(Washington, 23rd) — On Monday (December 22), the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) placed China’s DJI Innovations, Autel Robotics, and all foreign-manufactured drones and components on a “controlled list,” and will prohibit the approval of imports and sales of new drone models in the U.S.
According to Reuters, the FCC determined that these foreign companies pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security. Being placed on the controlled list means that DJI Innovations, Autel Robotics, and other foreign drone companies will not be able to obtain FCC approval, and therefore will not be able to sell new models of drones or critical components in the U.S.
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced in September that it plans to introduce relevant regulations to restrict imports of Chinese drones. The new measures announced on Monday mark a significant escalation in Washington’s crackdown on Chinese drone companies.
The FCC stated that imports, sales, and usage of existing drone models previously approved by American telecommunications regulators will not be affected, nor will drones purchased earlier. U.S. consumers can continue to use any drones they legally purchased previously.
DJI Innovations has not immediately responded to requests for comment. Previously, DJI said being placed on the controlled list by the U.S. effectively bans it from selling new models of drones in the country.
DJI Innovations is the world’s largest drone manufacturer, accounting for more than 50% of the U.S. commercial drone market share.
According to Reuters, the FCC determined that these foreign companies pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security. Being placed on the controlled list means that DJI Innovations, Autel Robotics, and other foreign drone companies will not be able to obtain FCC approval, and therefore will not be able to sell new models of drones or critical components in the U.S.
The FCC stated that imports, sales, and usage of existing drone models previously approved by American telecommunications regulators will not be affected, nor will drones purchased earlier. U.S. consumers can continue to use any drones they legally purchased previously.
DJI Innovations has not immediately responded to requests for comment. Previously, DJI said being placed on the controlled list by the U.S. effectively bans it from selling new models of drones in the country.
DJI Innovations is the world’s largest drone manufacturer, accounting for more than 50% of the U.S. commercial drone market share.