Overview
Photonic integrated circuits use light rather than electrons to process and transmit information, enabling speeds and energy efficiencies that silicon electronics cannot match. REC 2 is investing in photonic chip design, fabrication and integration — targeting applications in AI accelerators, quantum computing interfaces, LiDAR systems and ultra-fast optical communications.
The convergence of photonics with AI hardware is creating a new paradigm in computing. Optical neural networks can perform matrix multiplications — the fundamental operation in deep learning — at the speed of light with near-zero energy cost. Data centre demand is scaling faster than conventional electronic interconnects and cooling infrastructure can keep up with, and REC 2's photonics thesis is built around bringing solutions to data centres that are struggling to meet that bar — targeting the data centre, defence and automotive markets.
Defence applications are particularly compelling: photonic chips enable laser-based directed energy weapons, hypersonic vehicle guidance systems, and quantum key distribution networks that are immune to classical computing attacks. REC 2's dual-use approach maximises the strategic and commercial value of photonic technology investments.
Why REC 2 is Investing Here
Photonic chip market is growing at 25% CAGR, driven by AI infrastructure buildout and defence modernisation programmes.
REC 2's position across chips, defence and materials provides unique access to both military and commercial photonics programmes.
Pratham Shrivastav's deep tech expertise in photonic systems enables technical due diligence at the frontier of the field.
Team