FCC Bans New Foreign-Made Drones Over Security Concerns

Tue Dec 23 2025 07:09:33 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a significant move to enhance national security, the FCC has announced a ban on new foreign-made drones, mainly focusing on popular Chinese brands like DJI. This decision aims to safeguard against potential threats amid growing concerns about data security and dependency on foreign technology.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented a ban on new foreign-made drones, especially targeting Chinese manufacturers such as DJI and Autel. This decision stems from a review prompted by national security worries highlighted in a recent defense bill. Concerns over data security and foreign influence on the drone market have led to a call for increased domestic drone production in the U.S. Industry leaders express mixed feelings, highlighting both the need for national security and the potential impacts on businesses reliant on these drones.

In a landmark decision that underscores the increasing tension surrounding national security, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced a ban on the sale of new foreign-made drones in the United States. This ruling primarily impacts Chinese companies, particularly DJI and Autel, which have grown dominant in sectors like agriculture, law enforcement, and filmmaking.

The announcement follows a year after Congress passed a defense bill that raised alarms over the implications posed by foreign drones. The legislation mandated a review of potential risks these drones could pose to U.S. security, which the FCC determined merited a complete ban due to unacceptable risks associated with all foreign-produced drones.

This decision comes as the U.S. prepares for major upcoming events, including the World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics, where potential drone threats from malicious entities could pose significant challenges. The FCC acknowledged that any foreign drones or components may be exempt only if deemed safe by the Department of Defense or the Department of Homeland Security.

Industry leaders have expressed diverse reactions to the FCC's ruling. Michael Robbins, CEO of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), welcomed the move, emphasizing the necessity for the U.S. to bolster its domestic drone manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on China. Recent history underscores why the United States must increase domestic drone production and secure its supply chains, Robbins stated.

On the other hand, DJI expressed disappointment over the FCC's decision, questioning the basis of the information that led to the ban. They argued that concerns about data security lack evidence and seem more aligned with protectionist sentiment than public safety. Many users, such as law enforcement personnel in Texas, voiced concerns that the restrictions could hinder their operations, as they rely on DJI drones for training and forensic work.

Meanwhile, American drone manufacturers like Hylio view this shakeup as an opportunity for growth, signaling a shift in the market that could foster investment in local production. Nevertheless, some industry experts have cautioned that the FCC's broad characterization could have unpredictable consequences on innovation and international collaborations in drone technology.