FCC Proposes Banning Imports of Previously Approved DJI Drones
The agency is seeking comment on retroactively applying national-security restrictions to already-authorized unmanned aircraft systems and surveillance equipment.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has initiated proceedings to retroactively prohibit the importation and marketing of certain foreign-made technology that, despite having prior authorization, is now on its "Covered List" of equipment deemed a national security risk. The proposed actions, detailed in public notices, specifically target unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and surveillance equipment from manufacturers including DJI and Autel Robotics. This follows the FCC's addition of these product categories to the list in December 2025.
For corporate counsel, this signals a significant expansion of the FCC's regulatory reach, moving from blocking new devices to targeting products already in the U.S. supply chain. It creates uncertainty for businesses that import, distribute, or use these technologies in sectors like construction, media, and agriculture. The action follows a similar "look-back" prohibition applied to equipment from Huawei and ZTE. Companies should monitor the proceedings, as a final determination could disrupt existing business models and require costly equipment replacement. Stakeholders can submit comments until late August and early September 2026.