Intel doubles down on ASML's high-na euv for advanced 14a chip production
Veldhoven, Thursday, 25 September 2025.
Intel is increasing its investment in ASML’s High-NA EUV lithography equipment. The order increase signals Intel’s commitment to leading-edge chip manufacturing, specifically for its 14A process. This positions Intel to compete with industry giants such as TSMC and Samsung. Each unit costs approximately $370 million, and Intel could spend up to $2 billion on lithography. The 14A node is crucial for Intel. The company has suggested it will abandon the high-end node race if the 14A node does not achieve significant customer adoption.
ASML’s market position strengthened
The increased orders from Intel validate the demand for ASML’s High-NA EUV systems [1]. This solidifies ASML’s position as the sole provider of these advanced lithography machines [3]. ASML’s technology is crucial for manufacturing cutting-edge semiconductors [3]. The company’s ability to roll out this new technology ensures the chip industry remains reliant on its equipment [3]. The first parts of the new machines have already been shipped to Intel’s D1X factory in Oregon [3].
Impact on ASML’s order book
Intel’s increased acquisition of ASML’s High-NA EUV equipment directly impacts ASML’s order book [1]. ASML is expected to deliver 56 Low-NA EUV scanners in 2027 [2]. This includes five units for Intel, seven for Samsung, and twenty for SK Hynix [2]. Furthermore, ASML plans to deliver ten High-NA EUV scanners, with Intel and SK Hynix each expected to receive two [2]. This demonstrates strong demand for both Low-NA and High-NA EUV tools [2].
Technological leadership and pricing
ASML’s High-NA EUV equipment is considered the ‘holy grail’ of the chip market because of its lithography quality [1]. Each High-NA EUV scanner costs approximately $380 million [2]. The first model, Twinscan EXE:5200, is priced around €250 million ($275 million) [3]. The second generation, EXE:5200B, will cost over €350 million and offer higher productivity [3]. ASML’s current top-end machines are priced at about $180 million [3].