It would be great if the USA invested half of its military budget in all these technologies instead of claiming that those Chinese investments are 'destroying' the USA economy. I have the impression that the USA is very capable, yet somehow chooses not to compete (on a technological investment level).

Because the US has moved onto a services economy. People don't want to build physical things. It's hard work, less pay, more pollution. They want to do consulting or software mostly.

And this has made the US more wealthy than ever with easier lives.

That works until it doesn't. Moderation in all things.