US Drone Ban Hits New DJI and Autel Drones. What to Do Now?

The U.S. government has effectively barred new imports and sales of foreign-made drones, including those from leading Chinese companies DJI and Autel. As you can probably guess, the officials say the move is designed to protect national security.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced the decision, which stops short of a full ban but prevents authorization of any new models or key components from overseas manufacturers. However, observers are calling this a US drone ban as no new foreign-made drones or critical parts can be introduced without explicit clearance from the Department of Defense (DoD) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

[Related Reading: DJI Drone Ban in the US: Not Yet But Coming IF Security Review Fails… Here’s All About the FAA Drone Regulation Update]

What Changes with the Foreign Drone Ban

While Americans can still fly drones they already own, and retailers can sell existing models, as I said, no new models will be available without DoD’s or DHS’s permission. This could have long-term effects on public safety operations and industrial use, and of course, recreational flying, photography and videography. DJI drones alone make up more than half of the U.S. commercial drone market. This raises questions about how a perceived DJI drone ban might disrupt photographers, videographers, and any other drone users.

[Related Reading: DJI Drone Ban 2025 Explained: A Complete Guide for Aerial Photographers]

FCC Cites Homeland Security Threats

In a press release, the FCC stated that drones can improve public safety and innovation, but also pose “new and serious threats” if misused by “criminals, hostile foreign actors, and terrorists.” The statement referenced major upcoming events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics as motivations for strengthening airspace security. The FCC frames the policy as part of a broader US drone ban effort to tighten safeguards.

The action stems from a December 2024 Congressional order requiring the FCC to place foreign drone manufacturers like DJI and Autel on its “Covered List” unless a security review cleared them. That review, completed just one day before the December 23 deadline, found that imported drones and components pose risks of “unauthorized surveillance, sensitive data exfiltration, supply chain vulnerabilities, and other potential threats to the homeland.” Supporters say this underlines why a targeted DJI drone ban is necessary to mitigate risk.

Former National Security Council official Sebastian Gorka called the decision essential. “Drones are a large part of America’s future security. They must be made in the USA,” he wrote on X.

Drones are a large part of America’s future security.

They must be made in the USA.

Another AMERICA First action from President @realDonaldTrump. @WhiteHouse https://t.co/sqICJuvD7t

— Sebastian Gorka DrG (@SebGorka) December 22, 2025

[Related Reading: DJI Drone Ban Update: FCC Votes 3-0 on New Powers That Could Block Imports]

DJI Responds: “Concerns Not Grounded in Evidence”

DJI, expectedly, expressed sharp criticism in its first response. “DJI is disappointed by the Federal Communications Commission’s action today,” a spokesperson said. “No information has been released regarding what information was used by the Executive Branch in reaching its determination.” The company argued that labeling the move a DJI drone ban mischaracterizes both its products and the available evidence.

The company accused U.S. authorities of protectionism under the guise of national security. “Concerns about DJI’s data security have not been grounded in evidence and instead reflect protectionism, contrary to the principles of an open market,” the spokesperson said.

DJI emphasized its track record of third-party and government reviews. “DJI products are among the safest and most secure on the market,” the statement read. “Today’s development will not affect customers who already own DJI products… These existing products can continue to be purchased and operated as usual.”

“The FCC’s fact sheet also indicates that new products may, in the future, be cleared for launch based on determinations made by the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security.”

“DJI remains committed to the U.S. market,” DJI spokesperson concluded. “We are deeply grateful to users across the country who spoke up to share how DJI technology supports their work and their communities. We will keep our community informed as more information becomes available.”

China Responds to Drone Ban

The Chinese government strongly condemned the move. Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China opposed the U.S.’s “overly broad interpretation of the concept of national security” and called for the policy to be reversed. The Commerce Ministry vowed to “take necessary measures” to defend Chinese firms, describing the US drone ban approach as harmful to global supply chains.

The FCC clarified that current consumer drone use is not affected. However, banning the authorization of drone parts closes a potential loophole: selling foreign parts individually and allowing users to assemble their own drones. Critics argue this effectively advances a partial DJI drone ban by restricting critical components.

Unclear Path for U.S. Alternatives

While the FCC says the policy will “unleash American drone dominance,” it remains uncertain whether domestic companies can match the affordability, performance, or availability of foreign-made drones.

DJI has long been the go-to provider for law enforcement, agriculture, firefighting, industrial inspections, and of course – photo and video work. Earlier this month, the company noted that more than 80% of state and local agencies in the U.S. use its products. “These programs will be at immediate risk,” DJI warned.

With security concerns clashing with commercial realities, the drone landscape in the U.S. is likely to face turbulent changes in the months ahead.

via DPReview, DroneDJ, DroneXL

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