Nigeria TV Info — INTERNATIONAL / TECHNOLOGY & SECURITY

US FCC Adds Chinese Drone Makers DJI, Autel to Security ‘Covered List’

The United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has added China’s leading drone manufacturers—DJI and Autel—along with all foreign-made drones and related components, to its “Covered List,” citing what it described as unacceptable risks to US national security.

The decision, announced on Monday, effectively blocks the affected companies from receiving regulatory approvals for new drone models or critical components intended for sale or import into the United States.

However, the FCC clarified that drones and components that were previously authorised remain legal for use in the country, and their importation or sale will not be affected by the new designation.

Reacting to the development, DJI, the world’s largest drone maker, expressed disappointment, noting that it was not specifically singled out and that no supporting information from the US executive branch had been made public. The company warned that the decision would, in practice, amount to a ban on the sale of new drones in the US—one of its key markets, where it reportedly accounts for more than half of commercial drone usage.

China has also criticised the move. Speaking on Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing opposed what it called the US government’s “overly broad interpretation of national security” and the creation of “discriminatory” lists targeting Chinese firms. He urged Washington to reverse the decision and ensure a fair and open business environment for Chinese companies.

The FCC’s action adds to growing tensions between the US and China over technology, data security, and market access, particularly in sensitive sectors such as telecommunications, artificial intelligence, and unmanned aerial systems.