TARPA – A Strategic Cross-Atlantic Technology Imperative

Talal Abu-Ghazaleh

The rise of prominent Asian tech companies, particularly in the semiconductor and battery sectors, has sparked a call to action; the establishment of a Transatlantic Advanced Research Project Agency (TARPA) between the US and Europe. Drawing inspiration from the renowned Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) of the United States, known for its role in shaping transformative technologies like the internet and GPS, this proposed initiative aims to pave the way for collaborative innovation.

The rationale behind TARPA is clear. By combining their resources and expertise, the US and Europe can expedite the progress of cutting edge technologies while alleviating the financial burden associated with research and development (R&D). This cooperation would then lead to specialized branches such as TARPA Chip (TARPA C) and TARPA Batteries (TARPA B), focusing on advancing next generation semiconductors and battery technology. 

As a global commentator on technology and trade, and having served as the Chair and a member of many UN and WTO panels for ICT and Trade, I see such an alliance as vital for the West. These areas have emerged as vulnerabilities in Western nations due to their heavy dependence on East Asia for these critical advancements, which play a pivotal role in various sectors, dominated by manufacturers based in East Asia. 

To address this issue, TARPA C could lead the way in precompetitive research and development, ensuring that Western companies stay competitive in the chip innovation race. Similarly, TARPA B's goal would be to disrupt the dominance of Asian countries in the battery market, which is vital for the growing electric vehicle sector and renewable energy storage solutions. These would provide viable options to Eastern dominance in these areas and help alleviate supply chain issues.

Introducing a joint public private technology investment fund could further support TARPA's efforts by using government support to attract private investments. This strategy would not only encourage innovation but would also spread out the financial risks associated with high stakes technology advancements, as well as bolster collective efforts to address matters such as global health challenges. 

Additionally, the geopolitical significance of TARPA should not be underestimated. In a time where technology is often weaponized in trade disputes and political conflicts, a united front across the Atlantic could serve as a stabilizing influence. It would demonstrate a commitment to shared values and mutual progress, strengthening ties between the US and Europe. 

As digital and physical realms continue to merge, initiatives like TARPA will not only shape technological landscapes but also redefine geopolitical dynamics in the 21st century. However, such an alliance would need to move fast and play catch up with their rapidly advancing Eastern counterparts who are moving forward in an unrelenting fashion, stopping to achieve world technology dominance.