The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) yesterday banned the import of all drones and new components used in drones if they are made abroad. The ban officially bans the import of drones made by DJI and Autel into the US market.
According to the FCC, drones made in foreign countries “pose a security risk” to the country. This is an action to ensure the safety of US airspace and boost the local drone manufacturing industry. No new drones will be allowed to be brought in, as well as spare parts needed by drone owners. In other words, users in the US will have to find alternative drones made by local companies to replace their current foreign-made drones.
Through the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed by Congress in December last year, US security agencies must conduct a formal assessment of Chinese-made drones. The audit will be conducted within a year to fairly determine whether existing drone technology poses a real risk or not.
In June, DJI said that security agencies have not yet conducted an audit on them despite a request to do so being sent in March. DJI said they did not want to be the victim of being banned due to the authorities' failure to conduct an audit within the stipulated period. DJI insisted that they were prepared to be audited and believed that no security issues would be found.