The partnership looks to strengthen domestic supply and provide secure access to advanced technologies, while extending the availability and sustainability of Trusted semiconductor manufacturing in the US.
GF has a long history as a supplier of secure semiconductor solutions for the defence industry and that dovetails with SkyWater’s focus on developing capabilities for enabling critical microelectronics technologies for national security applications. SkyWater is bringing to market a 90nm Strategic Rad-Hard process technology via an up to $170m DoD investment which, when combined with diverse GF platforms, will provide a richer and broader portfolio of key defence technology offerings.
According to both companies the collaboration is also exploring possibilities for dual fab processing that would streamline access to secure technologies for US defence programs. In addition, as a part of the MOU, GF and SkyWater will align technology roadmaps and leverage unique and complementary capabilities for development and high-volume production path to market for advanced computing, artificial intelligence and related technologies.
“SkyWater’s strategic relationship with the U.S. government provides distinct value and through this developing partnership accelerates our collective commitment to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities while streamlining access for aerospace and defence clients,” said Mike Hogan, senior vice president and general manager of AIM SBU and Aerospace and Defense at GF. “As Trusted semiconductor manufacturers, we are in a unique position to extend the availability of advanced technologies, while ensuring a secure eco-system for dual domestic sourcing to serve the U.S. government and its technology needs for the future.”
Commenting Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), said, “This partnership helps strengthen a secure supply chain for our nation’s most sensitive technology. The agreement announced today will improve U.S. competitiveness and leadership in this vital sector.”
