The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) banned the sale of new models of foreign-made drones this week, citing national security concerns as drones increasingly become weapons of war and China reportedly controls 90 percent of the global drone market.
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“Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), also known as drones, offer the potential to enhance public safety as well as cement America’s leadership in global innovation. But criminals, terrorists, and hostile foreign actors have intensified their weaponization of these technologies, creating new and serious threats to our homeland,” said FCC Chairman Brendan Carr on Monday.
“President Trump has been clear that his Administration will act to secure our airspace and unleash American drone dominance,” he added.
The decision places foreign-produced drones and critical drone components on the FCC’s covered list, which prevents new models from being authorized for sale by the FCC unless the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requests an exception for a specific product.
The FCC added drones to its list following an executive branch national security determination that came as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to ensure the sovereignty of U.S. airspace.
Carr pointed to the need for additional measures to prevent terrorist activities as the U.S. prepares to host several high-profile events, including the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2028 Summer Olympics, and celebrations for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The decision will not prevent the use or sale of drones and components already in the U.S. and will continue to allow the importation of drones previously approved for sale by the FCC.
Drones have increasingly emerged as essential weapons of war in recent years in both the Russia-Ukraine war and the brief conflict between Israel and Iran.
Earlier this year, Ukraine was able to smuggle drones into Russia and use them to destroy strategic, nuclear-capable bombers.
Foreign adversary-produced drones already present in the U.S. could theoretically pose significant national security risks if they are used for intelligence gathering or as weapons.
Though the FCC’s decision covers all foreign nations and does not explicitly mention the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), China reportedly controls a staggering 90 percent of the world’s drone market.
