China’s rapid advancements—evident in breakthroughs like DeepSeek—are challenging US superiority like never before
For decades, the United States has been the undisputed global leader in cutting-edge technology, from artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing to defence innovations and space exploration. However, China’s rapid advancements in these fields, fueled by a mix of state-driven initiatives, talent acquisition, and aggressive R&D investments, are now posing a serious challenge to the US supremacy. The emergence of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model rivaling OpenAI’s GPT-4, is just one example of how Beijing is closing the technological gap. China’s ambitions extend far beyond AI. It has made remarkable strides in many areas. It is a direct result of China’s ‘vision 2025’ which is translating into reality. China has developed the Jiuzhang quantum computer, which demonstrated computational speeds exponentially faster than classical supercomputers. Meanwhile, the US remains engaged in its own quantum pursuit through companies like Google and IBM, but China’s government-backed approach provides an edge in long-term planning. From hypersonic missiles that can evade US missile defence systems to AI-driven warfare capabilities, China’s military modernisation is shifting global power dynamics.
Despite US sanctions aimed at crippling China’s semiconductor industry, Beijing has made breakthroughs, notably with Huawei’s 7nm Kirin chip, defying expectations. The US remains dependent on Taiwan’s TSMC, but China’s relentless pursuit of self-reliance is narrowing this gap. Even in space tech, China is surging ahread. China’s Tiangong space station, its Mars and lunar exploration programs, and its ambitions in satellite-based internet rival those of NASA and SpaceX. This places China on an equal footing with the US in space dominance. However, Washington is not sitting idle in the face of this challenge. The US has adopted a multi-pronged strategy. It has stepped up its effort to contain China. The Biden administration had imposed restrictions on Chinese firms like Huawei and AI chip exports to limit their technological growth. The US is deepening ties with the European Union, Japan, and India to counterbalance China’s rise in emerging tech. Initiatives like the CHIPS Act and QUAD alliances are designed to limit Beijing’s access to critical tech. Besides, companies like OpenAI, Google, and IBM are receiving government backing to maintain an edge over Chinese AI firms. In this tech war India, though lagging, is trying to cope albeit at a slow pace. While it has growing ties with the US, it also maintains strategic independence. India too is investing heavily in AI startups and quantum computing research. With the government’s Semicon India initiative, India aims to become a global semiconductor hub, attracting investments from Intel, TSMC, and others. Indeed, India is emerging as a significant player in the global tech landscape. As this race unfolds, the global order in technology will be reshaped in ways that will define the 21st century.
