Chinese tech giant DJI could soon find itself in a pickle regarding its operations in the US if the latest proposed sanctions by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) come into effect. The committee is reportedly looking to adopt a solid national security measure to restrict any unsolicited links to the outside world established by Chinese-made telecom gear, which could spell trouble for DJI, while also turning the heat on drone ownership in the US.
New FCC ruling might affect US drone ownership
The FCC has recently voted unanimously (3-0) to grant itself the authority to retroactively ban electronic devices if they or their manufacturers are deemed a security risk.
As reported by The Verge, the ruling also applies to devices that have already received approval for their sale. The law in question is the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act, as well as the provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act (FY 2025) (NDAA), which state that a national security agency needs to conduct a thorough review of selected foreign-linked companies, including DJI, by December 23 to determine which products or organizations require correction.
As such, the FCC can now prohibit DJI and similar companies from importing any new drones or wireless products. The independent government agency is currently holding discussions to move DJI to the “Covered List,” which would restrict the Guangdong-based organization from importing products that have a radio transmitter without the appropriate clearance.
In response, Adam Welsh, the Head of Global Policy at DJI, has stated that the company is ready “to take part in a transparent, timely, and fair audit through official channels.”
While the said update could severely affect DJI’s sales and drone ownership in the US, it does not impact already existing drones and their ownership in the country. Moreover, the FCC has yet to enforce the embargo or officially add DJI to the ‘Covered List.’ The final verdict would depend upon the still-pending national safety review, the deadline for which is still two months away.
Originally reported by Apoorv Rastogi on Mandatory.
