Archive · 23 Dec 2025
FCC Bans New Chinese Drones Over Security Risks
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the U.S. has decided to stop approving new drones and parts made by Chinese companies like DJI and Autel.
This is because they think these drones could be a risk to national security.
The drones that are already being used can still be used and sold.
DJI, which makes more than half of the drones used in the U.S., is disappointed but doesn't know why they were added to the list.
The FCC says drones could be used for spying or stealing data.
Some people in the U.S. government support this decision because they think it's important to keep the country safe.
Another Chinese company, Hikvision, is fighting this decision in court.
FCC added Chinese drone manufacturers DJI and Autel to its Covered List, barring new approvals for import or sale.
Existing drones can still be used and sold, but no new models or parts can be approved.
DJI, the largest drone maker, sells over 50% of U.S. commercial drones and expressed disappointment.
Security concerns include unauthorized surveillance, data exfiltration, and supply chain vulnerabilities.
Hikvision filed a lawsuit challenging the FCC's decision.
- Who
- FCC, DJI, Autel, Hikvision
- What
- FCC added Chinese drone manufacturers to Covered List
- When
- Recent, following a White House review
- Where
- United States
- Why
- National security risks, including surveillance and data exfiltration
- Organizations Affected
- DJI, Autel, and other Chinese drone manufacturers
- FCC Action
- Added to Covered List, barring new approvals
- Impact
- No new drone models or parts can be approved for import or sale
- Existing Drones
- Can still be used and sold
- DJI's Market Share
- Over 50% of U.S. commercial drones
- Security Concerns
- Unauthorized surveillance, data exfiltration, supply chain vulnerabilities
- Legal Action
- Hikvision filed suit challenging the FCC decision
- DJI's Response
- Disappointed, no specific information provided for the decision