If this is factual, it shows a HQ-coordinated push to steal secrets about a single modified industrial robot. I don't understand why they put up so much effort for this one machine with questionable impact on their bottom line?
Most likely because it is institutionalized to steal IP and stolen IP is seen as more valuable than homegrown IP. The actors are financially incentivized by the company for any stolen tech (per the indictment). Add Chinese culture of pleasing the boss and you have the perfect recipe for this kind of behaviour.
Right. I've heard from friends in telco that Huawei techs would routinely open server racks during 3am service calls and photograph everything. This was years ago, but I'm guessing a company wide incentive program wouldn't get igored by many Huawei techs.
Never underestimate desperation. If they have a mandate to get a phone approved for reasons, I am sure the personal repercussions for failure are grave.
