US Sets Start Date for Fund to ‘Rip and Replace' Huawei and ZTE Network Equipment

The Federal Communications Commission on Sept. 27 announced the start date for a $1.9 billion program to repay U.S. telecom carriers to "Rip and replace" network equipment manufactured by Huawei, ZTE, and other China-based companies designated as national security threats.

The FCC adopted rules in December last year requiring carriers to replace all equipment made by Huawei and ZTE. The FCC designated Huawei and ZTE as national security threats on June 30 last year, barring U.S. firms from using an $8.3 billion government fund to buy equipment from either firm.

Rural carriers are facing high costs and difficulty in finding workers to replace the equipment, according to Reuters.

The size of the $1.9 billion pot was determined in September last year based on an estimate for the removal and replacement of the equipment.

"This list provides meaningful guidance that will ensure that as next-generation networks are built across the country, they do not repeat the mistakes of the past or use equipment or services that will pose a threat to U.S. national security or the security and safety of Americans."

In addition to taking steps to uproot Huawei and ZTE equipment at home, the United States has been warning allies about the presence of the equipment in their networks.

The FCC announcement comes days after a Canadian court dropped U.S. extradition proceedings against Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou, who is now back in China.

https://www.theepochtimes.com/us-sets-start-date-for-fund-to-rip-and-replace-huawei-and-zte-network-equipment_4019983.html