U.S. Military Bill Seeks to End Dependence on China for Display Technology by 2030

The final text of the U.S. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) released this week includes a significant measure aimed at reducing the Pentagon’s reliance on foreign countries—particularly China—for electronic display technology. This annual defense spending bill, which outlines funding and priorities for the U.S. military, could face a congressional vote within days after House and Senate negotiators produced the finalized version.

A key amendment in the bill would require the Department of Defense to identify its long-term needs for electronic displays, essential components found in devices ranging from smartphones and handheld military systems to advanced fighter jets. The Pentagon must map out these requirements through 2040 and develop a comprehensive strategy to eliminate dependence on China, Russia, and other geopolitical rivals for display supplies. Lawmakers expect the Pentagon to deliver a progress report on this initiative by March 2027.

If the legislation passes both chambers of Congress, it will then move to the desk of U.S. President Donald Trump for final approval. The push to secure domestic and allied production of display technology comes amid growing national security concerns. Experts warn that China’s rapid expansion in the global display market—driven by major manufacturers like BOE, which now supplies companies such as Apple—has weakened the competitive position of long-standing U.S. allies including Japan and South Korea. This shift raises questions about whether the U.S. military could reliably source critical display components in the event of geopolitical tensions or conflict.

The NDAA provision reflects increasing efforts to strengthen American supply chains and safeguard access to essential technologies. By targeting electronic displays, lawmakers aim to reduce vulnerabilities and ensure that U.S. defense capabilities are not compromised by foreign dependence.