Europe demonstrated how to develop its own server processor based on RISC‑V during the Intel 3 process.

Reducing Import Dependence in Europe: A New Experiment with RISC‑V

European engineers from the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC‑CNS) confirmed that their own server processors TC1 based on the open RISC‑V architecture are functioning correctly. The processors are fabricated using Intel 3 technology, allowing them to break free from Asian supply chains and proprietary platforms.

What Was Done
- Goal – to create a server chip completely independent of “major” manufacturers (Intel, AMD) and Taiwan’s TSMC.
- Implementation – developers swapped one dependency for another: instead of manufacturing the processors themselves, they ordered an experimental batch from Intel.

Technical Details
Parameter Value Technology
Process Intel 3 (not “cutting‑edge,” but suitable for small projects)
Die Size 15.2 mm²
CPU Core Area 3.2 mm²
Frequency up to 1.25 GHz (higher than advertised)
Interface Support PCI Express 5.0, DDR5
Composition Three‑part architecture: *Sargantana*, *Lagarto Ka* and *Lagarto Ox*
In May of last year, the first TC1 samples already allowed Linux to boot on the Intel Hawk Canyon V2 platform.

Why It Matters
- Import dependence – European developers need to reduce reliance on American and Asian suppliers.
- Economy – Ordering small batches from Intel can improve its financial position and demonstrate the viability of alternative technologies.
- Scale – BSC‑CNS does not plan mass production, but the experiment shows that the idea is feasible.

Conclusion
TC1 processors prove that an open RISC‑V architecture and accessible technology solutions enable European companies to develop their own critical infrastructure without tying themselves to large corporations. This could serve as a starting point for further attempts to bring their chips to market and strengthen independence from external supply chains.