China’s Lurking Robotics Threat
America’s tech innovation requires all hands on deck, because there is no room for error. That is why bold congressional leaders are stepping up to not just compete with China, but to win. The American Security Robotics Act, introduced by Sen. Tom Cotton, alongside Rep. Elise Stefanik, would ban the government use of Chinese Communist Party–linked robotics. It’s common sense.
In the 21st century, technology is power. Our robotics systems have evolved beyond just basic industrial tools. In the span of less than a decade, they now operate as data-collecting, networked platforms capable of interfacing with sensitive systems, including our national security. When those machines are produced by companies tied to the Chinese Communist Party, the risks are immediate and significant. With advancements in AI, that threat is only going to grow.
To understand the robotics issue, it’s necessary to understand how Chinese companies must operate: under the hand of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Their tech firms, unlike American companies under a free market system, are required under their national security law to cooperate with Beijing’s intelligence services. Any robot operating in a U.S. government facility, regardless of its advertised purpose, has the potential to be used as spyware if made in China. Bluetooth systems can map physical environments, gather operational data, and transmit insights that foreign adversaries can exploit. Something must be done before that vulnerability becomes a national nightmare.
By establishing federal government bans, the American Security Robotics Act would prevent the purchase or operation of any tech classified as an unmanned ground vehicle system, such as humanoid robots and patrol systems.
“Our bill will ban the federal government from buying and operating these devices made in countries that wish us harm.”
— Sen. Tom Cotton
The American Security Coalition has consistently warned about the risks posed by foreign-controlled technology embedded in American government systems. By advocating for policies that support supply chain security and domestic innovation, our country can gradually remove CCP-linked robotics from all government use.
Sovereignty is what’s at stake. As a free market system, the United States remains committed to global trade. However, we can’t allow that openness to be exploited by foreign adversaries. China has already been investing in advanced robotics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence for years, chipping away at our country’s entrepreneurial system from within.
By establishing firm limits, this bill would encourage federal agencies to rely on trusted suppliers and also gives American-made firms the opportunity to expand under government contracts. President Trump has long emphasized the importance of bringing back American manufacturing, and this is yet another industry with expanded opportunity. A stronger industrial base is the key to both economic resilience and maintaining our national defense.
"One of America’s greatest strengths is the ingenuity of our people—our visionaries, inventors, engineers, and dedicated workers. We must continue to promote and propel America’s robotics superiority while safeguarding our privacy and national security from adversaries."
— Rep. Elise Stefanik
Washington has already addressed the risk of telecommunications networks, surveillance platforms, and software systems tied to Beijing. Robotics is the new frontier.
In an era defined by the speed of competition, complacency carries real consequences. The American Security Robotics Act fights against such carelessness.