The Biden-Harris Administration has awarded Intel Corporation up to $3 billion in funding under the CHIPS and Science Act for the Secure Enclave program, designed to strengthen the U.S. semiconductor supply chain. This program aims to expand the domestic manufacturing of advanced semiconductors for the U.S. government, enhancing national security and technological resilience.
Building on past collaborations with the Department of Defense (DoD) such as the RAMP-C and SHIP programs, Intel will play a pivotal role in ensuring secure and trusted production of leading-edge logic chips. As the only U.S. company that both designs and manufactures these chips, Intel’s involvement is critical to safeguarding the nation’s semiconductor supply chain.
The Secure Enclave funding is distinct from Intel’s previous agreements with the Biden-Harris Administration, including funding for the construction and modernization of semiconductor fabrication facilities under the CHIPS and Science Act.
Chris George, president of Intel Federal, highlighted the company’s commitment to bolstering the defense sector: “This award emphasizes our dedication to supporting the U.S. government in maintaining leadership in advanced manufacturing and microelectronics.”
Intel’s Foundry Services is accelerating the development of Intel 18A, its most advanced semiconductor process technology, with production scheduled for 2025. This technology will be central to future DoD systems and enhance critical U.S. defense infrastructure. Intel’s semiconductor facilities in Arizona, New Mexico, Ohio, and Oregon are at the forefront of these advancements, contributing to research and development and manufacturing efforts.
Intel has a history of collaboration with the DoD, including its involvement in the SHIP program, which grants the U.S. government access to cutting-edge semiconductor packaging. The company is also part of the RAMP-C program, providing commercial foundry services for custom DoD circuits. Intel has already onboarded major defense partners like Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Microsoft, IBM, Nvidia, and others for early product prototypes.
Intel continues to push forward in securing its position as a critical player in the U.S. semiconductor supply chain, reinforcing national security through technological innovation.