Boston Dynamics CEO warns against Chinese robots in US, citing active data leaks

Boston Dynamics’ interim CEO Amanda McMaster is sounding the alarm on Chinese-made robots operating in the US, claiming that data leaks are already happening. Her push for a comprehensive national robotics strategy comes at a time when China accounts for a staggering 54% of global robot deployments.

McMaster, who also serves as the company’s CFO, has been making the case to Congress that foreign-made robotics, particularly those from Chinese firms, pose genuine national security and cybersecurity risks. This isn’t a hypothetical warning about what could happen. She’s saying the vulnerabilities are being exploited right now.

The FCC draws a line

The US Federal Communications Commission enacted an import ban on new foreign-made humanoid robots, effective July 29, 2026. The ban specifically targets Chinese products over cybersecurity concerns.

Boston Dynamics executives have testified before Congress about specific flaws in systems developed by competitors like Unitree Robotics, a Chinese firm that has been steadily gaining ground in US market segments. Executives have pointed to remote manipulation and surveillance capabilities baked into these machines.

Unitree has been making inroads in sensitive areas like law enforcement and academia, two sectors where a compromised robot could do serious damage.

China’s robotics dominance by the numbers

China holding over 54% of the global robot deployment market means it isn’t just competitive in this space. It’s dominant.

McMaster took over as interim CEO in February 2026, following Robert Playter’s resignation on February 27, 2026.

Boston Dynamics isn’t the only US company with skin in this game. Tesla has been developing its Optimus humanoid robot, and coordinated efforts between American robotics firms may be necessary to maintain a competitive edge against China’s state-backed robotics ecosystem.

McMaster’s call for a national robotics strategy suggests the industry wants more than just protection from Chinese competition. It wants the kind of coordinated government support that China has been providing its own robotics sector for years.

Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.