Indra Group and the GIGaNTE R&D&I Project: Pioneering GaN Technologies in Spain

Indra Group is at the forefront of a transformative initiative known as the GIGaNTE R&D&I project (Research Initiative in Gallium Nitride Technologies and Advanced Packaging Technologies). This strategic endeavor aims to equip Spain with the capabilities necessary to independently develop technologies based on gallium nitride (GaN), a material that is increasingly vital in advanced defense applications, particularly in high-reliability radar and communications systems.

The Vision Behind GIGaNTE

Launched in January 2023, the GIGaNTE project boasts a budget exceeding nine million euros and is set to span four years. Its primary goal is to establish a comprehensive value chain in Spain that encompasses everything from the design of advanced devices to their manufacture, integration, and final validation. This initiative is part of the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities’ Science and Innovation Missions Programme (PEICTI 2024–2027), managed by the Centre for Industrial Technological Development (CDTI). By focusing on GaN technologies, GIGaNTE aims to bolster Spain’s technological sovereignty in a critical strategic area, aligning with the broader European vision for compound semiconductors.

Advancements in GaN Manufacturing

At the heart of the GIGaNTE project is a proprietary GaN manufacturing process designed to facilitate the development of high-performance electronic devices and circuits. These innovations will enable operations in demanding frequency ranges, which are essential for modern defense systems. The project will focus on creating specialized integrated circuits (MMICs) and advanced integration and packaging techniques. These advancements will allow for the incorporation of GaN technologies into more compact, reliable, and efficient modules and antennas, enhancing the overall performance of defense and communication systems.

A Collaborative Consortium

The GIGaNTE initiative is not a solo endeavor; it is a collaborative effort involving a consortium led by Indra Group. Key partners include Televes Corporación, SPARC Foundry, and RBZ Robot Design, each bringing unique capabilities in advanced electronics and integrated circuit design. SPARC Foundry, in particular, offers an open industrial manufacturing platform for III-V and GaN technologies, which is crucial for scalable production capacity.

In addition to industry partners, several academic institutions are contributing to the project. The Polytechnic University of Madrid, the University of Vigo, the University of Salamanca, and the Galician Telecommunications Technology Centre (GRADIANT) are all involved, providing specialized research in GaN architectures, device characterization, and circuit integration techniques. This collaboration between industry and academia is vital for fostering innovation and ensuring the project’s success.

Strengthening Technological Sovereignty

Joaquín Ponz, Head of Portfolio and Innovation at Indra Group, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “Gallium nitride is set to transform the next generation of defense and communications systems.” By leading the GIGaNTE project, Indra Group is demonstrating its commitment to developing critical technological capabilities in Spain. The ability to develop and produce GaN technologies domestically is essential for enhancing the technological sovereignty and competitiveness of the Spanish industry, especially in a time when Europe is striving for strategic autonomy.

Boosting the Chip Ecosystem

GIGaNTE is a crucial part of Indra Group’s broader strategy to strengthen national capabilities in core technologies. This commitment is further exemplified through SPARC Foundry, where Indra holds a 37% stake. In June 2025, Indra announced its entry into SPARC’s capital to spearhead the design and production of GaN-based chips and other III-V technologies in Spain. This initiative positions Spain among the leaders in Europe in photonic and radio frequency semiconductors.

In January 2023, Indra took a significant step by commencing construction on Spain’s first GaN chip factory in Vigo. This pioneering facility is set to enhance technological sovereignty and lay the groundwork for future advanced systems in the defense and aerospace sectors. The establishment of this industrial infrastructure is integral to the project’s future manufacturing capabilities and is part of the development of the SPARC Foundry technology platform.

Conclusion

The GIGaNTE project represents a significant leap forward for Spain in the realm of advanced technologies. By fostering collaboration between industry leaders and academic institutions, Indra Group is not only enhancing the country’s capabilities in GaN technologies but also contributing to a more robust and self-sufficient technological ecosystem in Europe. As the project unfolds, it promises to pave the way for innovations that will have far-reaching implications for defense and communication systems, ultimately strengthening Spain’s position in the global technology landscape.