The "emerging and foundational technologies"
covered by the move include gallium oxide and diamond, because "devices
that utilize these materials have significantly increased military
potential," the US Commerce Department said.
"Technological advancements that allow technologies
like semiconductors and engines to operate faster, more efficiently, longer,
and in more severe conditions can be game changers in both the commercial and
military context," said Commerce Under Secretary for Industry and Security
Alan Estevez.
"When we recognize the risks as well as the benefits,
and act in concert with our international partners, we can ensure that our
shared security objectives are met."
The four technologies are among items that 42 participating
countries reached consensus to control at December 2021 meetings. The US export
controls cover a wider range of technologies, including additional equipment,
software, and technology used to produce semiconductors than the international
agreement.
Gallium oxide and diamond allow semiconductors "to work
under more severe conditions, such as at higher voltages or higher
temperatures. Devices that utilise these materials have significantly increased
military potential," Commerce said.
The controls include ECAD, a category of software tools used
for validating integrated circuits or printed circuit boards "that can
advance many commercial as well as military applications including defense and
communications satellites," the department said.
In June 2021, the US-China Economic and Security Review
Commission found the department was not doing enough to keep sensitive
technology out of the hands of China's military. The lag in developing the list
of emerging and foundational technologies, as required by a 2018 law, may
exacerbate national security risks, the report said. © Reuters
0 comments:
Post a Comment