In a recent interview, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang argued that it is improbable for China’s military to rely on American AI technology given the potential risks. Huang explained that, like the US military avoiding Chinese technology, China would similarly refrain from using American tech for its military projects. During the discussion, he noted that China’s military could not depend on foreign technology as it might be restricted without warning.

Huang emphasized that China’s military has no shortage of computational power, with many existing supercomputers powered by domestic engineering. He acknowledged that while China’s technology advancement is rapid, it would not necessarily bypass domestic solutions even if American technology becomes available. He further highlighted historical instances where China leveraged US tech, mentioning China’s Academy of Engineering Physics’ use of Intel and Nvidia systems for nuclear program support.

The backdrop of these comments is increasing geopolitical tension, with both Biden and Trump administrations imposing restrictions on semiconductor sales to China. Nvidia’s revenue is poised to experience significant impacts due to these policies, as they severely limit the chips available to the Chinese market.

Huang criticized the restrictions, asserting they inadvertently prompt China to develop its own AI hardware solutions, potentially leading to tech independence that’s undesirable for the US. Huang, along with other tech industry leaders, believes the US should encourage the use of American silicon globally to maintain its technological lead.