Microsoft has announced it will no longer utilise engineers based in China to maintain cloud computing systems for the U.S. Department of Defense. This decision follows concerns about potential cyber security risks and the safeguarding of sensitive government data. The previous arrangement involved China-based engineers providing technical assistance for DoD cloud services, overseen by U.S. personnel.
Microsoft has stated that it is committed to providing secure services to the U.S. government and is working with national security partners to evaluate and adjust security protocols. The change comes after scrutiny of the practice of using foreign engineers, even with U.S. supervision, for sensitive defence work. U.S. authorities have expressed concerns about potential vulnerabilities to cyberattacks and espionage, given China's cyber capabilities.
The move reflects heightened awareness of supply chain risks and the need to protect critical infrastructure and online networks from foreign threats. The Department of Defense is also conducting a review of its cloud services contracts to identify and address similar potential vulnerabilities.
