FCC Bans Foreign-Made Drones Over Security Concerns

Foreign Drones Placed on Blacklist

The Federal Communications Commission said foreign-made drones pose “an unacceptable risk” to U.S. national security and public safety. As a result, manufacturers placed on the Covered List can no longer receive FCC authorization to sell new drone models in the U.S.

The ruling does not affect drones already sold or currently operating in the country, according to the FCC.

DJI Hit Hardest by Ruling

The decision is expected to affect DJI most severely, as the company accounts for more than 90 percent of the global commercial drone market. U.S. lawmakers have repeatedly warned that Chinese-made drones could provide Beijing access to sensitive infrastructure and geographic data.

FCC Chair Brendan Carr said hostile foreign actors have increasingly weaponized drone technologies, creating new risks ranging from unauthorized surveillance to direct disruptions.

Industry and Political Reaction

Supporters of the move say the ban strengthens U.S. security and protects domestic drone manufacturing. Critics warn it could disrupt sectors such as law enforcement, agriculture, construction, mining, and emergency services, where foreign-made drones are widely used.

China’s embassy criticized the decision, accusing Washington of overstretching national security justifications and undermining global supply chains. DJI said it was “disappointed” and questioned the transparency of the FCC’s assessment.