The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Monday banned the distribution of all new foreign-made drone models in the United States, citing national security concerns, while allowing Americans who already own such drones to continue using them.
In a fact sheet released by the agency, the FCC said drones could be exploited by “criminals, hostile foreign actors, and terrorists” to pose threats to national security. As a result, the commission updated its Covered List — which identifies products deemed to present unacceptable security risks — to include all unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and critical drone components manufactured outside the United States.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr welcomed the move, saying it followed a national security determination by the executive branch. He said the commission would work with domestic manufacturers to strengthen U.S. drone production, adding that foreign-made drones and related components pose unacceptable risks.
The decision is expected to significantly affect the global drone market, particularly Chinese manufacturer DJI, which dominates consumer drone sales in the United States. DJI said it was disappointed by the FCC’s action, noting that no details had been provided on the basis for the decision. The company said it remains committed to the U.S. market and maintains that its products are secure and have been reviewed by U.S. government agencies and independent bodies.
The ban builds on earlier efforts by the Trump administration to reduce reliance on foreign technology, including a June executive order aimed at boosting domestic drone manufacturing and securing the U.S. drone supply chain from foreign influence.
