The US bans imports of foreign drones without approval from law enforcement agencies
The US Federal Communications Commission has imposed a ban on imports of new foreign-made drones without a recommendation from the Federal Communications Commission has imposed a ban on the import of new foreign-made drones into the country without a special recommendation from the Department of Defence or Department of Homeland Security. The decision came into force this week. This was reported by The Public with reference to The Verge.
Foreign drones and their components have been officially added to the FCC's Covered List of communications equipment deemed to pose unacceptable risks to US national security and public safety. The restrictions, in particular, include the products of the Chinese company DJI, which is the largest manufacturer of civilian drones in the world.
The FCC explained that it received an interagency national security opinion on 21 December. It states that foreign unmanned aerial systems can be used for long-term surveillance, data theft, or malicious operations in the United States. It also emphasises the risk of unauthorised remote access or disabling drones through software updates.
DJI said it was disappointed with the decision, while emphasising that the company was not singled out and that drones already imported and sold remain authorised for use. The company also assured that it has no intention of leaving the US market.
The FCC clarified that owners of foreign-made drones can continue to use them. In addition, certain models or components may be excluded from the Covered List if the Ministry of Defence or the Ministry of Internal Affairs recognise them as safe.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr noted that drones can improve public safety and promote innovation, but these benefits should not conflict with national security requirements.
