Filtronic defence semiconductor work earns government recognition as Leeds University spin-out continues rapid growth

Filtronic, the AIM-listed RF specialist originally spun out of the University of Leeds, has been highlighted by UK Defence Innovation for a breakthrough in Filtronic defence semiconductor packaging that could reshape how radar and electronic warfare systems are built. The government case study, published this week, credits the company with solving a longstanding engineering problem — housing high-power gallium nitride semiconductors in compact plastic rather than bulky ceramic.

What have Filtronic developed?

Funded through the Defence Technology Exploitation Programme, Filtronic developed a new type of plastic packaging called Quad Flat No-lead that is smaller, lighter, and better at managing heat. The practical effect is that more semiconductors can fit into the same space, delivering greater power in a smaller footprint. The government describes the Filtronic defence semiconductor work as a step towards strengthening the UK’s independence in critical defence technology.

“Defence and space are high-growth sectors with strong demand for sovereign, UK-based supply chains. With most of our design and manufacturing conducted domestically, we’re well-positioned to support national security objectives whilst continuing to innovate.”

Tudor Williams, Chief Technology Officer, Filtronic

From Leeds Lab to Global Defence Supplier

The company maintains offices at Filtronic House in Yeadon, near Leeds Bradford Airport, alongside its registered headquarters at NETPark in County Durham and a manufacturing site in the United States.

The scale of growth since the defence project began in 2022 has been substantial. According to the government case study, Filtronic has doubled its workforce, tripled its revenue, and opened a new 44,000 sq ft headquarters and manufacturing facility at NETPark in November 2025, entirely self-funded.

Why this matters for Leeds

Filtronic is one of the most significant deep-tech companies to have emerged from the University of Leeds. The company still employs staff at its Yeadon office near Leeds Bradford Airport, though its manufacturing expansion has centred on County Durham. For Leeds, Filtronic’s story reinforces the city’s credentials as a launchpad for high-value technology businesses..