The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced a decisive measure banning the import of new drone models and critical components produced by foreign companies, including global giants DJI and Autel from China, stating these devices could be channels for espionage and pose threats to national security.
The United States has declared a ban on importing new drone models and key parts from foreign manufacturers, particularly Chinese companies DJI and Autel, after the FCC decided to list these firms on the "Covered List," which includes devices considered threats to national security.
Being added to this list means DJI, Autel, and other foreign drone makers cannot obtain FCC certification to sell new drone models or critical components in the U.S., effectively blocking their market entry. However, this measure does not affect previously authorized drone models nor prohibit the use of drones already legally purchased by consumers.
This action follows a December 2024 Congressional order requiring DJI and Autel be added to the Covered List within one year unless a security review allows continued sales. It marks an escalation in the U.S. crackdown on Chinese-made drones. In September, the U.S. Commerce Department signaled plans for even stricter import restrictions than those imposed by the FCC.
The FCC stated that a risk review conducted by an interagency task force convened by the White House found imported drones and parts pose security risks due to unauthorized surveillance threats, sensitive data leaks, supply chain vulnerabilities, and other dangers to the country. The review allows the U.S. Department of Defense to consider lifting restrictions in the future if certain drones are deemed safe.
DJI, the world's largest drone maker, expressed disappointment with the decision, saying that although the company was not named specifically, no information or evidence was disclosed by the administration to justify the measure. DJI emphasized that inclusion on the Covered List effectively bans new drone sales in the U.S., a market where it holds over half the commercial drone share and its technology is used by more than 1,800 state and local law enforcement and rescue agencies.
China responded immediately, with a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemning the U.S. interpretation of "national security" as excessive and discriminatory. The spokesperson called on the U.S. to correct its flawed approach and create a fair environment for Chinese companies. Meanwhile, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated it would take necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights of its businesses.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order in June aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese drone companies. The White House and FCC cited concerns about drone misuse, especially during upcoming Olympic and World Cup events. Republican legislators supported the measures, describing widespread Chinese drone access to U.S. airspace as an "intelligence nightmare" for years.
Previously, Chinese manufacturer Hikvision sued the Washington D.C. Court of Appeals challenging the FCC's authority to suspend approvals of new devices. In September, a U.S. court denied DJI's request to remove its name from the Department of Defense's list accusing the company of links to the Chinese military.