WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Communications Commission has updated its national security “Covered List” to include uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, and critical drone components that are produced in foreign countries.

The update follows a national security determination by an Executive Branch interagency body, which concluded that foreign-produced drones and key components pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security and the safety of U.S. persons. Federal officials cited concerns that such equipment could enable unauthorized surveillance, sensitive data collection, or other harmful activities, particularly near critical infrastructure and large public events .

As a result, new foreign-made drones and covered components will no longer be eligible for FCC equipment authorization, a requirement for most wireless devices to be imported, marketed, or sold in the United States. The restriction applies on a going-forward basis and does not retroactively affect previously authorized equipment.

The FCC emphasized that the decision does not impact drones already approved or purchased. Consumers may continue using drones they already own, and retailers may continue selling models that received FCC authorization before the update .

The update also incorporates certain communications and video surveillance equipment and services identified in Section 1709 of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act.

According to the FCC, the action is intended to protect U.S. airspace, address supply-chain security concerns, and strengthen domestic drone manufacturing capacity.