Just to demonstrate the foolishness of IBM/NSA scenario.

If the back door is there on these supercomputers, then the chinese can perform modifications whereby selected data that was spied upon will "returns spurious information".

So Echelon can become "highly ineffective" in communicating information to the USA policy makers. Remember this information is transferred indirectly to the Congress and the Administration.

If we go a step further, since the DoD is using this information for tactical and stretegic planning it is devasting to the Security of the USA.

If there are back doors then the effect Echelon coupled with the IBM's supercomputer sales is the best offensive weapon system the PRC possesses aganst the USA.

The chinese understand IBM great need to sell; IBM has a hold via lobbying on NSA; and NSA's Echelon is an integral part of our intelligence community; therefore the chinese penetrated the inner secrets of the USA via this avenue.

If this is in the Cox report then it should be PUBLIC and an open debate occur in the Congress. This will aid immensely for world security.

However if IBM/NSA has no back door on these supercomputers, and since these supercomputers are used directly against the USA, then at present, and for the time being, all supercomputer of this type (IBM's RS6000 series etc) should be banned for sale to the PRC.

We can sell the chinese many many other commodities, develop a great relationship with them, and over some time possibly change---but not now.