This joint initiative aims to accelerate innovation, improve test coverage, and reduce risks for industries adopting next-generation AESA technologies, including aerospace and telecommunications.

AESA architectures are rapidly transforming radar, communications, and navigation systems, creating a need for more sophisticated and real-world-relevant test methodologies. To meet this demand, Emerson will work with VUB to develop innovative approaches for broadband characterization of RF and microwave components and subsystems used in AESA systems.

As part of the collaboration, Emerson will provide VUB with NI PXI test hardware and NI VST (Vector Signal Transceiver) instruments. These tools enable users to generate and analyze multiple channels of high-fidelity signals, facilitating researchers' validation of component behavior under realistic broadband conditions.

“Our collaboration with Vrije Universiteit Brussel underscores Emerson’s commitment to continuous improvement and the advancement of RF and microwave testing methodologies,” said René Nuessgen, Senior Director of Research and Development at Emerson. “By integrating our advanced test and measurement technologies with VUB’s expertise, we are accelerating the development of robust and scalable approaches that will drive the adoption of AESA systems in high-reliability applications.”

The collaboration also includes doctoral training, joint publications, and increased interaction between industry and academia. With a focus on advanced technology applications, the partnership will foster internal knowledge development at Emerson and contribute to the broader engineering community.

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Nuessgen and Professor Dries Peumans of the Department of Electrical Engineering at VUB signed the agreement during an official ceremony held at European Microwave Week.

Professor Peumans commented: “This collaboration with Emerson is an excellent opportunity to advance our research in broadband characterization and modeling of high-frequency components and active antenna systems. With access to Emerson’s advanced measurement infrastructure and expertise, our researchers will be able to explore new ways of measuring and understanding complex systems. We are excited about the practical innovations that will emerge from this program, especially those that may define the future of wireless communication and sensing.”