OpenAI plans to expand its $500B Stargate AI infrastructure project beyond the U.S., targeting ~10 global sites with U.S. allies like the UK, France, and Germany. VP Chris Lehane says it's about promoting “democratic AI” & giving partners potential access to advanced U.S. chips. pic.twitter.com/yUawVZNGVn
— Wall St Engine (@wallstengine) May 7, 2025
OpenAI is taking its $500 billion Stargate AI infrastructure project beyond U.S. borders, setting its sights on roughly 10 global sites in allied nations. The initiative, backed by SoftBank, Oracle, and Microsoft, aims to establish AI data centers in the UK, France, Germany, and other strategic locations.
VP Chris Lehane framed the expansion as a move to promote “democratic AI”, contrasting OpenAI’s approach with authoritarian models emerging elsewhere. The project will provide partner nations with access to cutting-edge U.S. semiconductor chips, reinforcing their AI capabilities while strengthening technological alliances.
The Stargate project was originally launched to boost AI infrastructure within the United States, but OpenAI’s leadership now sees international expansion as essential. The company is working closely with governments and private sector partners to secure land, power, and regulatory approvals for the new sites.
SoftBank, a major financial backer, is expected to contribute tens of billions of dollars through a mix of debt and equity. OpenAI, meanwhile, will oversee operational aspects, ensuring that the new AI hubs align with its broader vision for global AI development.
The expansion comes at a time when AI competition is heating up, with China aggressively advancing its own AI infrastructure. OpenAI’s move signals a strategic effort to cement Western leadership in AI, ensuring that allied nations remain at the forefront of technological innovation.
The first phase of international deployment is expected to begin by late 2025, with additional sites rolling out over the next several years. As OpenAI scales its operations, the geopolitical implications of AI dominance will become even more pronounced.
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