FCC Targets Chinese Drones with Swarming and Thermal Tech in Proposed Import Ban

The FCC proposed rules on July 21, 2026, to block US imports of drones with swarming (coordinated multi-drone flight) and infrared thermal-imaging sensors, naming China's DJI and Autel Robotics. The agency cited supply-chain security and data-protection concerns. Non-Chinese components are exempt through January 2028, giving manufacturers roughly 18 months to restructure.