Trending 
The United States tentatively decided to ban imports of select foreign-produced military-grade drones, specifically targeting swarm-capable models and units equipped with advanced infrared capabilities.
The Federal Communications Commission announced the proposed rule on Tuesday to protect national security while extending existing import exemptions for non-Chinese commercial drones and components through January 2028.
Commission officials highlighted that swarm-enabled drones present acute operational threats because they can overwhelm traditional air defences and conduct persistent surveillance.
If finalised after a 30-day public comment period, the new ban will restrict fresh imports while permitting the federal government and current operators to continue using previously acquired gear.
The move marks another escalation in Washington’s ongoing technological crackdown on foreign competitors, particularly Chinese manufacturers like DJI, which controls over half of the US commercial market.
In response to recent import bans on new models, DJI filed a federal lawsuit challenging the regulator’s authority, even as US officials push to expand domestic spectrum allocations and bolster native drone manufacturing.
