[rmjb]

This is a standard practice with all electronics manufacturers. I've been seeing it for decades at the end of component datasheets from Fairchild, National Semiconductors etc, even for things as trivial as discrete transistors, 555s and 741s. I think its primarily due to the possibility of contributory liability. And it also allows them to price discriminate and sell defense grade components at ~ 4-10x the price.