- The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) banned drones and critical components made abroad over national security risks.
- Foreign-made drones, including those from DJI and Autel Robotics, are restricted from the U.S. market.
- The ban covers uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and their critical communication and surveillance parts.
- Exemptions may apply if the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirms no threat.
- The move aims to protect U.S. airspace ahead of major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced on December 23, 2025, a ban on all drones and related critical components manufactured in foreign countries due to national security concerns. This ban adds uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and critical components to the agency’s Covered List under the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). It targets models from foreign makers such as DJI and Autel Robotics, prohibiting them from entering the U.S. market.
The FCC stated that while drones can enhance public safety and innovation, hostile entities could misuse them for surveillance, attacks, or data theft. Following a review by an Executive Branch interagency group with national security expertise, the agency concluded that foreign-produced UAS and critical parts pose “unacceptable risks to the national security of the United States and to the safety and security of U.S. persons.” The ban is intended to secure American airspace, especially with upcoming large-scale events including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics.
The prohibition covers UAS components such as data transmission devices, communications systems, flight controllers, ground control stations, navigation systems, batteries, and motors manufactured abroad. The FCC emphasized that “UAS and UAS critical components must be produced in the United States” to reduce threats like unauthorized surveillance and data exfiltration.
Certain drones or parts may receive exemptions if the Department of Homeland Security determines they do not present risks. The ban does not affect consumers’ use of drones previously purchased, nor does it stop retailers from selling or importing models approved earlier in the year.
This regulatory update follows President Donald Trump’s December 2025 signing of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which includes measures to secure U.S. airspace from unmanned aircraft posing public threats. Earlier, in July 2024, the Covered List was expanded to restrict the Russian Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky from offering its software in the United States.
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