Defense Science Board (DSB) Ensuring Microelectronics Superiority - Executive Summary

During its study period, the Task Force surveyed the current global microelectronics supply chain, the Department's current and projected future microelectronics requirements, and potential policy options for the Department to mitigate threats and ensure access to trusted and assured microelectronics. During the Task Forces deliberations, the coronavirus pandemic served to underscore the fragility of certain critical supply chains, for the nation as a whole as well as for the Department. Indeed, commercial sectors such as the automotive industry are still enduring the effects of the semiconductor supply shock. Additionally, national-level attention from both the executive and legislative branches in the form of executive orders and legislation are demonstrating the growing consensus that the United States must take action to ensure microelectronics superiority vis-vis it's competitors. The findings and recommendations contained in this report, if adopted by the Department, will ensure it moves decisively to support a more resilient and secure microelectronics supply chain, and that the Department is postured to support future whole-of-government efforts in this critical issue of national security.