Defense Department seeks input on restricting Chinese-made circuit boards in military gear

The Defense Department is asking for public comments on a new set of rules that would ban the use of certain printed circuit boards from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. This proposal implements laws passed by Congress in 2021 and 2022 to reduce supply chain risks. It does not ban all electronics, but specifically targets components where a failure or tampering could threaten national security.

Why it matters: This action shifts how the military buys electronic components by adding security checks to existing laws. For defense contractors, it means more paperwork and potentially higher costs if they need to source parts from outside China or Russia. It also creates a new hurdle for companies that rely on current supply chains involving those countries.

Who it affects

• Defense contractors who buy printed circuit boards

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This is an advance notice of proposed rulemaking from the Department of Defense published in the Federal Register; readers should check the original document for full details before relying on it.

Agency: Defense Department, Defense Acquisition Regulations System
Source: Federal Register — read the official document