GaN-on-SiC vs. GaN-on-Si: Emerging Opportunities and Market Dynamics in the RF GaN Industry

The RF GaN device market is projected to reach billion by 2029, primarily driven by defense, SATCOM, and telecom infrastructure applications. GaN-on-SiC currently dominates the market, while GaN-on-Si is maturing and could unlock new opportunities for RF GaN. Infineon has commercialized an 8″ GaN-on-Si PA module for the telecom infrastructure market, while GlobalFoundries’ partnership with Finwave aims to develop GaN-on-Si technology for the FR3 handset market. The question remains: will GaN-on-Si compete with GaN-on-SiC, or will it create new market opportunities that GaN-on-SiC does not address?