The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Monday banned all newly manufactured foreign drones and components, citing that the equipment poses ‘an unacceptable risk’ to national security. The move primarily targets Chinese drone-maker DJI, following concerns that its technology could give Beijing access to critical U.S. infrastructure.
The agency said that the move “will reduce the risk of direct attacks and disruptions, unauthorized surveillance, sensitive data exfiltration, and other threats to the homeland.”
The technology was added to the FCC’s ‘Covered List’ in 2021, preventing DJI and other foreign drone makers from obtaining the agency’s approval to import or sell new drone models in the U.S.
The decision came a year after Congress approved the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which required a security review of equipment from DJI, Autel, and other foreign drone manufacturers, highlighting security risks.
The regulator affirmed that its decision followed the findings of a White House-led interagency review released Sunday on the risks of foreign-made drones.
On Monday, the FCC said the review concluded that all drones and key components manufactured abroad—not only those from Chinese firms—pose unacceptable threats to U.S. national security and the safety of its citizens.
However, it noted that certain drones or parts could be exempt if the Pentagon or the Department of Homeland Security determined they did not pose such risks.
According to market research firm Research and Markets, DJI holds roughly 70% of the global drone market. Outside of government applications, Chinese drones are extensively used across the U.S. for infrastructure and construction inspections, crop monitoring, and by both professional and hobbyist videographers.
Monday’s action by the FCC is the latest step in a series of U.S. government measures targeting Chinese technologies. In June, President Donald Trump issued an executive order aimed at boosting domestic drone production and commercialization to reduce reliance on foreign controls.
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