US BANS SALE OF NEW “FOREIGN MADE” DRONES

The United States has moved to ban the sale of new foreign-made drones for most federal uses, according to initial information from government officials. The measure, announced by relevant U.S. agencies, targets unmanned aircraft systems manufactured by companies deemed to pose security or supply-chain risks. Existing fleets can continue operating under current rules, but new purchases and certain software updates will be restricted, based on official statements. The policy is expected to affect federal departments, contractors, and some grant-funded programs that rely on small commercial drones.

The decision follows several years of scrutiny over foreign drone manufacturers, particularly firms headquartered in countries identified by U.S. authorities as strategic competitors. Lawmakers and security agencies have raised concerns about data transmission, remote access, and potential vulnerabilities in navigation or imaging systems. In response, the U.S. has been encouraging the development and procurement of domestically produced or allied-sourced platforms. Industry groups and agencies have been transitioning to alternative suppliers, though foreign-made drones still represent a significant share of public safety and infrastructure inspection fleets.

Regulators are now working to clarify which models, components, and software configurations fall under the new restrictions, and how waivers or exceptions might operate. Agencies are reviewing inventories, contract terms, and mission requirements to determine timelines for compliance, according to official guidance. Technical teams are also assessing whether stored flight data and imagery from affected drones require additional safeguards or migration. For now, the ban on new acquisitions is in effect, while detailed implementation rules and enforcement mechanisms are still being finalized and communicated to stakeholders.