Greek semiconductor design company Circuits Integrated Hellas has joined Space South Central, one of the U.K.s’ largest regional space clusters, to strengthen its ties with the U.K.’s growing semiconductor and space manufacturing sectors.
The company, which specialises in advanced integrated circuit (IC), antenna-in-package and system-in-package (SiP) design, will establish its first U.K. presence at Surrey Research Park, expanding its R&D operations to support development of next-generation chip technology for space and defence communications.
Circuits Integrated’s U.K. expansion centres on KythrionTM, its flagship chipset platform designed to improve the performance, efficiency and sustainability of flat panel antennas used in satellite communications and related dual-use applications. The technology integrates compound (III-V) semiconductors such as GaAs or GaN with silicon within a 3D SiP structure. This significantly reduces antenna size, weight, power and cost by more than 60 percent compared with conventional designs.
The result is a more compact, efficient and robust platform for satellite and defence applications, capable of supporting the next wave of high-throughput communications networks in low-Earth orbit and beyond.
The approach allows both transmit and receive functions to be co-integrated directly within the antenna element, simplifying system architecture and improving thermal performance while remaining compatible with standard manufacturing processes. Radiation-resistant materials further extend satellite lifespan, offering sustainability benefits for operators looking to cut launch costs and reduce hardware turnover.
Kythrion is currently undergoing packaging and stress validation, with early-stage demonstrators expected in late 2026 and general availability in mid-2027. Circuits Integrated plans to collaborate with U.K. partners in research, prototyping, and advanced manufacturing as it expands its local team to between 20 and 40 engineers within two years following product deployment.
Carl McMahon, chief commercial officer at Circuits Integrated, said, “Establishing our U.K. base within the Space South Central cluster is a very exciting moment for the company. The region offers a world-class mix of semiconductor expertise, manufacturing capability and academic strength. By integrating into this ecosystem, we can accelerate the commercialisation of our KythrionTM technology and play our part in advancing the U.K.’s semiconductor and space sectors.”
Dr. Paolo Fioravanti, Circuits Integrated CEO, added, “The U.K.’s history in RF and compound semiconductor engineering, alongside strong academic links and established facilities, provides an ideal environment for developing KythrionTM from R&D to production. There’s a depth of expertise in RF and IC design here that will help us scale rapidly as we move into validation and early production.”
Antonia Yendell, head of Space Ecosystem Development at the U.K. Space Agency, said, “We are delighted to welcome Circuits Integrated as the newest member of the Space South Central cluster. Their expertise in compound semiconductor and silicon technologies will further strengthen the U.K..’ space manufacturing sector, catalyse investment and create new opportunities throughout the space ecosystem. The support, insight and partnerships that can be accessed via a local space cluster — supported by the U.K. Space Agency — represent the best possible landing pad for any international space company looking to establish a presence in the U.K.”
By locating within the Space South Central cluster, Circuits Integrated gains direct access to one of the U.K..’ most vibrant innovation communities, linking its advanced design expertise with leading research institutions and commercial partners across space, defence and communications.
Tobias Marchant, international partnership manager for Space South Central, said, “Circuits Integrated’s arrival reflects our growing strength in semiconductor innovation for the space and defence sectors. The company’s integration of compound semiconductor and silicon technologies supports the U.K..’ ambition to build sovereign, sustainable capability in critical communications and sensing technologies.”