It was the day drone pilots hoped would never happen, but now it’s reality. The United States has banned future foreign-made drones, including those made by the world’s biggest supplier, DJI, which dominates the global civilian and enterprise market – selling between 70% and 90% of the world’s drones. The biggest market by country is the United States, but there’s no doubt we’ll feel the impact worldwide.
WHY IS THIS HAPPENING?
The USA is concerned about drones, especially those made in other countries. This ban is not about one company like DJI; it covers all non-US products and parts. US authorities have determined that foreign-made UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) and components pose “unacceptable risks to the national security of the United States and to the safety and security of U.S. persons,” and that’s why they are on the Covered List. The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) Covered List is a register of products and services from entities deemed to be a threat to America’s security.
ARE DRONES A THREAT?
Yes, but not all models.
The Trump administration is right to be concerned about unmanned aircraft systems. In the latest FCC factsheet, it was noted that President Trump stated in the Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty Executive Order, “unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), otherwise known as drones, offer the potential to greatly enhance public safety and innovation. At the same time, criminals, hostile foreign actors, and terrorists can use them to present new and serious threats to our homeland. As the United States prepares to host several mass-gathering events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, America250 celebrations, and the 2028 LA Summer Olympics, the federal government is taking additional actions to safeguard Americans and restore American airspace sovereignty.”
The use of modified consumer drones in the Ukraine war is a lesson for all countries, not just the United States. In battlefield situations, they have proven to be deadly, but there’s nothing to suggest current drones on sale from DJI and other manufacturers are a threat. In fact, the FCC stated, “today’s decision does not impact a consumer’s ability to continue using drones they previously purchased or acquired. Nor does today’s decision prevent retailers from continuing to sell, import, or market device models approved earlier this year or previously through the FCC’s equipment authorization process. By operation of the FCC’s Covered List rules, the restrictions imposed by today’s decision apply to new device models.”
Current drones being used for photography and enterprise are fine, as are the latest models sitting on shelves right now. But when it comes to any future drones, they won’t be allowed in the United States.
WHAT DOES THE BAN MEAN FOR AUSTRALIANS?
As the US is DJI’s biggest market, a ban there could affect DJI’s output globally – including Australia. The company would suffer a massive hit to its income. This could impact research and development, which has made drone use extremely safe around the world.
DJI may also reduce the amount of products and updates in the future, which will also harm businesses which rely on the Chinese-made drones. DJI is unmatched in terms of product quality and innovation. For people like me, DJI is much more than a drone company; it’s a production supply house.
Although it’s unlikely we’ll see a similar ban here, the Australian Defence Force is enhancing its sovereign uncrewed aerial system (UAS) capability with the acquisition of more than $1.5 million worth of Australian-manufactured drones. For the rest of us … it’s business as usual, but I would advise against taking your own drone to the US.
DJI has been fighting its impending ban for some time now, and it’s still hoping for exemptions down the track.
