Russia Launches the World’s Only Production Facility for Photonic Integrated Circuits
A new photonics center in Zelenograd has begun producing photonic integrated circuits using three technologies at once, setting the foundation for 5G networks, autonomous transport, quantum systems, and next‑generation computing platforms
A Breakthrough in Photonic Manufacturing
Russia has opened the Moscow Photonics Center—the world’s only facility capable of manufacturing photonic integrated circuits (PICs) using three different technological approaches, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
PICs offer extremely high data‑transmission and data‑processing speeds, while remaining compact, energy‑efficient, and less expensive than foreign equivalents. The new platform is expected to boost data‑transfer speeds by up to a factor of 100.
These circuits will underpin Russia’s expansion of 5G technology, autonomous-transport systems, quantum-technology development, and construction of new data‑processing centers.
Strengthening Technological Sovereignty
The Moscow Photonics Center plans to produce up to 2,000 semiconductor wafers annually and approximately 500,000 photonic chips. The first six months will operate in test mode, after which the site will begin manufacturing optical modules designed to simplify network‑equipment connectivity to fiber‑optic lines.
In early 2026, the center will also open a microelectronics testing laboratory capable of replacing 70 percent of services previously provided by foreign research facilities. More than 70 high‑tech instruments will be installed to support testing of ultra‑clean chemical environments, electronic‑component reliability, and certification of materials and components.
A New Layer of Digital Infrastructure
By localizing advanced photonics manufacturing, Russia is laying the groundwork for long‑term technological independence in sectors that rely on high‑bandwidth, low‑latency data flows. Photonic chips are essential for next‑generation telecom equipment, high‑performance computing, industrial automation, and precision sensors.
The launch of the center not only reduces reliance on imports but also positions Russian photonics researchers and manufacturers to enter global markets that are increasingly constrained by supply‑chain limitations and geopolitical pressures.
