US FCC Bans Foreign Robots Over 2kg, Citing National Security

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has expanded its "Covered List" to include mobile, communicating robots weighing over 2 kilograms and power inverters used in solar panels, effective July 28. This move, driven by the Department of Defense, aims to limit U.S. exposure to potentially sensitive foreign technology, particularly from China, which is perceived as a national security threat. The FCC defines "advanced robotic devices" as mobile systems with on-board sensing, communication, and some autonomy, excluding drones, connected vehicles, and medical devices. The government justifies the ban by citing cybersecurity risks to critical infrastructure and the need for a secure domestic supply chain and industrial base. While the FCC states the action is "country neutral," U.S. national security sources indicate China is the primary target. China's Ministry of Commerce has condemned the ban, calling it discriminatory and protectionist, and vowing to defend its companies' rights. To gain FCC authorization, foreign companies must submit a plan to establish or expand manufacturing in the United States, with applications due by January 1, 2028. Reactions from the robotics industry are mixed; some U.S. companies anticipate benefiting from reduced competition, while others, like Boston Dynamics, see it as a foundational policy for future industry growth. However, international buyers might continue to favor Chinese products, and companies like ANYbotics and Persona emphasize customer needs for reliability and support over hardware cost alone. ANYbotics plans to apply for conditional approval, which involves a national security review and a plan for U.S. manufacturing. Experts suggest that while the ban aims to enhance cybersecurity and create a level playing field, ad hoc and fragmented approaches to technology security risks may hinder innovation and partnerships within the U.S. robotics ecosystem.