Evolving ASTRO for Next-Generation SIGINT Operations
06/08/2025
At Slipstream Engineering Design, we’re continually advancing the frontier of high-performance Digital & RF systems to meet the dynamic needs of modern defence and security operations.
With a focus on understanding and mapping the electromagnetic spectrum for operational advantage, Slipstream Design appreciates that knowledge and analysis of RF spectrum, as well as the ability to adapt in response, is critical in the modern, congested electromagnetic environment.
As we look ahead to DSEI 2025, we’re excited to unveil the next evolution of our flagship platform, ASTRO, our ultra-low SWAP, wideband plug-and-play radar processor.
Focused on agility, synchronisation, and field readiness, we’re introducing a powerful suite of enhancements to the ASTRO ecosystem which provide powerful integration for modern RF SIGINT, including spectrum monitoring and data-driven analysis to enable mission-critical connectivity and rapid RF system development.
New Capabilities in ASTRO’s RF System-on-Chip Core
We’ve integrated three critical new features into ASTRO’s already robust RF System-on-Chip (RFSoC) on-the-edge processor core.
1. Agile Switching Between Complex Waveforms
We’ve already demonstrated ASTRO’s ability to handle complex waveform types, including 5G, radar, and satellite communications, and switch between them on the fly.
This enables rapid transitions between diverse RF environments, supporting dynamic mission profiles.
ASTRO can process waveforms without necessarily identifying them, meaning it can facilitate the handling of any third party waveforms as they approach in the field, responding to active mission changes for operational advantage.
2. Multi-Waveform Synchronisation for Adaptive Beamforming
By synchronising RF channels across multiple waveforms, this feature enables the deployment of advanced phased array systems and adaptive digital beamforming or spatial filtering techniques.
This allows users to dynamically steer and shape radar beams with high precision, improving target detection, tracking, and interference rejection in real time.
As a result, operators benefit from greater situational awareness, increased radar sensitivity and resolution, and enhanced performance in cluttered or contested environments, which are critical for mission safety and success.
3. RF Spectrum Capture and Processing with SigMF
Seamless support for SigMF (Signal Metadata Format) unlocks powerful real-time and offline analysis tools.
By using an open standard for describing recorded RF signal data (its source, frequency and sample rate, capture, details, and offering optimal annotations), this enables easy sharing and reproducibility of signal collections, making learning from signals much easier through reconnaissance and analysis.
This is achieved through using a JSON-based metadata file paired with binary IQ recording.
These three new ASTRO features represent Slipstream Design’s deep understanding of how to achieve high-end RF performance for optimal signal intelligence gathering. It allows our customers to focus on what they do best: system-level development and understanding the operational changes needed for success.
Introducing ASTRO: Ruggedised for the Field
In parallel with these software and signal chain enhancements, we’re launching a ruggedised, deployable form factor. Designed for edge performance in contested environments, it brings ASTRO’s full capabilities from the lab to live operational deployment.
Further announcements will be coming soon, so watch this space!
See ASTRO in Action at DSEI 2025
Join us at DSEI 2025, Pod 26 in the Make UK Defence Pavilion (North Hall), where we’ll be demonstrating the latest developments across the ASTRO platform—designed for scalable SIGINT, real-time RF intelligence, and accelerated beamforming deployment.
Whether you’re developing next-gen ISR systems or seeking to modernise existing RF infrastructure, ASTRO is ready to meet mission needs at the edge and on the ground.
