GlobalFoundries will manufacture BAE Systems’ radiation-hardened RAD510 System-on-Chip for space.

The British arms manufacturer said that its new SoC will have twice the performance capability of the RAD750 microprocessor, first launched into space back in 2005. Both are based on PowerPC and are Power Architecture software compatible.

The RAD750 was used in the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, Van Allen Probes, and Curiosity and Perseverance rovers, among others.

“The RAD510 SBC is the natural evolution of our RAD750 heritage microprocessor-based SBC, which has powered many of the most important national space assets,” said Ricardo Gonzalez, director of Space Systems at BAE Systems.

“These high-reliability computers increase performance capability for satellites and other spacecraft, making space missions more effective. BAE Systems’ relationship with GlobalFoundries began in 2001 with the development of the highly successful RH25 semiconductor technology node.”

The RAD510 SBC requires less power and has the radiation advantages of RH45 45nm silicon-on-isolator (SOI) technology, BAE said.

The SoCs are manufactured at GF’s Fab 10 facility in East Fishkill, New York, a US Department of Defense Category 1A Microelectronics Trusted Source. GF and BAE Systems are transitioning the manufacturing of 45 nm SOI technology to GF’s Fab 8 in Malta, New York.

“We are proud to work with BAE Systems and leverage the performance, reliability, and energy efficiency of our 45nm semiconductor platform to meet the stringent requirements of space,” said Mike Hogan, SVP and GM of Automotive, Industrial and Multi-market at GF.

“As the industry leader in semiconductors for sensitive aerospace and defense applications, GF knows what it takes to develop and manufacture solutions requiring the highest levels of security.”