Monday, June 30, 2008

Nanosensor tech gets boost from BAE Systems collaboration

By Mass High Tech Staff

BAE Systems reports it will co-produce nanosensor technology with a Canadian company.

BAE Systems’ microelectronics center in Nashua, N.H. will develop the advanced magnetic random-access memory (MRAM) product designs of Toronto-based Micromem Applied Sensor Technologies Inc. BAE said its goal is to refine the designs and begin production of gallium arsenide-based nano-sensors that offer high-speed and low-power capability, radiation-hardness and overall robustness.

Micromem’s submicron nanosensor, based on MRAM technology, can also be implemented in magnetometers, which measure the strength and direction of magnetic fields, and for threat-detection for the defense and homeland security markets, according to BAE.

Last week, BAE Systems landed almost $32 million for electronic countermeasure systems from the U.S. Navy. In May, the defense company landed a $60 million order to provide thermal imaging modules to Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace AS under a U.S. Army contract.

BAE Systems is the U.S. subsidiary of United Kingdom-based BAE Systems PLC (LON: BA) and is headquartered in Rockville, Md. BAE Systems PLC employs 97,500 people worldwide.