Fraunhofer Segment for Defense and Security VVS
III-V semiconductor and diamond-based technologies, components and systems for protection, reconnaissance and security
Fraunhofer IAF specializes in III-V compound semiconductors and synthetic diamond and conducts applied research and development along the entire value chain — from materials research, design and processing to the realization of components, modules and systems as prototypes or small series. The Institute’s broad range of topics includes electronics, optoelectronics and quantum technologies. In each area, research teams are committed to security and defense applications in all dimensions (land, sea, air/space, cyber) and are oriented towards current threat scenarios (hypersonic weapon systems, drone swarms).
Electronics, optoelectronics, quantum technologies
For example, researchers realize high-frequency electronic amplifiers for broadband or long-range communication links or powerful jammers in the millimeter wave range. Activities in optoelectronics range from detector arrays for high-resolution sensor systems to infrared lasers that can be used in real-time hazardous substance detection or to implement directed counter measures. Researchers are also working on quantum technologies for GNSS-independent navigation, real-time analysis of high-frequency signals (quantum sensor technology in each case) and information security through quantum key distribution (quantum communication) and quantum algorithms (quantum computing).
Cooperation and infrastructure
In its activities, the institute cooperates closely at national and European level with public institutions (Bundeswehr, police, BMVg, EDF) and the security and defense industry. With its unique research infrastructure, which includes a 1000 m2 clean room, and the excellent know-how of its researchers, Fraunhofer IAF contributes to maintaining and expanding Europe’s technological sovereignty in the fields of semiconductors, diamond and microelectronics.