SpaceX's Starlink routers granted exemption from US foreign device ban

The Trump administration has exempted SpaceX's Starlink routers from a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ban targeting foreign-made network devices. The approval is valid until February 1, 2028.

According to a public notice from the FCC, the Starlink routers received explicit approval from the Department of Defense. The FCC had recently updated its "Covered List," which includes consumer-grade routers manufactured at least partly outside the U.S., unless they receive an exemption. Devices on this list are deemed to pose an unacceptable risk to national security.

Given that most routers are manufactured internationally or incorporate foreign components, virtually all major vendors require such exemptions to operate. SpaceX's Starlink service was thus dependent on this particular waiver to continue functioning within the U.S. market.

This exemption allows SpaceX additional time to ensure its network hardware complies with U.S. regulations or to develop compliant alternatives. The decision reflects a growing trend of national security considerations impacting global technology supply chains and market access.