US Exploring Secure AI Base in Israel's Negev Desert
The US is examining plans to build a fortified artificial intelligence facility in Israel's Negev Desert to protect advanced technology from Chinese espionage and strengthen American dominance in AI development. The project, known as Project Spire, would combine military-grade security with the research capabilities of a major technology hub.
American and Israeli officials are discussing the joint initiative, according to Hudson Institute researchers Michael Doran and Zineb Riboua, who outlined the proposal in a Wall Street Journal op-ed. Israel would provide land through a long-term lease, while the facility would house research and development, server infrastructure, chip design, AI model training, and potentially advanced semiconductor production.
Strategic reasoning
The project reflects US strategy to create protected zones where trusted allies can work on sensitive AI without exposing technology to theft. Doran and Riboua argue that the next phase of US-China competition requires hardened AI bases governed by strict American standards.
The proposal connects to the Trump administration's Pax Silica initiative, an economic-security framework designed to strengthen trusted supply chains and reduce dependence on China. A January 2026 declaration signed by US Undersecretary of State Jacob Helberg and Erez Askal, head of Israel's National AI Directorate, provides potential foundation for the effort.
Why Israel qualifies
Israel stands out as a candidate because of its concentration of cyber, intelligence, military technology, chip architecture, and applied AI expertise. Major American technology companies-Nvidia, Intel, Google, and Microsoft-already operate there, placing Israel deep within the US-led technology ecosystem.
The Negev has existing infrastructure for advanced industrial cooperation. Intel has run manufacturing operations in Kiryat Gat for years. A new AI base would build on that foundation while addressing critical needs in computing power, energy capacity, software development, and chip capabilities.
Economic and security benefits
Technologies developed at the facility would remain under American ownership, though production and scaling could occur in the US. This structure would create high-value jobs in both countries while helping American firms maintain control over critical AI systems.
The project also addresses supply chain vulnerabilities. Taiwan dominates global semiconductor production but faces geopolitical pressure from China. Other allies-Britain, Japan, South Korea, and India-have significant strengths, but Israel offers operational speed, technological depth, battlefield-driven innovation, and established trust with Washington.
If approved, Project Spire could serve as a model for similar secure AI facilities in other allied countries. The approach would not retreat from global technological cooperation, but would move it into controlled environments where intellectual property, military applications, and sensitive infrastructure receive stronger protection.
Your membership also unlocks:
