FCC bans new DJI drones, citing national security concerns

FCC Bans New DJI Drones, Citing National Security Concerns

On December 23, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced a ban on the sale of new drones manufactured by DJI, a Chinese company that has become the world"s leading consumer drone manufacturer since its founding in 2006. This decision is rooted in national security concerns, as U.S. lawmakers and FCC officials have expressed apprehension regarding the potential surveillance risks associated with DJI"s dominance in the consumer drone market.

Key Details

DJI, which stands for Da-Jiang Innovations Science and Technology Co., Ltd., has rapidly ascended to the top of the drone industry, particularly in the United States. The company is known for producing high-quality, affordable drones that have gained popularity among various user groups, including hobbyists, real estate professionals, and public safety agencies such as police and fire departments.

As of 2020, DJI commanded a significant share of the American hobby drone market, holding approximately 77 percent. Furthermore, a study conducted by Bard College in the same year revealed that DJI drones represented about 90 percent of the drones utilized by public safety agencies within its database. This overwhelming market presence has raised alarms among U.S. officials, who argue that the widespread use of DJI drones could expose sensitive information to foreign surveillance, particularly given the company"s ties to China.

The FCC"s ruling means that U.S. consumers will no longer have access to new models of DJI drones, as well as other foreign-made drones, effectively limiting the options available in the consumer drone market. This ban follows years of increasing pressure from lawmakers and regulatory bodies concerned about the implications of allowing foreign entities, particularly Chinese firms, to control technology that may have military applications in the future.

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Background

The decision to ban DJI drones is part of a broader trend in U.S. policy aimed at addressing national security risks posed by foreign technology companies. The U.S. government has been scrutinizing various sectors for potential vulnerabilities, especially in the context of rising geopolitical tensions with China. The FCC"s action reflects ongoing concerns about data privacy and the potential for espionage through devices that are widely used across critical sectors.

DJI"s prominence in the drone market has not only made it a leader in consumer technology but has also placed it under the microscope of regulatory scrutiny. The company"s drones are equipped with advanced features that make them appealing for both recreational use and professional applications, yet these same features raise concerns about data collection and transmission capabilities that could be exploited by foreign governments.

What"s Next

The implications of the FCC"s ban on DJI drones are significant for both consumers and the drone industry at large. As the market adjusts to this new regulatory landscape, consumers may find themselves with fewer options for purchasing drones, potentially leading to increased prices and reduced competition. Additionally, the ban may prompt domestic drone manufacturers to fill the void left by DJI, potentially spurring innovation and investment in the U.S. drone sector.

As previously reported, the U.S. government has been increasingly vigilant about foreign technology firms, with similar situations arising in other sectors. For instance, there have been discussions surrounding the influence of foreign companies in telecommunications and data storage. The FCC"s decision to ban DJI drones is a continuation of this trend, highlighting the importance of national security in the face of rapidly advancing technology.

In conclusion, the FCC"s ban on new DJI drones underscores the complex interplay between technology, national security, and international relations. As the situation evolves, stakeholders in the drone market will need to navigate these challenges while ensuring that consumer safety and privacy remain a top priority.

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