Trump Administration Bans New Foreign Drone Models Over US National Security Concerns
Foreign Drones Ban: Citing national security concerns, a major ban has been imposed on foreign drones in the US. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has banned the distribution of all new foreign drone models, while older models will remain permitted for use.
The Trump administration has actually taken a big step towards technological security in this regard and tightened the screws on foreign drones. The reason behind this move is "national security concerns." The Federal Communications Commission has banned all new models of foreign drones in the US because of national security concerns. The effect of this ban is specifically on the famous Chinese drone manufacturer DJI. But to clarify, Americans are free to use old models of foreign drones that are already in use in the country. However, those who are using new models are in trouble. The FCC, in its fact sheet, stated that "criminals, foreign adversaries, and terrorists" might use drones to cause serious harm to US national security.
The agency has updated its "Covered List," a list of products deemed to pose an "unacceptable risk" to the country's national security. The list now includes all foreign-made UAS (unmanned aircraft systems) and their critical components.
Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr supported the policy on Monday. He said, "I welcome this national security decision by the Executive Branch. I am pleased that the FCC has now added foreign drones and related components to its Covered List. Following President Trump's lead, the FCC will work closely with American drone manufacturers to maintain 'American Drone Dominance.'"
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This new rule will affect many foreign companies, but it is a major blow to Chinese drone manufacturer DJI. DJI is currently considered the largest player in drone sales worldwide and in the United States. The company stated that it has not released any data on what information was used to reach this decision. DJI claimed that its products are the safest on the market and that it will continue to advocate for an open and competitive market for American consumers.
Donald Trump has consistently taken a tough stance against Chinese companies during his tenure. The foundation for this new drone ban was laid with an executive order passed in June. It aims to promote the production of American-made drones and protect the American drone supply chain from foreign control.
