This article summarizes reporting by Reuters and official public notices from the Federal Communications Commission.

FCC Adds DJI and All Foreign Drones to “Covered List,” Blocking New Authorizations

On December 22, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officially placed DJI, Autel Robotics, and broadly defined “foreign-made” drones on its “Covered List.” According to reporting by Reuters and official agency releases, this action effectively prohibits the authorization of new foreign drone models for import or sale within the United States. The decision cites national security risks and follows a deadline established by the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

The ruling represents a significant shift in the American aviation landscape. By adding these entities to the list, the FCC has determined that telecommunications and video surveillance equipment produced by these manufacturers poses an unacceptable risk to national security. While the ban prevents new certifications, it notably includes a “grandfather” clause for equipment already in use.

According to Reuters, the inclusion of DJI, the world’s largest drone manufacturer, along with its competitor Autel Robotics, marks the culmination of years of regulatory scrutiny regarding data privacy and supply chain vulnerabilities.

The Scope of the Restriction

The FCC’s order is sweeping in its definition. While it specifically names industry giants DJI (Da-Jiang Innovations) and Autel Robotics, the ruling extends to “uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and UAS critical components produced in a foreign country.”

Legal Basis and Timeline

The action was triggered by Section 1709 of the FY25 NDAA, which mandated a security review of major foreign drone manufacturers by December 23, 2025. Because no federal agency cleared these companies by the deadline, they were automatically processed for inclusion on the Covered List. Furthermore, an Executive Branch interagency review concluded that foreign-made UAS present risks regarding unauthorized surveillance and sensitive data exfiltration.

Exceptions for Defense

The ruling does allow for specific exceptions. According to the source material, exemptions may be granted if the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or the Department of War determines that a specific drone model does not pose a security risk. This suggests a potential pathway for allied nations to secure waivers, though the process remains undefined.

Impact on Operators and the Market

For the commercial drone industry, which relies heavily on DJI hardware, the implications are immediate but nuanced. The ruling creates a distinct separation between existing fleets and future technology.

Existing Fleets Remain Legal

Crucially, the ban is not retroactive. Operators currently flying DJI Mavic 3, Mini 4, or Matrice series drones may continue to do so legally. Retailers are also permitted to sell existing inventory and models that received FCC authorization prior to the December 22 ruling. The restriction applies strictly to new models seeking FCC certification after this date.

Supply Chain and Repairs

While current drones can fly, maintaining them may become difficult. The ban extends to “critical components,” including flight controllers and data transmission devices. Industry analysis suggests this could complicate the supply chain for repair parts, potentially forcing operators to retire fleets earlier than planned as components become scarce.

Official Responses

The decision has elicited strong reactions from both US officials and the affected manufacturers.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr supported the move, framing it as a necessary defense measure. In a statement regarding the decision, Carr emphasized the threat landscape:

“Criminals, terrorists, and hostile foreign actors have intensified their weaponization of these technologies, creating new and serious threats to our homeland.”

, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr (Source: FCC Public Notice)

DJI expressed disappointment with the ruling, arguing that they were caught in a broad regulatory sweep without specific evidence of wrongdoing. A spokesperson for the company stated:

“No information has been released regarding what information was used by the Executive Branch in reaching its determination.”

, DJI Spokesperson (Source: Web Search Summary)

Meanwhile, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the action, describing it as an “overly broad interpretation of national security” that violates fair trade principles.

AirPro News Analysis

The Cost of Sovereignty: This ruling appears to be a case of industrial policy intersecting with national defense. While the security concerns regarding data leakage are well-documented, the “all foreign” scope of the ban creates an immediate supply shock. DJI currently holds an estimated 70-80% of the US commercial market. Domestic alternatives, such as Skydio or Brinc, are frequently cited by operators as being significantly more expensive, often 3 to 5 times the cost, while sometimes lacking the manufacturing scale to immediately fill the void.

We anticipate a chaotic transition period for sectors like agriculture and public safety, which operate on tight budgets and rely on affordable foreign hardware. The “Department of War” terminology referenced in recent communications signals a hardening of US military posture, suggesting that economic friction in the drone sector is now viewed entirely through a lens of combat readiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still fly my DJI drone?
Yes. The ruling does not affect drones currently owned or operated. Existing FCC authorizations remain valid.

Can I buy a new DJI drone today?
Yes, provided the model was authorized by the FCC before December 22, 2025. Retailers can sell through existing stock of certified models.

Will this affect drone repairs?
Likely yes. Because “critical components” are also on the Covered List, importing replacement parts for foreign drones may become legally difficult, potentially leading to a gray market for repairs.

Does this ban apply to drones from allied countries?
Technically, yes. The ruling covers “all foreign-made” drones. However, manufacturers from allied nations may seek exemptions through the DoD or DHS.

Sources: Reuters, Federal Communications Commission