The United States has officially banned the sale of foreign-made drones and their critical components, confirming long-standing speculation surrounding Chinese drone giant DJI and significantly reshaping the US consumer drone market.
The decision was announced by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and applies broadly to all drones and essential drone parts manufactured outside the United States. While DJI is the most affected company due to its dominance in the global consumer drone market, the ban impacts every foreign manufacturer seeking approval to sell new drone models in the US.
According to the FCC, multiple US security agencies concluded that foreign-made drones and key components pose an “unacceptable risk” to national security. Based on these assessments, regulators have blocked authorization for new foreign-manufactured drone models, effectively preventing their future entry into the US market.
The restrictions apply only to new drone approvals and future models. Consumers who already own foreign-made drones can continue using them without any limitations.
Retailers are also permitted to sell existing inventory of drone models that have already received FCC approval. The ban does not affect drones currently in circulation or those already authorized before the ruling.
The policy allows for limited flexibility. The Department of Defense or the Department of Homeland Security may approve specific foreign-made drone models on a case-by-case basis in the future if they meet US security requirements.
This means some foreign drones could still be cleared for sale, though such approvals are expected to be rare and tightly controlled.
DJI has strongly rejected the security concerns cited by US authorities. In a statement, the company said its drones are “among the safest and most secure on the market.”
DJI noted that its products have undergone years of reviews by US government agencies and independent third parties. The company argued that the allegations lack concrete evidence and reflect protectionist policies rather than legitimate national security risks.
The ban is expected to significantly disrupt the US consumer drone industry, where foreign brands, particularly DJI, have dominated for years. It may also create opportunities for US-based drone manufacturers to expand, though analysts warn that replacing foreign supply chains could take time and raise costs for consumers.
