^{Photo: CNN}

A Major Shift in the US Drone Market
The Federal Communications Commission has introduced a sweeping restriction on foreign-made drones, effectively barring the import and sale of new models from companies deemed national security risks. This includes the world’s largest drone manufacturer DJI as well as Autel Robotics. The move does not affect drones already approved or currently in use, but it signals a major step in Washington’s effort to curb foreign influence in critical drone technology.

DJI, which commands roughly 70 percent of the global drone market, has dominated U.S. skies for years, serving private consumers, law enforcement, firefighting units, and professional videographers. Chinese drones have been integral for infrastructure inspections, agricultural monitoring, and commercial media production across the country.

National Security and Regulatory Action
The FCC’s decision follows mandates from the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act requiring a thorough security review of drones and related components manufactured by DJI, Autel, and other foreign companies. A White House-convened interagency panel determined that foreign-made drones could facilitate persistent surveillance, data exfiltration, and potential destructive operations over U.S. territory.

FCC Chair Brendan Carr emphasized that the action is designed to secure U.S. airspace without disrupting ongoing operations of already authorized devices. “This approach protects national security while allowing Americans to continue safely using previously purchased drones,” Carr said.

Industry Response and International Reactions
DJI expressed disappointment over the ban and called for transparency regarding the information underpinning the FCC’s decision. The company reiterated its commitment to U.S. operations and product safety, highlighting independent reviews that vouch for its technology.

Chinese authorities criticized the move, labeling it discriminatory. Lin Jian, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urged the U.S. to provide a fair and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese businesses.

Historical Concerns Over DJI and Chinese Drones
Security concerns about Chinese-made drones are not new. In 2017 the U.S. Army banned DJI drones, citing cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and the Department of Homeland Security warned that sensitive flight data could be transmitted to China. Over subsequent years, DJI has faced multiple U.S. sanctions, including placement on the Commerce Department’s Entity List in 2020 and investment restrictions from the Treasury Department. In 2022, the Department of Defense labeled DJI as potentially collaborating with China’s military, a claim the company has contested in court.

Looking Ahead
The FCC’s ban is part of broader U.S. efforts to encourage domestic drone production and reduce reliance on foreign technology. It also underscores growing scrutiny of Chinese tech companies in strategic industries, following similar restrictions on Huawei and ZTE. For U.S. consumers, businesses, and public agencies, this represents a turning point in how drones are sourced, regulated, and integrated into operations nationwide.