Photonics

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. REC 2's photonics portfolio is built around this convergence, 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.