The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented a new rule prohibiting the importation of drones manufactured in foreign countries into the United States, unless approved by either the Department of Defense (DoD) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This decision, made on Monday, adds drones to the FCC’s Covered List, categorizing foreign-made drones and their components, such as those from the company DJI, as “communications equipment” that present significant risks to U.S. national security and the safety of its citizens.

In response to the FCC’s decision, Adam Welsh, the head of global policy at DJI, expressed the company’s disappointment. He noted that although DJI was not directly targeted, the Executive Branch has not disclosed the specific information that led to their decision. Welsh emphasized DJI’s ongoing commitment to the U.S. market and reassured users that current products will continue to function normally. The FCC’s list also includes Kaspersky antivirus software, which was added in 2024, along with telecommunications equipment from Huawei and ZTE, included since 2021.

The FCC received a National Security Determination on December 21st from an interagency body, which highlighted that “uncrewed aircraft systems” (UAS) and crucial components made abroad could facilitate ongoing surveillance, unauthorized data extraction, and disruptive operations within U.S. borders. The determination also pointed out that U.S. cybersecurity and infrastructure guidelines have consistently warned that foreign-manufactured UAS could gather sensitive data, enable unauthorized remote access, or be disabled remotely via software updates.

The FCC’s fact sheet clarifies that current owners of foreign-made drones can continue using them. Drones or their components may be removed from the Covered List if either the DoD or DHS provides a specific determination to the FCC, indicating that they do not pose unacceptable risks.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr highlighted the potential of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, to enhance public safety while simultaneously reinforcing America’s leadership in global technological innovation.