The Federal Communications Commission announced on December 22, 2025, that it will ban the import and sale of all new drone models made by foreign manufacturers, effectively shutting Chinese drone giant DJI out of the American market in one of the most significant technology restrictions to date. The decision adds DJI and other foreign drone makers to a "Covered List" of entities deemed to pose an unacceptable risk to United States national security.
The sweeping ban prohibits new drone models and critical equipment from entering the U.S. market, though existing devices that were previously authorized can continue to be used by their current owners. The announcement came after the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act mandated a security review of equipment produced by DJI, Autel, and other foreign drone manufacturers, with a deadline of December 23, 2025.
DJI, which produces seven out of every ten drones sold worldwide, expressed deep disappointment with the decision. In a statement, the company said "Concerns about DJI's data security have not been grounded in evidence and instead reflect protectionism, contrary to the principles of an open market." The Chinese manufacturer announced it would appeal the ruling through available legal channels.
China's foreign ministry responded sharply, with spokesperson Lin Jian calling the ban "discriminatory" and urging the Trump administration to "correct its wrong practices." Beijing characterized the move as part of a broader pattern of American economic coercion targeting Chinese technology companies.
The House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party praised the decision, stating it "will help safeguard our national security, protect the American people, and wind down the unacceptable national security threat posed by DJI and other Chinese drones." Industry analysts noted the broad scope of the ban, which extends to all foreign-made drones and drone components, potentially reshaping the American drone market for years to come.
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