FCC Bans Import of New Foreign-Made Drones into the U.S. Over National Security Concerns
January 9, 2026
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has imposed a new restriction on the importation of drones manufactured outside the United States. Effective immediately, new foreign-made drones and their components, such as those from DJI, are added to the FCC’s Covered List, barring their entry into the U.S. unless authorized by the Department of Defense (DoD) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
This decision stems from concerns that these uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and critical parts might pose significant risks to national security and public safety. The FCC’s action reflects findings from an interagency assessment conducted on December 21st, which indicated that foreign-made UAS could allow for persistent surveillance, data exfiltration, and potentially destructive operations within U.S. territory. The report emphasized that such devices could be exploited for unauthorized data collection or remote disabling via software updates.
Despite the ban, current owners of foreign-made drones are not prohibited from using them. The FCC clarified that existing devices can continue operation, and drones or their components can be removed from the Covered List if the DoD or DHS determines they no longer pose unacceptable risks.
DJI, a leading manufacturer from China, expressed disappointment with the FCC’s move. Adam Welsh, DJI’s head of global policy, stated that the company was not singled out and expressed concern that no specific information was provided regarding the evidence used in this decision. Welsh affirmed DJI’s ongoing commitment to the U.S. market and noted that existing products could continue to be used as usual.
Other items previously added to the FCC’s Covered List include Kaspersky anti-virus software (added in 2024) and telecommunications equipment from Huawei and ZTE (added in 2021). The FCC’s actions highlight ongoing efforts to mitigate potential security vulnerabilities associated with foreign technology products.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr emphasized the potential benefits of drones for public safety and U.S. leadership in innovation, asserting that purchasing restrictions are necessary to protect national interests.
Follow this story and related topics for updates, and stay informed about how security measures continue to shape the technology landscape.