US Congress members warn: AI chip exports will decide future military and economic power
Washington (The Uttam Hindu): Members of the US Congress have warned that decisions related to the export of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) chips could shape future military strength and economic dominance. This has intensified debate in Parliament over whether such technology should be treated as ordinary commercial goods or placed under strict controls similar to strategic weapons.
During a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing last week, lawmakers from both parties stated that AI chips now play a critical role in warfare, intelligence operations, and global strategic competition. They argued that exports of advanced AI technology require the same level of congressional oversight as arms sales. Committee Chairman Congressman Brian Mast said that advanced AI systems have gone far beyond civilian use. He added that when exports affect America’s military advantage, Congress has a responsibility to intervene.
Mast explained that artificial intelligence already underpins military command and control systems, intelligence analysis, surveillance, cyber operations, and nuclear modernization. He said AI dominance could determine who sees first, who decides first, and who strikes first.
Former National Security Adviser Matt Pottinger cautioned that treating advanced chips as normal commercial products could be a major strategic mistake. He cited the telecommunications sector as an example, where Western companies once dominated, but Chinese firms surged ahead using imported technology. Pottinger warned that selling advanced AI chips would not promote fair competition but instead strengthen the military capabilities of rival nations.
Referring to China’s “military-civil fusion” policy, Pottinger said it is nearly impossible to separate civilian and military uses there. According to him, there is no clear boundary between civilian and military applications of advanced technology.
Former senior official Jon Finer said export controls on advanced chips and semiconductor manufacturing tools have been among the few effective measures to slow adversaries’ progress. However, he stressed that such controls require continuous enforcement. Finer noted that export controls are not a one-time solution and demand constant monitoring, regular adjustments, and strict implementation when necessary.
Economist Oren Cass stated that access to advanced computing power has become a key measure of national strength. He said that in the AI era, such technology is essential not only for economic growth but also for developing new military capabilities. Cass warned that diverting limited chip supplies to foreign buyers could weaken American industry itself.
Several lawmakers concluded that advanced AI chips should no longer be viewed as routine export items. They argued that such chips clearly alter military balance. As artificial intelligence becomes central to warfare, intelligence systems, and economic power, the US Congress is increasingly considering placing advanced AI chip exports under strict regulations similar to arms control frameworks.