Anduril and Qualcomm target 100% US-made laptops by 2027

Anduril and Qualcomm have announced a new laptop line called BlueChip that will launch in early 2027.

The initial model is a ruggedized device built for the US military. It runs on Arm-based Snapdragon X series chips and features a carrying handle similar to a rifle strap. The system will operate on Windows or two undisclosed versions of Linux.

The companies aim to produce laptops entirely in the United States. However, the first units will only be designed and assembled domestically. Anduril plans to handle assembly at its Arsenal-1 facility in Ohio. A promotional image provided by the company shows hardware stamped with the words Built in America.

During a virtual media session, Anduril founder Palmer Luckey and Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon discussed the rationale for the partnership. They cited keeping US money in the US, creating domestic jobs, and reducing national security vulnerabilities. They also noted the need to minimize technological and economic reliance on other countries.

The global supply chain for computers typically involves China, Taiwan, and many other nations. Anduril and Qualcomm did not share detailed plans for how they will build enough US manufacturing to achieve a fully domestic product. A promo image highlights the American origin, but the initial hardware will not meet that standard.

When asked about the percentage of components made in the US at launch, Luckey responded that the answer is TBD. He stated that those questions are not settled. He specified that the display glass, the frame around the display, and parts of the ribbon component will be American-made from the start. Luckey added that he thinks the first model shipped is not going to be 100 percent American. This places the first laptop well below the 65 percent requirement to count as American-made under federal procurement rules.

Qualcomm intends to manufacture the processors for this laptop at TSMC Arizona. When reporters asked about the investment amount, Qualcomm communications rep Yelena Tebcherani said the company does not have more details to share at the moment. Anduril confirmed that BlueChip is funded entirely by the two companies, not by government subsidies.

Anduril is starting with a military laptop to service users with the most stringent hardware needs and software security demands. This approach also targets valuable government contracts that may require large quantities of expensive computers. After the defense sector, the company plans to target first responders and public safety. Consumer-level laptops are last on the priority list. Luckey described the worst case as a low volume laptop for critical industries and government needs that desperately need something like this to exist.