Intel Expands RAMP-C Project, Welcoming New Clients for U.S. Defense Initiatives

Intel Foundry partners with Trusted Semiconductor Solutions and Reliable MicroSystems in the third phase of the RAMP-C initiative, aiming to enhance national security and economic growth through advanced semiconductor manufacturing.

Collaboration with Trusted Semiconductor Solutions and Reliable MicroSystems
Enhancing national security and economic growth through technological innovation
Accelerating design time and providing early access to the latest semiconductor innovations

Intel Foundry Welcomes New Partners in Defense

Exciting news from the tech world! Intel Foundry has just announced that it’s bringing two new players into its fold: Trusted Semiconductor Solutions and Reliable MicroSystems. They’re stepping aboard as part of the third phase of the Rapid Assured Microelectronics Prototypes – Commercial (RAMP-C) initiative. This program falls under the Trusted & Assured Microelectronics (T&AM) umbrella, which is managed by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD (R&E)). Sounds like a mouthful, right? But stick with me—this is a big deal for the defense industrial base (DIB) and the future of semiconductor technology in the U.S.

What’s RAMP-C All About?

So, what’s the RAMP-C project all about? It’s a strategic effort that allows DIB customers to leverage Intel Foundry’s Intel 18A process technology and advanced packaging. This means they can prototype and manufacture high-volume products tailored for both commercial use and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). It’s all part of a broader mission to enhance national security and bolster economic growth through technological innovation.

Kapil Wadhera, Intel Foundry’s VP and general manager of the Aerospace, Defense, and Government Business Group, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “We are very excited to welcome Trusted Semiconductor Solutions and Reliable MicroSystems to the RAMP-C project.” He emphasized how this collaboration will foster secure semiconductor solutions that are vital for the nation’s security and technological leadership. It’s clear that Intel is positioning itself as a linchpin in the U.S. defense landscape.

Intel’s Role in National Security

As the only U.S. company that designs and manufactures leading-edge semiconductor technology, Intel is playing a crucial role in enhancing the country’s economic competitiveness and national security. By teaming up on the RAMP-C initiative, Intel Foundry and the DoD are accelerating the growth of advanced semiconductor manufacturing right here in the U.S. This is particularly important as global supply chains continue to face challenges. With Intel’s expansion of its 18A fabrication capabilities, we’re looking at a more resilient and sustainable source for microelectronics devices.

Dr. Catherine Cotell, the T&AM program manager at OUSD (R&E), highlighted the ongoing importance of RAMP-C, stating, “It continues to promote development of leading-edge microelectronics for both DoD and commercial applications.” It’s all about strengthening national security while also supporting advanced semiconductor design and manufacturing in the U.S.

How Intel Foundry is Innovating

Intel Foundry isn’t just about high-tech jargon; it’s about practical solutions that meet real-world needs. Under the RAMP-C umbrella, they’re enabling strategic customers and various service providers to accelerate design time using Intel’s state-of-the-art technologies. This means that DIB customers can gain early access to the latest semiconductor innovations, which is crucial for meeting the defense industry’s stringent requirements for size, weight, and power.

The Intel 18A technology is particularly noteworthy. It represents the company’s most significant transistor innovation since they introduced FinFET technology back in 2011. With features like PowerVia backside power and RibbonFET gate-all-around technologies, it significantly boosts performance per watt and density. Plus, DIB customers can tap into advanced packaging solutions, such as the embedded multi-die interconnect bridge (EMIB), to tackle today’s complex computing challenges.

RAMP-C’s Journey So Far

Since its launch in October 2021, RAMP-C has made impressive strides. Here’s a quick look at its journey:

Foundation Building

: Intel Foundry spearheaded efforts to develop technology and create intellectual property, setting the stage for customer test chip tape-outs.

Expansion and Onboarding

: The program expanded its customer base, bringing in major DIB players like Boeing and Northrop Grumman. Intel Foundry has ramped up its IP and ecosystem solutions, enabling new customers to design and develop using Intel 18A technology.

Advanced Prototyping and Manufacturing

: With a new program award in April 2024, Intel Foundry is now advancing the tape-out and testing of early DIB product prototypes. This phase showcases the readiness of Intel 18A for high-volume manufacturing, marking a significant milestone for its latest DIB partners.

In a world where technology and national security are increasingly intertwined, Intel Foundry’s initiatives like RAMP-C are crucial. They’re not just creating chips—they’re shaping the future of defense technology in the U.S. and beyond. What do you think about the role of semiconductor technology in national security?

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About Intel:

Intel Corporation, a global technology leader, is for its semiconductor innovations that power computing and communication devices worldwide. As a pioneer in microprocessor technology, Intel has left an indelible mark on the evolution of computing with its processors that drive everything from PCs to data centers and beyond. With a history of advancements, Intel's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the digital landscape, offering solutions that empower businesses and individuals to achieve new levels of productivity and connectivity.

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Technology Explained

Foundry: A foundry is a dedicated manufacturing facility focused on producing semiconductor components like integrated circuits (ICs) for external clients. These foundries are pivotal in the semiconductor industry, providing diverse manufacturing processes and technologies to create chips based on designs from fabless semiconductor firms or other customers. This setup empowers companies to concentrate on innovative design without needing substantial investments in manufacturing infrastructure. Some well-known foundries include TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company), Samsung Foundry, GlobalFoundries, and UMC (United Microelectronics Corporation).