Micron Launches 1α DRAM Production in Virginia with $2 billion Expansion
Micron has started U.S. manufacturing of its 1α DRAM node at Manassas, Virginia, backed by over $2 billion in fab expansion and more than 3,100 new jobs. The node will quadruple DDR4 wafer output and is part of Micron’s $200 billion U.S. investment plan.
1. 1α DRAM Manufacturing Launch
Micron has begun 1α DRAM production at its Manassas, Virginia fab following a more than $2 billion expansion, marking the first domestic manufacturing of the world’s most advanced DDR4 memory technology. The node is tailored to long-lifecycle applications in automotive, defense, aerospace, industrial and networking sectors.
2. Capacity and Supply Impact
The new 1α node will quadruple DDR4 wafer supply at the Manassas facility, securing a stable domestic source of DDR4 and LP4 memory. This ramp supports critical U.S. customers and aligns with Micron’s strategy to strengthen America’s memory supply chain.
3. U.S. Investment and Job Creation
This expansion forms part of Micron’s $200 billion U.S. investment plan, which includes projects in Idaho and New York expected to create an estimated 90,000 jobs. The Manassas fab expansion alone supports over 3,100 direct manufacturing and community positions.
4. Production Timeline and Next Steps
Micron expects qualified 1α DRAM production by year-end 2026, while ground preparation advances at upcoming Idaho and New York fabs. These facilities will house leading-edge memory R&D and manufacturing to meet growing demand in the AI and data center markets.