Search Results for keywords:"national security"

The U.S. Department of Energy has issued a Prohibition Order that restricts the acquisition and use of certain bulk-power system (BPS) electric equipment from China because of national security concerns. This order aims to prevent foreign adversaries from potentially exploiting these equipment vulnerabilities, especially in areas critical to defense facilities. It specifically targets equipment like transformers and circuit breakers operating at 69 kV or higher if they are manufactured or supplied by entities under China's influence. Violation of this order may result in significant civil or criminal penalties.

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) issued a final rule to address national security risks related to connected vehicles, particularly those involving technology designed, developed, manufactured, or supplied by entities in China or Russia. The rule aims to regulate certain software and hardware that enable vehicle connectivity and automated driving systems. It requires vehicle manufacturers and importers to verify their supply chains and submit Declarations of Conformity to confirm compliance, with some options for specific or general authorizations to continue certain transactions otherwise prohibited. The rule is designed to protect U.S. infrastructure from potential threats associated with these technologies.

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) under the Department of Commerce is amending the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) with new rules to enhance national security by regulating the export of advanced computing integrated circuits (ICs). The Interim Final Rule (IFR) introduces new due diligence measures to help foundries and semiconductor companies comply with U.S. export laws, especially concerning ICs sold to countries like China. It updates existing semiconductor export controls and sets reporting requirements, license exceptions, and a framework for realizing transparency between IC designers and manufacturers. Public comments on the rule are invited until March 14, 2025.

In a new interim final rule, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced changes to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) regarding advanced computing and semiconductor manufacturing items. These changes include new controls on semiconductor equipment, high bandwidth memory, and software keys. The rule aims to limit specific exports to countries of concern, such as China, due to national security risks. The refinements include foreign direct product rules, license requirements, and clarifications to assist compliance.

The U.S. Department of Defense has announced its intention to sell military equipment to Chile. This sale includes up to 16 Standard Missile-2 Block IIIA missiles and other support equipment, valued at approximately $85 million. The sale aims to improve Chile's defense capabilities and aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security goals by strengthening ties with a strategic partner in South America. Raytheon Missiles and Defense, based in Tucson, Arizona, will be the primary contractor, and no U.S. defense readiness will be impacted by this sale.

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is inviting applications for vessels to join the Cable Security Fleet (CSF). This program aims to keep a ready fleet of U.S.-owned cable vessels for national security and global positioning in the submarine cable market. To apply, potential participants must meet specific citizenship and technical requirements and submit applications by February 4, 2021. Once selected, participants will form agreements with MARAD to operate these vessels in the commercial cable industry and make them available to the U.S. Government during emergencies.

The Department of Defense has announced a notification regarding an arms sale to Saudi Arabia. The sale includes 3,000 GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb I munitions and other related support equipment, services, and parts, with an estimated program cost of $290 million. This sale aims to support U.S. foreign policy and national security by bolstering Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities and maintaining regional stability. The principal contractor for this deal will be Boeing, and the sale is not expected to negatively impact U.S. defense readiness.

The Executive Order 14237 aims to address activities by the law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP (Paul Weiss) that the administration deems harmful to national interests. It directs immediate suspension of security clearances for Paul Weiss employees and an evaluation of existing government contracts with the firm. The order also outlines measures to prevent future business with the firm unless it aligns with American interests and instructs agencies to limit interactions with Paul Weiss employees when national security is a concern. Additionally, it emphasizes the administration's commitment to eliminating racial discrimination in federal contracting practices.

In a memorandum dated January 13, 2021, the President of the United States delegated authority to the Secretary of State. This delegation allows the Secretary to decide if it's crucial for national security to sell up to $6.8 million worth of cluster munitions technology to South Korea. The decision can be made without considering other legal restrictions related to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. The memorandum also instructed that this authority be published in the Federal Register.

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has announced a proposed sale of up to 386 Hellfire Air-to-Ground Missiles and related support services to the Government of the Netherlands. This sale aims to enhance the Netherlands' defense capabilities, supporting U.S. foreign policy and national security goals by strengthening a NATO ally. Lockheed Martin in Orlando, FL, will be the main contractor, and the sale will not affect the U.S.'s own defense readiness. The sale is valued at approximately $150 million and includes technical assistance and program support.