Dynamics of general transition to digital technologies in recent years is the evidence of radical restructuring in the system of world leadership factors. In order to be at the forefront of digitalization, it is necessary to make a wager for creation of domestic solutions. The problems and prospects of the Russian microelectronic industry, as well as its role in transition to the digital economy — these issues were discussed in the interview to the “ES” magazine by Director General of the Research Institute of Microelectronic Equipment “Progress” (JSC “NIIMA Progress”) Vasiliy V. Shpak.