LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 23, 2002--International Rectifier Corporation (NYSE:IRF - news), a world leader in power management technology, announced the development of new power semiconductor devices targeting the next generation of flight aircraft, including the joint Strike Fighter designated as the F35. Designed for harsh environments that require high density, high efficiency and high reliability, the new technology reduces device size by 30% and increases power efficiency up to 20%, when compared to current offerings.

High-reliability, high-performance semiconductors are essential components of key electronic systems in aircrafts like the F35, which is designed to serve all U.S. military branches for the next 40 years and is scheduled to be produced in a quantity of at least 3000 over the life of the program.

``These new products demonstrate International Rectifier's position as the technology leader in power management for high-reliability, high-performance systems in the defense and aerospace market,'' says Alex Lidow, International Rectifier's chief executive officer. ``IR has about $200,000 worth of content on the F35 prototype, and our latest devices were developed to meet the even tougher power requirements of the production F35 and a host of next-generation military and aerospace applications.''

Rob Paton, aerospace designer for Toronto-based Honeywell- Engines, Systems & Services Division, notes, ``The power management demands of the aircraft exceed any other technology in place today, requiring next-generation know-how in thousands of applications throughout the aircraft.''

John Catrambone, vice president of International Rectifier's High Reliability Products Group, adds, ``These new power devices are designed to address a broad spectrum of power electronic applications within the F35. Power management applications are critical to everything from displays, communication systems and ejection systems to power generation and distribution, including starter/generators, converters, and actuators. Virtually all power electronic and Motor Control applications in the F35, from cockpit to tail, serve as prime applications for our proprietary devices.''

Advanced power semiconductors also serve as enabling technology for electronic systems in missiles, ships, tanks, satellites, and a wide range of ground support applications.

Honeywell, Lockheed, Lucas Aerospace, Parker Hannifin, Northrop Grumman, Hamilton Sundstrand, and Fokker Elmo are among the leading defense subcontractors who use International Rectifier power semiconductor technology.

International Rectifier is a world leader in power management technology that improves functionality, speed, compactness, and portability in information technology and other end products. The company's analog ICs, advanced-circuit devices, power systems, and components enable Internet hardware to gain speed and reliability, allow portable electronics to run longer off a single charge, improve automotive fuel efficiency, and cut energy consumption in home appliances and industrial motors. The company is the pioneer and market leader in the $4 billion power MOSFET industry, and over 20 companies are licensed under its power MOSFET patents. The company serves market leaders around the world, and more than half its revenue comes from outside the United States.

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