Intel Foundry Secures Fortinet as First Named Chip Manufacturing Customer

Intel announced Tuesday that cybersecurity firm Fortinet will use its foundry services to manufacture its next-generation security chips. This marks Fortinet as the first officially named corporate client for Intel's chip manufacturing division under CEO Lip-Bu Tan, who assumed leadership in March 2025. The SP6 security chip will be produced using the Intel 4 process.

The agreement is a significant development for Intel's foundry business, which aims to compete in the broader semiconductor manufacturing market. Intel has been seeking a major customer, particularly for its most advanced nodes like 14A and 18A, to validate its substantial investments in new fabrication facilities. The Intel 4 process used for Fortinet's chips is an established technology suitable for specialized chips like ASICs used in networking.

While Fortinet may not possess the same consumer recognition as companies like Apple or Microsoft, it operates in a critical and growing sector driven by increased demand for advanced cybersecurity, especially with the rise of AI. This partnership could bolster confidence in Intel's foundry capabilities among designers and investors.

Intel has previously entered into agreements for lower-volume chip production with companies such as Microsoft and Amazon. The U.S. Department of Defense is also a user of Intel's foundry services. The company is scheduled to report its second-quarter financial results after market close on Thursday.