Advancements in U.S. Military Technology
The Department of Defense has recently taken measures to ensure that America’s military will remain at the forefront of technology for the next five decades.
They’ve secured access to groundbreaking semiconductor technology that will serve as the cornerstone for future military systems. This encompasses a fighter jet that surpasses any current model, missile defense systems capable of tracking threats from much farther away, and enhanced electronic warfare strategies aimed at safeguarding our troops.
All of this technology is developed right here in the U.S., utilizing techniques that are, well, quite distinct.
This key technology is gallium nitride (GaN). If you’re unfamiliar with it, that’s understandable.
Historical Challenges
For many years, the backbone of the U.S. defense systems relied on silicon chips. Over half a century, these chips saw continuous enhancement, becoming faster and more efficient. Performance doubled predictably every two years, earning it the label of Moore’s Law.
However, that era has come to an end.
Silicon transistors have been miniaturized to a mere 5 nanometers—barely larger than a few atoms—making it practically impossible to shrink them further. The fundamental laws of physics simply won’t allow it.
Even Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, acknowledged the situation, saying, “Moore’s Law is dead. It can’t deliver twice the performance for the same cost anymore. It’s finished.”
Consequently, defense contractors are in urgent need of advanced chips to support the next wave of military innovations.
Transformative Technology
Gallium nitride chips not only use 40% less energy but also provide performance enhancements up to 100 times better than traditional silicon. The Department of Defense’s latest radar system has integrated GaN to extend its detection range significantly. The Patriot missile defense system has likewise seen upgrades utilizing GaN components, and the F/A-18 Super Hornet’s fire control radar has incorporated GaN for feats unattainable with silicon.
This technology has already started being deployed in American military systems, and interest is growing rapidly.
Investment in Domestic Resources
President Trump has recognized the urgency of the situation. In July, he revealed plans for the government to invest in several mining companies to level the playing field against China’s state-owned enterprises.
Earlier this month, a strategic initiative was launched to establish a stockpile of essential minerals, with an initial investment of $12 billion aimed at reducing reliance on foreign sources.
As President Trump noted, “We’re not limiting our focus just to certain minerals or rare earths. We’re encompassing everything.”
Gallium, a crucial mineral sourced from American soil, is now a priority for this administration to ensure that U.S. manufacturers have unimpeded access to it.
This is more than just a government initiative; it exemplifies that GaN technology is vital for national security interests.
Domestic Production Initiatives
By late 2025, a leading supplier of chips for the Department of Defense, a Trusted Foundry company for more than two decades, announced a major collaboration aimed at producing advanced GaN technology domestically.
Production is set to commence in 2026 at a Department of Defense-certified facility, specifically targeting critical applications for national security.
This step will enable U.S. defense contractors to procure cutting-edge GaN semiconductors without dependence on external sources.
Small Business Innovation
This partnership is with a small American semiconductor firm that possesses around 250 patents related to GaN technology.
The company’s current stock price is below $10 per share and has successfully delivered over 250 million GaN chips. Significant tech firms are already capitalizing on this innovation.
Now, this access has also been secured for military applications by the Department of Defense.
As new defense systems are developed, the necessity of this technology has become clear. Performance criteria simply can’t be met with silicon.
GaN is the only viable path forward.
Capitalizing on American Ingenuity
This situation illustrates the convergence of American innovation and manufacturing capabilities—an emerging company with transformative technology, backing from the Pentagon, and the security of domestic production.
Additionally, defense spending is on the rise. The technology’s reliability is established, and the partnership solidified. This small firm is now pivotal to the future of America’s semiconductor landscape.
With patents secured and the technological know-how available, we are well-positioned to support our nation’s most critical military needs.
This opportunity transcends mere investment; it’s about gaining from America’s technological strengths while backing the enterprises that protect our country.
