The US denies approval for new DJI models and other drones manufactured abroad
The US FCC has prohibited new models of DJI and foreign drones due to security concerns, while existing devices continue to be unaffected.
On Monday, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) included China’s DJI, Autel, and all foreign-made drones and components on its “Covered List,” highlighting significant risks to US national security. The designation prevents these companies from securing approvals for new drone models or essential components for sale or import in the United States.
The recent decision limits the introduction of new models; however, the FCC has made it clear that previously authorized drones can still be used legally, and the importation or sale of those models remains unchanged.
DJI, the leading drone manufacturer globally, conveyed its disappointment regarding the decision, emphasizing that the company was not explicitly targeted and that no additional information from the executive branch had been provided. DJI cautioned that the action essentially prohibits the sale of new drones in the US, a market in which it holds more than half of the commercial drone share.
On Tuesday, Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, expressed China’s opposition to the US’s “overly broad interpretation of the concept of national security” and the establishment of “discriminatory” lists. He called on Washington to “rectify its misguided practices” and create a just environment for Chinese companies.
The FCC’s decision came after an interagency review convened by the White House, which underscored threats such as unauthorized surveillance, sensitive data exfiltration, and vulnerabilities in the supply chain. The review also permitted the Pentagon to lift restrictions on certain drones or categories of drones if they are subsequently considered safe.
Sebastian Gorka, senior director of counterterrorism at the National Security Council, stated that the initiative seeks to guarantee that drones are produced in the United States, referencing national security concerns and forthcoming events like the Olympics and World Cup. Republican Representative Rick Crawford commended the decision as essential to mitigate counterintelligence threats posed by the extensive use of Chinese drones.
Earlier this month, DJI stated that “more than 80% of the nation’s 1,800+ state and local law enforcement and emergency response agencies that operate drone programs use DJI technology; these programs will be at immediate risk if they no longer have access to the most cost effective and efficient drone technology available.”
The action is part of wider US initiatives aimed at decreasing dependence on Chinese technology, which includes a June executive order issued by President Donald Trump that focuses on Chinese drone companies. Legal challenges persist, as Hikvision has recently initiated a lawsuit to dispute the FCC’s restrictions on equipment from companies included on the Covered List.
The FCC highlighted that the ban applies solely to new approvals, allowing for potential future evaluations and removals should security issues be addressed.
