In August 2025, Filtronic secured a GBP47.3 million (US$63.2 million) contract from SpaceX — one of the company’s largest equipment orders — to supply next-generation GaN E-band solid-state power amplifiers for the Starlink satellite network. The UK-based high-frequency RF and millimeter-wave technology firm, founded in 1977, has long served defense and telecommunications customers. It presented its latest SSPA product line at the 2026 UK Space Communications Expo.

In the global humanoid robotics race, the US leads in AI algorithms and large models — the “brain” of intelligent machines. China dominates hardware manufacturing and component supply chains. The rivalry between the two powers is already taking shape.

The Middle East conflict is scorching more than just the region. Disrupted shipping lanes and tightening energy supplies are driving up costs across the printed circuit board (PCB) industry — from raw materials to manufacturing to final pricing.