The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Monday added China’s DJI, Autel, and all foreign-made drones and components to its “Covered List,” citing unacceptable risks to US national security. The designation blocks these companies from obtaining approvals for new drone models or critical components for sale or import in the United States.
While the move restricts new models, the FCC clarified that existing drones previously authorised may continue to be used legally, and imports or sales of those models are unaffected.
DJI, the world’s largest drone manufacturer, expressed disappointment over the decision, noting the company was not specifically singled out and that no supporting information from the executive branch had been disclosed. DJI warned that the move effectively bans the sale of new drones in the US, a market where it accounts for over half of commercial drones.
Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, said on Tuesday that China opposed the US “overly broad interpretation of the concept of national security” and setting up “discriminatory” lists. He urged Washington to “correct its wrong practices” and provide a fair environment for Chinese companies.
The FCC decision followed a White House-convened interagency review, which highlighted threats including unauthorised surveillance, sensitive data exfiltration, and supply chain vulnerabilities. The review also allowed for the Pentagon to remove specific drones or classes of drones from restrictions if they are later deemed safe.
Sebastian Gorka, senior director of counterterrorism at the National Security Council, said the move aims to ensure drones are manufactured in the US, citing national security and upcoming events such as the Olympics and World Cup. Republican Representative Rick Crawford praised the decision as necessary to prevent counterintelligence risks from widespread Chinese drone use.
DJI said earlier this month 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 move is part of broader US efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese technology, including a June executive order signed by President Donald Trump targeting Chinese drone companies. Legal challenges continue, with Hikvision recently filing suit to contest FCC restrictions on equipment from companies on the Covered List.
The FCC emphasised that the ban targets new approvals only, leaving room for future reassessments and removals if security concerns are mitigated.
Melissa Enoch
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