KEYNOTE: From Components to Turn-Key Systems: Innovations in Aerospace Through Heterogeneous Integration

Recent advances in key areas such as low-loss RF materials, monolithic devices, ceramics, printed wiring board processing and heterogeneously integrated electronics are driving significant innovations in aerospace systems across terrestrial, airborne, naval and space environments. The burgeoning commercial communication market has made RF integrated circuits (RFICs) widely accessible to consumers, allowing easy access to the latest technologies. Additionally, enhancements in computing power and the availability of full-wave commercial simulation software have empowered independent contributors to participate in this evolving landscape. Once considered cutting edge, multi-mode, wideband phased arrays have now become accessible commodities. Researchers are now focusing on higher operating frequencies and developing complete turn-key systems rather than isolated components. Furthermore, interdisciplinary teams are now integrating machine learning, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies to enhance system capabilities. The convergence of these advances is fostering the creation of unprecedented low-latency communication networks, large-scale distributed sensor grids, and autonomous swarms of unmanned platforms.