From Silicon to Sovereignty: How Advanced Chips are Redefining Global Dominance

Explore a 40-minute conference talk from the 38th Chaos Communication Congress (38C3) that delves into the intricate world of advanced semiconductor manufacturing and its geopolitical implications. Learn about the revolutionary Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography process and its crucial role in creating cutting-edge computing chips, from the initial refinement of ultrapure quartz to the production of nanometer-scale circuits. Understand how recent machine learning breakthroughs have intensified the demand for advanced computing power, transforming semiconductor technology into a strategic asset in global politics. Examine the complex international supply chain challenges and technical hurdles that define modern chip production, while gaining insights into how nations compete for technological sovereignty in the semiconductor industry. Suitable for audiences of all technical backgrounds, gain a comprehensive understanding of how scientific innovation in chip manufacturing intersects with international relations and shapes the future of global technological leadership.