FCC Grounds Foreign Drones: A National Security Comedy of Errors
The FCC has decided that foreign-made drones are about as welcome as a raccoon at a picnic, banning them due to national security concerns. Just in time for the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, the focus shifts to safeguarding the skies and keeping foreign-made drones grounded.
Hot Take:
***The FCC has decided that foreign-made drones are less “fly high and mighty” and more “spy high and mighty.” So if you were planning to get a drone for that cool aerial footage of your backyard barbecue, you might want to check if it’s “Made in the USA” first. Who knew that our skies would become the next battleground of international espionage?***
Key Points:
– The FCC has banned drones and critical components made in foreign countries due to national security concerns.
– This decision follows a review by an Executive Branch interagency body with national security expertise.
– Foreign-made drones, like those from DJI and Autel, are now on the FCC’s Covered List.
– Existing drones and previously approved models are unaffected; the ban applies to new models.
– The U.S. aims to boost domestic drone production and maintain airspace security ahead of major events like the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics.