Core Viewpoint - Domestic hydropower stations are replacing Western industrial control systems with domestically produced programmable logic controllers (PLCs) that utilize Loongson processors to enhance security and avoid vulnerabilities associated with networked systems [1][11]. Group 1: Industry Context - The switch to domestic PLCs signifies a broader trend in China's hydropower sector, where major facilities like the Xiluodu, Three Gorges, and Xiangjiaba hydropower stations have adopted new control systems [11]. - Historically, the PLC market has been dominated by foreign companies, with Siemens S7-300 and Schneider Premium series being commonly used in Chinese hydropower stations, which posed significant security risks [7][11]. Group 2: Technological Implications - The new PLCs developed by Aotuo Technology are based on the Loongson processor, featuring extensive communication interfaces and program space to ensure efficient operation [9][15]. - The ability to customize communication protocols and functionalities allows these PLCs to adapt to complex control scenarios, fulfilling the operational requirements of critical equipment like the tubular valve [9][11]. Group 3: Security Concerns - The reliance on foreign control systems has raised alarms about potential backdoors and vulnerabilities that could be exploited for remote control of critical infrastructure [11][13]. - Historical incidents, such as the Stuxnet virus attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, highlight the risks associated with using foreign PLCs, emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency in critical technology [13][15]. Group 4: Future Directions - The ongoing geopolitical tensions necessitate that China develops its own technology in communication and chip sectors to mitigate risks associated with foreign dependencies [17][48]. - Establishing a fully domestic ecosystem for both hardware and software is essential to eliminate potential backdoors and ensure the security of industrial control systems [46][48].