On Monday, the Federal Communications Commission under the Trump administration banned all new foreign-made drone models from distribution in the United States. The agency cited national security concerns as the reason for this decision. Americans who already own older foreign drone models will still be permitted to use them.
In a fact sheet published Monday, the FCC claimed that drones could be used by criminals, hostile foreign actors, and terrorists to present serious new threats to homeland security. As a result, the agency updated its Covered List. This list details products deemed to pose an unacceptable risk to national security. The update now includes all unmanned aircraft systems and their critical components produced abroad.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr expressed his approval of the new policy. He welcomed the Executive Branch’s national security determination and stated that the FCC was pleased to add these foreign drones and components to its Covered List. Carr said that, following President Trump’s leadership, the FCC would work closely with American drone manufacturers to unleash U.S. drone dominance.
The new rule will impact many companies, but it is particularly significant for the Chinese drone maker DJI. DJI is currently the dominant player in global drone sales and is one of the most popular drone brands among American consumers.
When contacted for comment, DJI stated its disapproval of the decision. The company expressed disappointment at being included in the Covered List and noted that no specific information was released regarding the evidence used by the Executive Branch to reach its determination. DJI said it remains committed to the U.S. market, advocating for an open, competitive landscape that benefits consumers and commercial users. The company emphasized that its products are among the safest and most secure available, citing years of reviews by U.S. government agencies and independent third parties.
Throughout his administrations, President Trump has repeatedly taken a firm stance against Chinese companies. The groundwork for this drone ban was laid by an executive order passed in June. That order sought to boost the production of American-made drones, foster a strong domestic drone sector, and secure the U.S. drone supply chain against foreign control or exploitation.