ASML Drives Next-Gen Chip Innovation

ASML Holding N.V., based in the Netherlands, is the world’s only producer of EUV lithography systems—a crucial component in making today’s most advanced microchips. 

With a dominant global market share and strategic collaborations with governments and research centers, ASML is central to reinforcing global digital infrastructure and stimulating AI in government technologies.

What Makes ASML Unique?

• EUV supreme: ASML’s Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) tools use 13.5 nm light to etch ultra-fine patterns—down to 5 nm chips or smaller. This enables denser, faster, and more energy-efficient processors used in AI, 5G, and more.

• High-NA revolution: The new EXE:5200B and NXE:3600D “High-NA” systems further shrink chip features (~8 nm), marking the next leap in precision and performance.

• Integrated innovation: ASML combines advanced hardware, optics (from ZEISS), and powerful software to control multi-layer chip fabrication processes .

Building Digital Infrastructure for Chipmaking

ASML plays a vital role in the digital infrastructure of semiconductor production. Its machines are central to chip fabrication plants worldwide, supporting fully digital, automated processes that underpin everything from smartphones to autonomous vehicles. In places like Albany, the installation of ASML’s TWINSCAN EXE:5200B at the U.S. National Semiconductor Technology Center reflects growing investment in homegrown chipmaking infrastructure.

Supporting AI and Government Tech

By enabling smaller, more powerful chips, ASML helps countries develop capabilities in AI in government. These chips power high-performance computing platforms and real-time data analysis systems used in areas like national security, digital public services, and infrastructure monitoring. ASML itself nurtures innovation through partnerships with startups and scaleups in their innovation ecosystem .

Global Influence and Strategic Importance

• Dutch HQ, global reach: Headquartered in Veldhoven, ASML serves major chipmakers like TSMC, Samsung, and Intel, operating in over 16 countries.

• Geopolitical leverage: As EUV tools become critical infrastructure, several governments, notably the U.S., restrict exports to maintain technological advantage and digital sovereignty .

Why It Matters

• Sustaining Moore’s Law: ASML’s EUV systems are essential to continuing advances in chip density and speed, supporting progress in computing technologies.

• Economic & security impact: Their lithography machines underpin entire tech ecosystems, making them strategic assets in national and global digital infrastructure.

• Innovation multiplier: ASML’s support of startups and research intensifies the global chip ecosystem and fosters next-gen tech innovation.