Trump’s tax bill gives Anduril a monopoly on “autonomous” border surveillance towers
Tucked into President Trump’s tax bill, which was singed into law last week, is $6 billion allocated for “border security, technology and screening,” a key piece of his administration’s plan to restrict immigration to the US.
The Intercept reports that one restriction on the application of these funds is likely to benefit only one company: weapons manufacturer Anduril.
“(b) Restrictions.--None of the funds made available under
subsection (a) may be used for the procurement or deployment of
surveillance towers along the southwest border and northern border that have not been tested and accepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to deliver autonomous capabilities.”
Backed by Trump supporter, venture capitalist, and hardcore “The Lord of the Rings” fan Peter Thiel (via his Founders Fund), Anduril just so happens to be the only company selling “autonomous” surveillance towers that have been certified by CBP, such as the company’s “Sentry” towers.
This restriction gives Anduril a massive edge, and effectively grants a monopoly on this type of border tech.
The Intercept reports that one restriction on the application of these funds is likely to benefit only one company: weapons manufacturer Anduril.
“(b) Restrictions.--None of the funds made available under
subsection (a) may be used for the procurement or deployment of
surveillance towers along the southwest border and northern border that have not been tested and accepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to deliver autonomous capabilities.”
Backed by Trump supporter, venture capitalist, and hardcore “The Lord of the Rings” fan Peter Thiel (via his Founders Fund), Anduril just so happens to be the only company selling “autonomous” surveillance towers that have been certified by CBP, such as the company’s “Sentry” towers.
This restriction gives Anduril a massive edge, and effectively grants a monopoly on this type of border tech.
