FCC Imposes Restrictions on Some Foreign Drones
After a determination by the Trump administration, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and their component parts produced in foreign countries that pose “unacceptable risks to the national security of the United States and to the safety and security of U.S. persons” have been added to the FCC’s covered list of companies that present security risks, the agency announced Monday. The FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (see 2512110051) required the administration to review whether to add Chinese drone maker DJI to the covered list. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said last week that a decision was likely imminent (see 2512180047).
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Consumers can still use drones that they already own, and companies can continue to sell, import and market device models previously approved through the FCC’s equipment authorization process, the agency said, noting that the restrictions apply to models that aren't yet authorized. The list was updated Monday to include UAS devices and components but doesn’t mention specific companies.