Defense technologies that span multifunction sensing, electronic warfare, communications, and radar demand the most advanced microchips to outpace evolving threats and stay ahead of current technology. A focus on smaller size, energy efficiency, tighter packaging, and most importantly – speed – set the tone for success.

For decades, much of the world’s semiconductor production migrated offshore, leaving the US exposed to potential supply chain vulnerabilities and global military threats. Reversing that trend through onshoring is now viewed as essential to rebuild a resilient industrial base capable of sustaining long-term innovation and mission success.

“The most significant trend we’re seeing right now is the push to bring manufacturing microelectronics – also known as semiconductors – back to the U.S. from the Far East,” said Vern Boyle, vice president of Northrop Grumman’s Microelectronics Center. “After decades of outsourcing, there’s a growing recognition of the vulnerabilities that came with relying heavily on overseas production. This realization has ignited a movement to expand semiconductor fabrication within the United States. At Northrop Grumman, we’re proud to lead the charge by continuing to do what we’ve always done — manufacturing semiconductors right here at home.”

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