The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has updated its Covered List to include foreign-made unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and their critical components, following a national security determination by an Executive Branch interagency body. The decision, announced on December 22, 2025, targets new models and key parts of drones produced abroad, impacting industries such as agriculture that have relied heavily on imported platforms.
The FCC’s Covered List identifies communications equipment and services considered a risk to U.S. national security or the safety of individuals in the country. Equipment placed on this list is generally barred from receiving new FCC equipment authorizations. Without such authorization, many wireless-enabled products cannot be legally imported, marketed, or sold in the United States.
According to the recent FCC Public Notice and related documents, both complete foreign-produced UAS and “UAS critical components”—including data transmission devices, communications systems, flight controllers, ground control stations/controllers, navigation systems, batteries/smart batteries, and motors—are now covered by these restrictions. There is an exception: items may be excluded if the Department of War or Department of Homeland Security determines they do not pose security risks. However, there is currently no public process for companies to request such determinations.
The FCC has clarified that these changes do not affect drones already purchased or acquired by consumers. Retailers can continue selling and importing device models previously approved through the FCC’s authorization process without restriction. The new rules apply only to future device models.
The change could lead to short-term challenges in product availability and pricing as manufacturers adjust to the new requirements—especially for agricultural operators who depend on imported drone technology for spraying crops or mapping fields.
Growers are advised that while their current drones remain operational under existing approvals, obtaining new foreign-made drones or replacement parts could become more difficult moving forward if those products fall within restricted categories. This may lead to longer wait times for parts like smart batteries and motors as inventories tighten.
Recommendations for drone users include keeping detailed records of current equipment and critical parts; planning ahead when considering purchases in 2026; directly confirming with vendors whether products are FCC-authorized; building redundancy into operations where possible; carefully evaluating performance when changing hardware; and considering domestically produced options for future needs.
While disruptive for some market segments—particularly those reliant on imports—the policy does not immediately ground existing fleets but shifts focus toward secure supply chains for future procurement cycles. The move may also benefit domestic manufacturers able to offer compliant alternatives with predictable regulatory status.
