The collaboration will see BAE Systems adopt GlobalFoundries’ (GF) 12-nanometre FinFET semiconductor technology, manufactured at the company’s secure facility in Malta, New York. The chips will underpin a new generation of ruggedised, high-performance components tailored for space avionics, telecommunications and other mission-critical applications.
BAE Systems has launched a new RH12 Storefront, a turnkey design and development environment that enables rapid production of custom radiation-hardened integrated circuits. The platform draws on BAE’s own intellectual property and design expertise while relying on GF’s commercial-grade 12LP FinFET process renowned for its processing power, power efficiency and reliability.
The 12LP platform integrates features for radiofrequency systems, low-power memory and logic, allowing compact, customised chip designs capable of handling complex processing and connectivity requirements in orbit.
Ezra Hall, senior director for aerospace, defence and critical infrastructure at GlobalFoundries, said the partnership demonstrates how commercial semiconductor platforms can be adapted for high-stakes defence and space missions.
“Our work with BAE Systems is a tremendous example of the value GF can create using our feature-rich commercial semiconductor platforms to deliver highly differentiated chips for sensitive aerospace and defence systems,” Hall said. “These essential chips provide the performance and reliability of our commercial offerings with custom enhancements and security features enabled through our DMEA accreditation.”
Joe Dziezynski, director of space systems at BAE Systems, said the RH12 Storefront offers an efficient pathway for organisations needing space-qualified microelectronics.
“This approach uses commercial foundry technology for space missions, qualifying not only the library components but also the process for how each component is designed into customer-integrated circuits,” he said. “Customers now have a one-stop shop for state-of-the-art microelectronics to complete their missions in the harsh space environment.”
BAE Systems has long used radiation-hardening design techniques to ensure electronics remain resilient in orbit and GF already supplies the company with chips based on its 12S0 SOI technology. The shift to GF’s FinFET platform marks a move to more powerful, energy-efficient and reliable space-based computing.
GF’s Malta facility carries accreditation to securely manufacture sensitive chips for defence and aerospace customers, meeting strict US requirements for handling components destined for critical land, air, sea and space systems. The company also complies with ITAR and EAR export controls, supported by its dedicated GF Shield security framework.
GlobalFoundries remains one of the world’s leading producers of semiconductors, supplying essential components for automotive systems, smart devices, IOT technology and communications infrastructure across global high-growth markets.