prototypes that meet DMEA specifications for dual-use applications, with deliverables including detailed reports, design collaterals, and access to intellectual property. Phase III focuses on further refining designs and integrating the technology into specific military applications like radar, communications, and electronic warfare, supporting field use transition.
    This government RFP, DMEA254-P001, seeks proposals for designing, developing, and demonstrating a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) utilizing commercially available GlobalFoundries 200-mm Gallium Nitride on Silicon (GaN-on-Si) technology (130RFG1). The objective is to enhance output power density, linearity, and efficiency in radio communication systems for both military and commercial applications. The project addresses the current lack of monolithic 200-mm GaN-on-Si technology solutions for scaled integration of RF frontend (RFE) circuitry, leveraging GaN's superior physical properties for high output power and efficiency. Phase I requires demonstrating feasibility through design, simulation, and assessment of the GaN-on-Si technology, including design flow, architecture, and integration impacts. Phase II focuses on designing, fabricating, packaging, and testing functional LNA and PA prototypes, with specific performance requirements and delivery of design collaterals to the US Government. Phase III involves further refining designs and integrating the technology into military applications like radar, communications, sensors, and electronic warfare, with opportunities for commercialization.
    Please provide the text or document you would like summarized.
    Similar Opportunities
    Affordable Ka-Band Metamaterial-Based Electronically Scanned Array Radar for Test and Training -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Army, is seeking proposals for the development of affordable Ka-Band radar solutions utilizing metamaterial-based electronically scanned array (AESA) technology. The primary objective is to create low-cost, high-performance Ka-Band radars that can effectively emulate threat representative systems, addressing the current prohibitive costs associated with existing solutions. These radars are intended for various applications, including environmental monitoring, civil security, maritime operations, healthcare, and disaster monitoring. Interested parties can submit Phase I proposals with a budget of up to $250,000 for a six-month performance period, with the application due by December 10, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation agency's website at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Pulsed High-power Laser Accelerators to Study radiation Hardening (PHLASH) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, through DARPA, is seeking proposals for the Pulsed High-power Laser Accelerators to Study Radiation Hardening (PHLASH) program, which aims to develop a compact, high-energy electron accelerator system for radiation testing of microelectronic systems in space environments. The primary objective is to demonstrate a prototype scalable laser driver for electron beam generation, targeting a 100-GeV system within a compact 250 m³ footprint, utilizing laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA) technology. This initiative is critical for enhancing the reliability of space-based microelectronics, as current testing facilities are inadequate to meet demand. Interested parties must submit Direct to Phase II proposals by December 10, 2025, with the program's release date set for September 3, 2025, and further details available at the official solicitation link.
    Far Forward Manufacturing of CBRN Sensors -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense is seeking innovative solutions for the Far Forward Manufacturing (FFM) of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) sensors. The objective is to develop sensors that are minimal in size, weight, and power consumption, capable of being manufactured on-demand with limited logistical footprints, thereby providing near real-time threat awareness to warfighters. This initiative aims to transition away from brittle supply chains towards point-of-need manufacturing, utilizing advanced techniques such as 3D printing and biomanufacturing. Interested parties should note that Phase I requires a proof of concept for a functional CBRN sensor, while Phase II will focus on finalizing production processes and demonstrating a production run of at least 20 sensing products within 24 hours. The program also offers potential enhancements of up to $500,000 in matching SBIR funding for successful transitions into DoD acquisition or commercial sectors. Key deadlines include an open date of November 19, 2025, and a close date of December 10, 2025, with further details available at the solicitation agency's website.
    Affordable IR Sensors for Proliferated LEO Missile Tracking Constellation -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF), through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is seeking innovative solutions for affordable midwave infrared (MWIR) sensor technologies aimed at enhancing missile detection and tracking capabilities within the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). The primary objective is to develop a complete sensor prototype that operates in the 3–5 µm band, demonstrates sensitivity to missile plumes, and maintains radiation tolerance for at least five years in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), all while achieving a cost reduction of at least 30% compared to existing space-qualified IR sensors. This initiative is critical for ensuring effective missile warning and tracking capabilities, leveraging advanced materials and manufacturing processes to enable scalable production. Interested parties should note that the application period opens on November 19, 2025, with proposals due by December 10, 2025, and further details can be found at the official solicitation link: https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Silencing with Acoustic Rainbow Emitters (SWARE) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Special Operations Command (SOCOM), is seeking innovative research and development proposals for a low-cost Acoustic Rainbow Emitter (ARE) aimed at significantly reducing the acoustic signature of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). The primary objective is to create an ARE that can redirect and alter the frequencies of a UAS's acoustic emissions, making them inaudible to humans and enhancing operational stealth for Special Operations Forces in tactical environments. This initiative is crucial for maintaining stealth during military operations, particularly as UxS operations increase at the tactical level. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on November 19, 2025, with proposals due by December 10, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link.
    Technology Maturation to Support Commercial De-Orbit as a Service for pLEO Constellations -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF), through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is seeking innovative solutions to develop commercial De-Orbit as a Service (DaaS) capabilities for managing proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) satellite constellations. The primary objective is to mature key technologies that will reduce technical and operational risks associated with DaaS offerings, focusing on validating rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) technologies, demonstrating universal capture mechanisms, and evaluating collision avoidance strategies. This initiative is crucial for establishing a commercially viable U.S.-based DaaS ecosystem, enhancing long-term resilience, safety, and sustainability in LEO for both defense and commercial operators. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on November 19, 2025, with proposals due by December 10, 2025, and can find more information at the provided source link.
    Acoustic-based UAS Rainbow Oscillation Refraction Architecture (AURORA) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Special Operations Command (SOCOM), is seeking innovative research and development proposals for an acoustic-based communications system designed for small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS) operating in swarms. The primary objective is to enable these sUAS to communicate and exchange information about their relative positions using sound generated by their propellers, facilitating intra-swarm communication and enhancing situational awareness. This technology is crucial for military applications where multiple drones operate collaboratively without relying on GPS or radio frequencies. Interested parties should prepare to conduct a feasibility study in Phase I, followed by prototype development in Phase II, with the solicitation opening on November 19, 2025, and closing on December 10, 2025. For more information, visit the official solicitation page at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Secure Multi-Source Data Fusion Environment for pLEO Constellations -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF), through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is seeking innovative solutions for a Secure Multi-Source Data Fusion Environment tailored for proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) constellations. The objective is to develop a secure, adaptable software environment capable of ingesting, integrating, and analyzing high-volume, low-latency data streams from diverse space-based sources, enhancing real-time situational awareness and advanced analytics for the Department of Defense. This initiative is critical for supporting the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) and aims to improve decision-making agility while adhering to zero-trust security principles and enabling multi-vendor participation. Interested parties should prepare proposals for Phase II, with applications due by December 10, 2025, and can find more information at the official solicitation link: https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Li-ion 6T Battery Focused Open Topic -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Army, is seeking innovative solutions from small businesses through the Li-ion 6T Battery Focused Open Topic under the SBIR program. This initiative aims to address critical technical challenges related to MIL-PRF-32565 Li-ion 6T batteries, focusing on areas such as wireless power beaming for battery charging, advanced materials for fire mitigation, AI-driven battery maintenance tools, and devices for safely combining batteries of varying specifications. These advancements are crucial for enhancing military fuel efficiency, reducing weight, and improving energy density and cycle life of battery systems. Phase I proposals are invited with a funding cap of $250,000 for a six-month feasibility study, with key deadlines including an application due date of December 10, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website.
    Novel Technologies for CWMD and Related Threats - Open Topic -
    DOD
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking innovative technologies through its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to enhance the detection of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and related threats. The primary objective is to develop solutions that utilize existing general-purpose military hardware, commercially available devices, and publicly accessible data sources to detect radiological or nuclear threats, rather than relying on specialized sensors. This initiative is crucial for addressing the challenges associated with the high costs and lengthy timelines of developing new military hardware for WMD detection, particularly given the limited commercial market for such equipment. The solicitation is currently in the pre-release phase, with an open date set for November 19, 2025, and a close date of December 10, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the DOD SBIR website.