US tightens control over Chinese defense companies
Washington has imposed controls and restrictions on dozens of key Chinese companies including state-owned developers of military technology such as air defense and satellites, citing national security.
 |
| A model of a Chinese military aircraft. |
The US Department of Commerce has added 44 Chinese companies to its export control list because they pose a “significant risk” to US security or foreign policy interests, the SCMP reported.
In a direct challenge to China's ambitions to become a technological superpower, the new US policy targets several key components of the “Made in China 2025” plan including air defense systems, satellite communications systems, semiconductors and space products.
Among the eight companies and dozens of affiliates affected by the US move are the China Second Academy of Aerospace Science and Industry, a research unit that is among China's largest missile developers, and the Hebei Far East Telecommunication System Engineering Company.
Other research facilities under the state-owned CETC Electronics Technology Group, which develops radar technology, semiconductors and microelectronics devices, were also affected.
The US list also includes China Volant Industry, a company specializing in the import and export of space technology, and the China High-Tech Industry Import and Export Corporation.
The US controls will restrict the companies' access to products that the US Commerce Department says have both civilian and military uses, including materials used in nuclear technology, telecommunications equipment, lasers and sensors.
