IBM Boosts Microelectronics Security, Earns Additional DMEA Trusted Supplier Accreditation
Microelectronics Pivotal To Major Defense Technology
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July 27, 2023
IBM announced on July 26 it has earned a secondary Trusted Supplier accreditation from the Department of Defense's (DoD) Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA) for the provision of customized embedded security services to an advanced U.S.-based microelectronics manufacturer.
This builds on IBM Consulting's earlier security services accolades, which included the esteemed James S. Cogswell Outstanding Industrial Security Achievement Award in 2022 for exceptional performance in security program delivery.
Microelectronics are pivotal components in a majority of defense technology platforms, from mobile devices and computers to cutting-edge weaponry systems. The security of the microelectronics supply chain, thus, directly impacts national security and economic prosperity.
However, due to its global reach and manufacturing processes, securing this
critical supply chain poses substantial challenges. IBM Consulting's award-winning accredited security services are designed to address these complexities, enabling the identification and rectification of microelectronics supply chain vulnerabilities.
"Our national security, economy and even our way of life are at risk without adequate security and trust in microelectronics manufacturing," said Susan Wedge, Managing Partner, U.S. Public and Federal Market at IBM Consulting.
"It's critical that microelectronics and related parts are manufactured in properly secured environments and available when and where they're most needed. This additional accreditation is a demonstration of IBM Consulting's commitment to continuous innovation in the delivery of security services that help safeguard the ongoing domestic supply of defense-critical microelectronics," Wedge continued.
"DMEA's Trusted Supplier accreditation remains a benchmark in semiconductor development assurance," said Dr. Nicholas T. Martin, Director of the Defense Microelectronics Activity. "This accreditation expands DoD access by adding an advanced ASIC technology node for defense and aerospace applications.
IBM has been a key partner in enabling advanced, secured, and trusted access in commercial foundries. In a time when global supply chains have become increasingly fragile and the U.S. is facing diminished microelectronics supply, this achievement strengthens the domestic microelectronics industrial base and our nation's efforts to fortify its semiconductor supply chain for key DoD and national security programs."
The DMEA's Trusted Access Program Office (TAPO) has overseen the Trusted Foundry Program since 2003. The office's key responsibility is to ensure cost-effective security and integrity in the manufacturing and distribution of microelectronics for the U.S. government.
IBM's additional accreditation underscores its pivotal role in maintaining and improving the robustness of the nation's defense-critical supply chains.I