FCC blocks new foreign-made drones, citing national security risks
The US decision to ban the sale of new foreign-made drones will have far more far-reaching consequences than just affecting pilots' ability to access new models and parts.
Drones do much more than just ruin a day at the park. Formally known as unmanned aircraft systems (UAVs), they are an integral part of numerous economic sectors, from real estate to agriculture and disaster mapping and engineering. The Federal Communications Commission's decision to change the list of drones that can be sold in the United States has implications far beyond the use of such devices for entertainment purposes.
On December 22, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) added products from Chinese drone makers DJI and Autel Robotics, as well as other foreign-made drones and critical components, to its “Protected List,” a selection of communications technologies that have been deemed a national security risk. This was stated by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. recent announcement that the goal is to “unleash American drone dominance.” Essentially, this means that new models of these drones cannot be imported or sold in the United States.
The FCC's decision is the latest move by the federal government to restrict Chinese technology. Like telecommunications and video surveillance equipment before them, drones raised concerns among US officials about potential attacks, disruptions and surveillance. Indeed, the FCC statement cited the 2026 FIFA World Cup, part of which will be hosted in the United States, and the country's 250th anniversary celebrations as reasons for proactive action.
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If you already have a foreign-made drone, you can keep it, and US retailers can sell previously approved models. But because the FCC's ruling applies to critical components, it could impact drone maintenance and repair as batteries, controllers and other parts become increasingly difficult to obtain. The ban has sparked an uproar among the country's nearly 500,000 certified commercial drone pilots: a survey of 8,000 pilots conducted by the Pilot Institute for the first time This is reported by Wall Street Journal, found that about 43 percent believed the ban would have a “very negative” or “potentially negative business impact” on their companies. Some have already begun stockpiling drones and parts in anticipation of a decision.
Even if you've never flown a drone, these aircraft have an impact on your life. Chances are there is at least one UAV in your city to conduct inspections or assist in emergency response, and it's likely that the device was manufactured overseas. Shenzhen, China-based DJI says it accounts for 70 to 90 percent of the commercial, local government and hobby market in the United States. Wall Street Journal.
I lookeda Vancouver-based geospatial data company scans regions using a freelance network of paid pilots; these pilots primarily fly DJI drones. “We rely on DJI Minis to do this,” says CEO Bill Lakeland. “We are now looking to diversify.” But American-made drones are often more expensive than their foreign counterparts; Spexi is exploring the possibility of creating its own equipment.
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