China's 'Manhattan Project': New Chip Machine Challenges US Dominance

• China built a prototype EUV chipmaking machine in Shenzhen, capable of producing advanced AI and smartphone chips.
• The prototype, reverse-engineered from ASML technology, suggests China is closer to semiconductor independence than anticipated.
• Former ASML engineers are reportedly involved, with some current employees approached by Huawei recruiters.
• Despite ASML's skepticism, China aims for working chips by 2028-2030, bypassing US sanctions.
• The project is a high-security national effort, likened to a 'Manhattan Project' for chip self-sufficiency.

Why It Matters: China's secret prototype chip machine signals a major leap towards AI self-sufficiency, challenging Western tech dominance.