The Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), a key unit under India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has achieved a critical breakthrough in semiconductor technology by developing indigenous methods for producing 4-inch Silicon Carbide (SiC) wafers and fabricating Gallium Nitride (GaN) High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs) with power outputs reaching up to 150W.
These advancements include the development of Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) with power capabilities up to 40W, extending to X-band frequencies, according to the Ministry of Defence. This cutting-edge GaN/SiC technology is poised to play a crucial role in next-generation defence, aerospace, and green energy solutions, marking a significant step forward in India’s technological capabilities.
The Indigenous GaN/SiC technology developed by SSPL offers numerous advantages, such as improved energy efficiency, reduced device size and weight, and enhanced performance—key features for modern defence systems, radar, electronic warfare, and sustainable energy applications. This development represents a substantial leap in critical defence and clean energy areas, aligning with India’s strategic objectives.
Proud Milestone for India’s #AatmanirbharBharat journey! @DRDO_India's Solid State Physics Lab has developed indigenous 4-inch SiC wafers & GaN HEMTs up to 150W, paving the way for advanced combat, RADAR, electronic warfare, and green energy applications. GaN/SiC tech enables… pic.twitter.com/Mh5TIohB1t
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) November 11, 2024
These advancements directly address the growing need for compact and lightweight power systems in future military applications, enabling robust communication, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and autonomous systems. Beyond the defence sector, this technology holds potential for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems, supporting India’s green energy goals.
Indigenous production of GaN on SiC-based MMICs has been successfully established at GAETEC (Gallium Arsenide Enabling Technology Centre) in Hyderabad. These versatile MMICs are set to support a wide range of applications, including next-generation strategic systems, space exploration, aerospace, and 5G/satellite communications, positioning India as a key player in the global semiconductor technology landscape.
Team BharatShakti
