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ARTICLE · 29 SEPTEMBER 2026

FCC Conditional Approvals For Advanced Robots Show A Path Forward For Manufacturers With US Onshoring Plans

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The Federal Communications Commission has opened a pathway for foreign robotics manufacturers to enter the U.S. market despite Covered List restrictions through conditional approval exemptions. Recent approvals for Swedish and Indian manufacturers demonstrate how companies can navigate national security concerns with detailed ownership disclosures and U.S. onshoring commitments. These precedent-setting decisions offer hope for robotics companies currently blocked from obtaining FCC equipment authorizations.

United StatesGovernment, Public Sector
Andrew Golodny
Andrew Golodny

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently announced conditional approval exemptions from the Covered List for companies manufacturing advanced robotic devices. This demonstrates a path forward for manufacturers whose devices may currently be blocked from entering the United States. For companies that are prepared to engage with the conditional approval process, these decisions are encouraging.

In July 2026, the FCC expanded its "Covered List" to include foreign-produced advanced robotic devices, generally preventing new models of robots from obtaining new FCC equipment authorizations needed for US market access. However, manufacturers may seek an exemption through a "conditional approval" process in which the government will evaluate whether the device poses a national security risk. Applicants must provide detailed information about their ownership, supply chains, and manufacturing operations, along with a US onshoring plan. If approved, the equipment is exempted from

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