Micron Technology has started manufacturing its 1α (1-alpha) DRAM node at its Manassas, Virginia fabrication facility, marking a significant milestone in efforts to expand memory production in the United States. The company said the node represents the most advanced memory technology ever manufactured in the country and strengthens domestic supply for critical industries.

Micron emphasized its role in bolstering America’s semiconductor supply chain. The new 1α DRAM node is optimized for long-lifecycle applications, supporting DDR4 and LP4 products used in sectors including automotive, defense and aerospace, industrial, networking, and medical devices.

US$2 Billion Investment

The milestone follows Micron’s more than US$2 billion investment to modernize and expand the Manassas facility, which supports more than 3,100 jobs. The project is backed by federal, state and local incentives.

Speaking at an event marking the launch on May 22, Micron Chairman, President and CEO Sanjay Mehrotra highlighted the initiative as part of the company’s broader US$200 billion plan to expand U.S. memory manufacturing and research and development. The company expects qualified 1α DRAM production from the Virginia site by the end of calendar year 2026, with the expansion set to quadruple DDR4 wafer supply from the facility.

Senior government officials joined Micron leadership at the event, including U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and other federal and state representatives, reflecting the strategic importance of semiconductor manufacturing to U.S. economic and national security priorities.

Supporting Critical Industries in the AI era

Micron said its memory and storage portfolio plays a foundational role across markets shaped by artificial intelligence, from data centers to industrial applications. The 1α technology will support long-lifecycle memory requirements while complementing leading-edge memory production being developed at other U.S. sites in Idaho and New York.

The company noted that growing demand driven by AI is reshaping its markets, increasing the importance of advanced memory as a strategic asset. The Manassas facility will specifically serve customers requiring stable, long-term product supply.

Domestic Semiconductor Ecosystem

Beyond manufacturing expansion, Micron is investing in workforce development and community programs. The company has committed more than $325 million to initiatives across Virginia, Idaho and New York, including education partnerships, apprenticeships and career training programs.

Micron said its broader U.S. expansion plans—including projects in New York and Idaho—are expected to create an estimated 90,000 jobs, reinforcing its long-term commitment to advancing domestic semiconductor manufacturing capacity.

25 May 2026