Comment on FR Doc # 2026-09067

We understand and support the intent behind the proposed expansion of FOCI disclosure and mitigation requirements, particularly in strengthening supply chain security and protecting national interests. However, we consider that the rule would benefit from a more risk‑based approach in how it treats different categories of foreign ownership. In particular, we suggest consideration be given to exempting, or at least streamlining, FOCI requirements for companies based in Australia and the United Kingdom. Both are long‑standing and highly trusted defence partners of the United States, and the AUKUS framework is specifically intended to promote deeper industrial cooperation and supply chain integration between these countries. Applying full FOCI mitigation requirements to Australian and UK entities risks creating unnecessary compliance burden for low‑risk partners and may inadvertently hinder the broader objective of strengthening trusted supply chains. A tailored exception for AUKUS partners would, in our view, better align with wider defence policy objectives, while still maintaining appropriate safeguards for national security.