Republicans Urge Trump To Fast-Track Drone Security Review

Leading House Republicans have called on the Trump administration to expedite a national security review of Chinese-made drones amid growing concern over data security and foreign influence. The lawmakers urged Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard to complete the mandated review within 30 days.

The request targets DJI Technologies and Autel Robotics, two Chinese companies with significant U.S. market share in drone technology. DJI alone holds more than 70% of the American civilian drone market.

National Security At Center Of Drone Debate

The review is part of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which allows for companies deemed a risk to be added to the Federal Communications Commission’s Covered List—effectively banning their drones from U.S. markets.

In a letter sent Thursday, Representatives John Moolenaar, Rick Crawford, and Elise Stefanik cited the need to align with President Donald Trump’s June executive order prioritizing domestic drone supply chains and minimizing foreign technological influence.

“This review is critical,” they wrote, “given the substantial market presence and existing use of equipment made by these companies.”

DJI Pushes Back, Calls For Fair Audit

DJI, also known as Shenzhen Da-Jiang Innovations, has denied posing any threat to U.S. national security. The company said it has never been asked to share user data under Chinese law and noted it had passed multiple cybersecurity assessments.

In a June blog post, DJI said it welcomed a security audit and asked for “a fair and transparent process.” Still, it remains on the Pentagon’s blacklist of Chinese companies with alleged military ties.

If the review proceeds as requested, a formal ban on new DJI and Autel drones could be imposed later this year.