The primary objective of the program has been the development of high-performance, affordable microwave and millimeter wave technology for building electronic systems. These circuits have multiple applications in both defense and commercial products. The partnership has established a solid design and manufacturing infrastructure for MMIC technology. This partnership's successes to date can be measured by the success of the MMIC industry and supporting industry. More than six MMIC program participants are providing foundry services to multiple customers worldwide.
Test equipment developed under the program defines the state of the art.
Several package vendors are now available to support the MMIC industry. Even more, MMICs are a key enabler for greatly improved performance of defense systems. MMIC technology insertion into the guidance system of the Patriot advanced tactical missile has increased the detection of targets by a factor of two, reduced the missile tracking errors for much greater accuracy in hitting targets, and improved the ability to find low cross-section targets. My second example of DoD leveraging the commercial industrial base through partnerships is in the materials industry. The resulting partnerships with industry and universities have been extremely beneficial to DoD and industry alike.