Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, particularly in the production of levofloxacin. Its stereochemistry enables high biological activity in the final drug product by enhancing target binding to bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. The compound’s fluorinated and nitro-substituted structure supports broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy. It is primarily utilized in pharmaceutical manufacturing under controlled conditions to ensure enantiomeric purity, which is critical for drug safety and effectiveness.