China’s recent advancements in critical technology research investments have experts warning of potential reshaping of global cybersecurity and warfare. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute reported that China has surpassed the United States in key technology areas, including artificial intelligence, defense, energy, biotechnology, robotics, and cyber. China now leads in 57 out of 64 tracked technologies, with the U.S. remaining dominant in select areas such as quantum computing and vaccines.
Experts like Roger Grimes from KnowBe4 acknowledge China’s growing technological contributions but emphasize that the U.S. still leads in product and service development. However, China’s advancements in high-risk technologies, particularly defense-related applications like radar, aircraft engines, and drones, pose significant concerns for democratic nations globally.
India is also emerging as a key player in technology innovation, ranking among the top five countries in 45 technologies tracked by ASPI. The report warns of potential global bottlenecks due to China’s increasing control over essential patents, limiting access to critical technologies.
To address these challenges, experts recommend increased research funding for agencies like DARPA and the NSF, as well as expanding programs like SBIR grants to support startups in developing solutions for federal use. Earlier this year, DARPA awarded grants to seven small businesses to develop AI-based systems for cybersecurity.
Overall, the rise of China in technology research investments has implications for global cybersecurity and warfare, requiring proactive measures to ensure continued technological innovation and security.
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