The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has imposed a ban on the import and sale of all new foreign-made drone models, including those from the Chinese manufacturer DJI, citing national security risks. This decision, which does not affect existing drones, represents a major policy shift aimed at reducing American reliance on foreign drone technology.
The FCC announced on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, that it has added foreign-made unmanned aircraft systems and critical components to its “Covered List,” preventing new device models from receiving FCC equipment authorization. Without such authorization, these drones cannot be imported, marketed, or sold in the United States. The move specifically targets new models from manufacturers like DJI, which dominates the global market, but excludes drones already approved or in use. FCC Chair Brendan Carr stated that the action aims to secure U.S. airspace while minimizing disruption to current users.
This decision stems from a national security determination made by an interagency body convened by the White House, which concluded that foreign-made drones pose “unacceptable risks” due to potential surveillance, data exfiltration, and destructive capabilities. The review was mandated by the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which required an assessment of risks associated with drones from certain foreign adversaries. The FCC’s fact sheet emphasizes that reliance on foreign-made UAS undermines the U.S. drone industrial base, framing the issue beyond immediate security threats to include economic and supply chain concerns.
DJI, the world’s largest drone maker, has expressed disappointment over the ban, arguing that it lacks transparency and is based on protectionism rather than evidence. A company spokesperson stated that no information has been released regarding the executive branch’s determination, and DJI products have undergone independent reviews confirming their safety and security. The company remains committed to the U.S. market and highlighted that existing products can continue to be used and purchased as usual.
The FCC’s action is part of a broader pattern of U.S. restrictions on Chinese technology. Over the past decade, DJI has faced multiple sanctions, including being placed on the Commerce Department’s Entity List and the Department of Defense’s list of firms linked to the Chinese military. These measures reflect longstanding concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities and data privacy issues associated with Chinese-made drones, which have been used extensively by American consumers, businesses, and public safety agencies.
For drone users in the U.S., the immediate impact is limited to future models, allowing a transition period for fleets to adapt. Operators can continue using and selling previously authorized drones, but the ban signals a push toward domestic alternatives. However, industry experts note that U.S.-manufactured drones often lack the cost-effectiveness and advanced features of DJI products, posing challenges for sectors like agriculture, construction, and emergency services that rely on drone technology.
The Chinese government has criticized the move as discriminatory, with a foreign ministry spokesperson calling for a fair and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese companies. This tension adds to ongoing trade and technology disputes between the U.S. and China, highlighting how national security concerns are increasingly shaping global tech markets.
Looking ahead, the FCC has indicated that exceptions may be granted if the Department of Defense or Homeland Security determines that specific drones do not pose risks. This leaves room for future adjustments, but for now, the policy marks a decisive step in reshaping the U.S. drone landscape. As the industry navigates these changes, stakeholders are urging for clearer guidelines and support for domestic innovation to ensure a smooth transition and maintain technological competitiveness.
