U.S. Commission Recommends Manhattan Project-Style AI Initiative to Counter China’s Advances
The bipartisan U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC) has urged Congress to establish a “Manhattan Project-like” initiative for AI. This ambitious program would provide the executive branch with sweeping authority and funding to accelerate AI advancements in the U.S., echoing the urgency of the historic project that developed the first atomic bombs.
The USCC’s annual report, released Tuesday, underscored the need for sustained investments in AI, cloud computing, and data centers to secure an Artificial General Intelligence capability. “Congress should establish and fund a Manhattan Project-like program dedicated to racing and acquiring an AGI capability,” the report stated, emphasizing the importance of outpacing China in emerging technologies.
A High-Stakes Competition
China’s investments in cutting-edge technologies, including AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, and battery storage systems, are seen as a direct challenge to U.S. dominance. The report highlighted that, while the United States has acknowledged this technological competition, more aggressive action is needed to prevent China from gaining a military or economic upper hand.
“China’s rapid technological progress threatens U.S. economic and military stability and may erode deterrence in the Pacific, tipping the global balance of power,” the report warned. To mitigate these risks, the commission called on Congress to assign the highest national priority designation to critical AI projects under the Secretary of Defense.
Policy Moves to Curb Risks
The USCC’s recommendations come amid increasing tensions between the U.S. and China over technology and security issues. On Monday, the Treasury Department finalized rules limiting U.S. investments in Chinese technologies, reinforcing President Biden’s executive order last year aimed at restricting funds that could enhance China’s military or intelligence capabilities.
This year alone, the U.S. government has taken several measures to address perceived security threats, including sanctions on Chinese officials, restrictions on semiconductor imports, and even the closure of a Chinese-backed cryptocurrency mine near a Wyoming nuclear missile base.
The Path Forward
As China continues to push forward in AI and other strategic sectors, the U.S. is striving to solidify its technological leadership. The USCC’s report serves as a stark reminder of the stakes involved in this global race. It not only calls for significant funding and policy changes but also signals the importance of maintaining a proactive approach to innovation.
Established in 2000, the USCC is an independent body tasked with monitoring U.S.-China relations and providing actionable insights to Congress. Its latest recommendations highlight the critical role of AI in shaping the geopolitical landscape.
