Story perspectives

US and China Battle for Underwater AI Data Centers

10/24/2025

Summary

Story summary

The United States and China are intensifying their race to build underwater data centers for AI.
China is leading with projects like the Hainan underwater data center, using seawater cooling for sustainability.
The United States maintains cloud dominance while exporting restrictions limit Chinese access to advanced technologies.
Both nations explore Pacific seabeds, including the Cook Islands, raising environmental concerns and geopolitical tensions.

History

Historical Context

The global competition for technological supremacy intensified in 2021, echoing the Cold War's space race. The U.S. invested over $200 billion in cloud computing, while China launched the Hainan underwater data center, emphasizing sustainability. Both nations' exploration of Pacific seabeds raises environmental concerns and geopolitical tensions, highlighting the critical role of submarine cables in international security and data transmission.

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Story summary

The United States and China are intensifying their race to build underwater data centers for AI.
China is leading with projects like the Hainan underwater data center, using seawater cooling for sustainability.
The United States maintains cloud dominance while exporting restrictions limit Chinese access to advanced technologies.
Both nations explore Pacific seabeds, including the Cook Islands, raising environmental concerns and geopolitical tensions.

1 / 2