Digital communications firm to open R&D and production facility

A developer of new wireless broadband solutions and Sheffield City Region Mayoral Combined Authority (SCR) will join forces to open a state-of-the-art telecommunications R&D Centre and production facility.

The combined authority is collaborating with CurvaLux UK to bring state-of-the-art digital communications R&D and manufacturing to the UK – with an initial investment in Sheffield.

The company is developing next-generation broadband wireless systems based on smart multi-beam phased-array antennas.

It aims to bring low-cost, high-speed internet access to rural communities and under-served urban areas.

Curvalux has been demonstrating its systems with major service providers in Asia, Middle East, and USA since 2018 with further trials planned for 2020 including Europe and South Africa.

Its patented low-energy technology reportedly avoids costly power infrastructure.

A spokesman for the project said: “The investment will bring high-quality technology jobs to Sheffield and the company plans to attract suppliers from across the UK including the Sheffield City Region.

“SCR is supporting the company’s investment with an initial R&D grant of £8m.”

Curvalux is part of Airspace Internet Exchange Inc., a company established by Tom Choi – a satellite industry executive – to pursue the next generation of low-cost satellite and wireless broadband systems.

Aimed principally at export markets, Curvalux’s technologies are also relevant to the UK’s digital infrastructure.

Choi, executive chairman of Curvalux, said: “I look forward to working with the Sheffield City Region as we develop our next generation of innovative digital solutions.

“The UK’s renewed commitment to R&D and desire to grow in global markets makes it a natural location for us.

“We expect to attract high-calibre employees and capable suppliers from across the UK and will engage with the AMRC and wider High Value Manufacturing Catapult as an integral part of our approach.”