Microsoft implemented changes to its protocols following a Pro Publica report detailing the use of China-based engineers for maintaining U.S. Department of Defense cloud computing systems. The previous arrangement involved “digital escorts” supervising these engineers, a system Pro Publica noted was problematic because these U.S. citizens, despite holding security clearances, occasionally lacked the requisite technical knowledge for effective oversight.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth commented on the matter, stating, “Foreign engineers — from any country, including of course China — should NEVER be allowed to maintain or access DoD systems.”
Spot on Senator. Agree fully. Our team is already looking into this ASAP.
Foreign engineers — from any country, including of course China — should NEVER be allowed to maintain or access DoD systems. https://t.co/gQ9dirjxND
— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) July 18, 2025
In response to the concerns, Microsoft’s Chief Communications Officer Frank X. Shaw confirmed the company’s adjustments. Shaw stated, “In response to concerns raised earlier this week about US-supervised foreign engineers, Microsoft has made changes to our support for US Government customers to assure that no China-based engineering teams are providing technical assistance for DoD Government cloud and related services.”
In response to concerns raised earlier this week about US-supervised foreign engineers, Microsoft has made changes to our support for US Government customers to assure that no China-based engineering teams are providing technical assistance for DoD Government cloud and related…
— Frank X. Shaw (@fxshaw) July 18, 2025
