Elon Musk Warns: Without AI and Robotics, America Faces Inevitable Decline

Elon Musk warns! Without AI and robotics, the United States is guaranteed to face decline!

In a recent interview, Musk stated that within the next three years, space will become the most economically viable location for deploying AI, including data centers. He pointed out that energy growth on Earth faces multiple bottlenecks, whereas solar energy in space is significantly more efficient and not subject to the interruptions caused by day/night cycles, weather, or the atmosphere.

Musk predicted that in the future, the number of “simulated digital humans” (AI) will far exceed the human population. In this context, the priority is not merely to control AI, but to ensure that its values align with the goals of human civilization. By 2026, it may be possible to achieve a comprehensive digital simulation of human capabilities, which could revolutionize many industries.

Additionally, Musk issued a stern warning regarding the U.S. debt issue, asserting that without the advancement of AI and robotic technologies, the country will inevitably face bankruptcy.

Deploying Super Global Computing Power in Space

During a recent interview, Musk shared an ambitious vision. He believes that as electricity generation on Earth stagnates, space will emerge as the optimal site for AI deployment, with humanity potentially achieving this goal within three years. Musk plans to launch 100 gigawatts of computing power into orbit annually via SpaceX, aiming to surpass the total computing power available on Earth.

Musk highlighted the reality behind the energy supply for AI: globally, electricity production growth has nearly halted, except in China. Meanwhile, the demand for chip computing power is growing exponentially, and the terrestrial energy supply cannot keep up. By the end of this year, humanity may find itself with a surplus of chips that cannot be powered on.

“Expanding electricity generation on the ground is more challenging than in space. Solar panels in space are approximately five times more efficient than those on Earth and do not require batteries,” Musk explained. He noted that space does not experience day/night cycles, seasonal changes, or atmospheric interference, which alone can cause about 30% energy loss. The power generated by solar panels in space is estimated to be five times that of Earth.

Musk predicts that space will become the most cost-effective location for deploying AI. Within three years, it is expected to be the preferred site for AI deployment.

With high-frequency launch capabilities, Musk’s SpaceX could transform into a massive AI service provider. He mentioned that SpaceX is preparing for up to 10,000 launches annually, with the potential to increase to 20,000 or even 30,000. The AI launched into space by SpaceX will surpass all other AI on Earth combined.

“Digital Humans” as a Business Model

Musk firmly believes that artificial intelligence will become an indispensable force in human society. Within a few years, the total intelligence of AI is expected to exceed that of humanity. In the future, “silicon-based life” will dominate, making it difficult for humans to directly control AI that surpasses them.

“If silicon-based intelligence is a million times smarter than biological intelligence, trying to maintain control over it in any way is foolish. However, you can ensure it possesses the right values,” Musk stated. Consequently, the aim of xAI is to “understand the universe,” which necessitates that AI pursues truth and maintains curiosity.

The “simulated digital humans” will generate significant income for businesses by mimicking human roles in the digital economy. Musk believes that current tech giants are essentially “digital output” companies. Once evolution reaches the point of digital human employees, companies could unlock trillions of dollars in revenue potential.

He further emphasized that AI should not be trained to pursue “political correctness” but should adhere to factual integrity to avoid potentially deceptive behavior within the system. He also predicts that by 2026, comprehensive digital simulations of human capabilities may become a reality, fundamentally altering numerous industries.

Musk referred to the humanoid robot Optimus as an “infinite money printer.” He noted that the capabilities of digital intelligence, AI chip technology, and electromechanical dexterity are growing exponentially, and their combined potential will enhance robotic capabilities. He believes that robots could achieve low-cost self-manufacturing, leading to significant economic scale expansion.

Reflecting on his experiences with DOGE, Musk expressed his initial hopes of reversing the challenging fiscal trends in the U.S. and buying time for economic growth driven by AI and robotics. “This is the only way to address the national debt issue. Without AI and robotics, this country will 1000% face bankruptcy and decline,” Musk stated. “There are no other solutions to the national debt problem. We need ample time to deploy AI and robotics to avert bankruptcy beforehand.”