Optical Zonu launches miniature Ku-band RF-over-fiber transmitter for defense systems

Optical Zonu has introduced a compact RF-over-fiber transmitter built for high-density defense and aerospace platforms, including phased array antennas, SATCOM terminals and radar systems. The new module is designed to move Ku-band signals into fiber at the antenna, reducing cabling limits in space-constrained military environments.

Why it matters: - Defense and aerospace systems are packing more RF capability into tighter spaces, making coaxial cabling harder to route and maintain. - Optical Zonu's new module is designed to move high-frequency Ku-band signals over fiber at the antenna, which can reduce signal loss and simplify integration. - The product targets platforms where space, weight and routing constraints can affect performance.

What happened: - Optical Zonu Corporation announced the availability of its Miniature Ku-Band RFoF Transmitter on July 28, 2026. - The OEM module is built for direct integration into phased array antennas, SATCOM terminals, radar systems and other high-density RF platforms. - The company says the transmitter is the industry's smallest RF-over-fiber transmitter for Ku-band use.

The details: - The module measures about 2.25 x 1.0 inches. - It transports RF frequencies up to 18 GHz with high spur-free dynamic range and low-noise optical transmission. - The transmitter supports both 1310 nm and 1550 nm optical wavelengths. - The product supports DWDM configurations for long-distance transport and complex RF distribution architectures. - The transmitter uses a fiber-pigtailed design for flexible installation. - Fixed-gain operation works from -20°C to +65°C, and extended-temperature options are available. - The transmitter is intended for microwave antenna distribution, multi-band SATCOM, electronic warfare, shipboard RF distribution and frequency distribution systems. - The module is designed to work with all industry-standard RFoF receivers. - Optical Zonu says pairing the transmitter with an Optical Zonu receiver provides optimum end-to-end performance and maximum dynamic range. - The company says the transmitter can be customized for defense and aerospace applications that need specialized optical wavelengths, environmental specifications or system configurations. - More information is available on Optical Zonu's website.

Between the lines: - The launch reflects continued demand for denser antenna architectures and more fiber-based RF transport in military systems. - Pushing optical conversion closer to the antenna can help system designers avoid the limits of traditional RF cabling in constrained platforms. - The emphasis on OEM integration and customization suggests the product is aimed at embedded defense programs rather than off-the-shelf field replacements.

What's next: - Optical Zonu says the Miniature Ku-Band RFoF Transmitter is available now. - The company expects defense and aerospace customers to tailor the module for wavelength, environment and system needs. - The product is positioned for use in phased array radar, Common Data Link systems, shipboard communications, submarine periscopes, SATCOM terminals, electronic warfare systems and large unmanned aerial vehicles.

The bottom line: - Optical Zonu is betting that smaller, fiber-based RF transport hardware will be a better fit for next-generation military antennas and other space-constrained platforms.