The United States has officially banned the sale of foreign-made drones and their critical components, a move that turns long-standing speculation about DJI into reality and reshapes the country’s consumer drone market.
The ban, announced by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), does not target DJI alone. Instead, it applies broadly to all drones and essential drone components manufactured outside the United States.
While DJI is the most affected brand due to its dominance in the consumer drone market, the decision impacts all foreign drone makers seeking to sell new models in the US.
According to the FCC, multiple US security agencies have concluded that drones and critical components produced in foreign countries pose an “unacceptable risk” to national security.
These findings prompted regulators to block authorization for new foreign-made drone models, effectively cutting off their entry into the US market.
What ban does
The restrictions apply only to new sales and upcoming drone models. Consumers who already own foreign-made drones can continue using them without restrictions.
Retailers are also allowed to sell existing stock of models that have already received FCC approval. The ban applies strictly to future approvals, not previously authorized products.
Possible exceptions
The policy leaves room for flexibility. In the future, the Department of War or the Department of Homeland Security may grant approval to specific new drone models on a case-by-case basis.
This means certain foreign-made drones could still enter the US market if they meet security requirements set by federal authorities.
DJI strongly rejected the security concerns raised by US authorities. The company said its products are “among the safest and most secure on the market.”
In a statement, DJI noted that its drones have undergone years of reviews by US government agencies and independent third parties. It argued that claims about data security lack evidence and reflect protectionist policies rather than genuine security threats.
