The US Federal Communications Commission said on Monday it is barring imports of all new models of foreign-made drones and critical components including from China’s DJI and Autel, saying they pose unacceptable risks to US national security.

The addition to the FCC’s “Covered List” means that DJI, Autel and other foreign drone companies will not be able to obtain the necessary FCC approval to sell new models of drones or critical components in the US.

In December 2024 Congress had ordered DJI and Autel added to the list within one year unless a security review deemed it appropriate to continue sales.

The FCC said it received the results of a White House-convened, executive-branch interagency review, which found that imported drones and components pose security risks due to unauthorised surveillance, sensitive data exfiltration, and supply chain vulnerabilities.

The FCC designation does not prohibit import, sale or use of any existing device models previously authorised, and does not impact any previously purchased drones.

Consumers can continue to use the drones they legally bought earlier.

DJI said it was disappointed by the decision, adding that no information was released on what data was used to reach the determination.

The company previously said being added to the Covered List would effectively ban it from offering new drone models in the United States.

China condemned the move, with its foreign ministry opposing what it called an overly broad interpretation of national security and discriminatory practices.

China’s commerce ministry said it would take necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights of Chinese enterprises.

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at reducing the US reliance on Chinese drone companies.