China's reverse-engineered Frankenstein EUV chipmaking tool hasn't produced a single chip — sanctions-busting experiment is still years away from becoming operational

A covert laboratory in China reportedly reverse-engineered an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography scanner, but the cobbled-together machine has not produced any chips and is years away from being operational. While there are rumors of stolen parts and components, replicating an entire EUV lithography tool is challenging due to the complex global supply chain and proprietary technology involved. Chinese chipmakers have attempted to upgrade existing tools with third-party components but may not meet the quality standards of the original manufacturer, ASML. Despite efforts to DIY advanced lithography tools, lacking access to proprietary software and firmware hinders full replication of ASML's technology.