U.S. Government Moves to Restrict Foreign Made Drones Impacting DJI and Future Sales
Washington, D.C. The U.S. government has taken a major step toward limiting the presence of foreign made drones in American airspace, a move that will significantly impact DJI, the world’s largest drone manufacturer. In late December, the Federal Communications Commission added certain foreign manufactured drones and critical drone components to its Covered List, citing national security concerns.
The decision effectively blocks new drone models and essential equipment made by foreign companies from receiving FCC authorization, which is required for legal import and sale in the United States. While the policy does not immediately ground drones already in use, it creates a firm barrier against future DJI releases unless specific exemptions are granted.
Federal officials say the action is aimed at reducing the risk of foreign surveillance, data collection, and reliance on overseas technology. The move comes as the United States prepares for major international events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, increasing scrutiny on airspace security and critical infrastructure protection.
Importantly, existing DJI drones that were approved before the ruling remain legal to use and resell. Recreational pilots, filmmakers, photographers, and businesses can continue operating current equipment without interruption. However, future DJI drones, updates, and newly released components could be blocked from entering the U.S. market under the new restrictions.
The policy follows years of debate in Congress over the role of foreign manufactured drones in public safety, commercial operations, and consumer use. Lawmakers previously required national security reviews of drone technology by the end of 2025. When those reviews did not result in clearance, regulators moved forward with the FCC restrictions.
DJI has criticized the decision, stating that it was disappointed by the ruling and arguing that there has been no public evidence showing its drones pose a national security threat. The company reaffirmed its commitment to U.S. customers and emphasized that current products remain operational.
China’s government has also pushed back against the policy, calling it discriminatory and warning that it could damage trade relations. Meanwhile, reaction within the drone community has been divided.
Supporters of the ban argue it will strengthen domestic drone manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign supply chains. Critics warn that the absence of competitive U.S. alternatives, particularly at lower price points, could drive up costs and slow innovation for industries that rely heavily on drone technology, including media production, agriculture, construction, and emergency response.
As the policy takes effect, industry experts say exemptions and future reviews could shape how strictly the rules are enforced. For now, the decision marks a significant shift in U.S. drone policy, signaling a stronger emphasis on national security and domestic production over global market access.
