Russia is preparing its own software for designing chips using the 28 nm process technology. The Ministry of Industry and Trade plans to launch the corresponding research and development work by the end of 2026, CNews reports, citing a presentation by the agency.

This refers to CAD – computer-aided design systems. Simply put, it is a set of programs in which engineers virtually "assemble" a future chip on a computer: they place its elements, check the circuit's operation, and prepare the project for production. The new complex has been named "CAD Tsifra-R".

28 nm is an important milestone for Russian microelectronics. This technology can be used to produce microprocessors, controllers, and systems-on-chip for industrial equipment, telecommunications, and other electronics. Currently, Russian serial production is limited to larger process technologies – up to 90 nm.

Domestic tools will also be needed for future factories. "NM-Tech" is building the "FAB-300" plant in Zelenograd, which is designed, among other things, to master 28 nm technology. Simultaneously, the creation of a consolidated microelectronic company is being discussed, which should consolidate major industry assets and establish the production of 28 nm and smaller chips. Up to 1 trillion rubles are planned to be allocated for the development of this direction until 2030.

A separate problem is the industry's software dependence. Russian design centers traditionally use solutions from foreign Synopsys and Cadence, which ceased supporting clients from Russia after 2022. 54.6 billion rubles are planned to be spent on the creation of domestic CAD systems until 2030.