GlobalFoundries files patent infringement lawsuits against Tower Semiconductor

GlobalFoundries (GFS) has filed multiple lawsuits in the U.S. against Tower Semiconductor (TSEM) alleging that it has infringed GF patents by freeriding on decades of GF innovation with an intent to unlawfully take business away from the American chipmaker. The lawsuits were filed today in the U.S. International Trade Commission and the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas. The complaints allege that Tower, a competing semiconductor manufacturer, unlawfully uses GF’s patented manufacturing process technologies, engaging in unlicensed exploitation of GF’s R&D investments rather than undertaking the costly, long-term research required to develop these capabilities independently. The actions assert infringement of 11 GF U.S. patents protecting high-performance technologies critical to smart mobile, automotive, aerospace and communications infrastructure, and seek injunctive relief to block Tower’s importation and sale of infringing products in the U.S. as well as to compensate GF for any lost profits.