FCC Proposes Blocking Imports of Swarming and Thermal-Imaging Drones from China

The FCC proposed rules on July 21, 2026, to block US imports of drones with swarming capabilities and infrared thermal-imaging sensors, naming Chinese manufacturers DJI and Autel Robotics. The FCC cited the need to "secure the drone supply chain" and prevent foreign access to sensitive data. Non-Chinese components are exempt through January 2028, giving manufacturers roughly 18 months to restructure supply chains.