Covered List Addition and National Security Determination
On December 22, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission announced an update to its Covered List to include foreign-produced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, and UAS critical component parts.
The action follows a specific determination received by the FCC from an Executive Branch interagency body convened by the White House. The interagency review concluded that foreign-produced UAS and critical components present unacceptable risks to the national security of the United States and to the safety and security of U.S. persons. The determination incorporates equipment and services specified in Section 1709 of the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act.
Under the determination, foreign UAS and components are placed on the Covered List unless the Department of War or the Department of Homeland Security issues a specific finding to the FCC that a given UAS, class of UAS, or critical component does not pose such risks.
Scope of Equipment Authorization Restrictions
The Covered List update applies on a going-forward basis to new device models seeking FCC equipment authorization. Under FCC rules, equipment on the Covered List is prohibited from receiving FCC equipment authorization, preventing new foreign models from being imported, marketed, or sold in the United States.
The decision does not apply retroactively to existing authorizations. Retailers and distributors may continue to import, market, and sell device models authorized by the FCC prior to this action or earlier in the year. Furthermore, consumers who have already purchased or acquired drones may continue to operate them lawfully without disruption.
- New foreign UAS models: Prohibited from receiving new FCC equipment authorizations, blocking import and sale.
- Previously authorized models: Retailers may continue to sell, market, and import models approved prior to this action.
- Existing consumer drones: Lawful operation of previously purchased or acquired drones remains unaffected.
Statutory Authority and Security Rationale
Under the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act, the Commission is required to maintain and update the Covered List based on determinations made by authorized national security agencies rather than through independent Commission findings.
National security agencies highlighted threats including potential use of foreign UAS for physical attacks, operational disruptions, unauthorized surveillance, and sensitive data exfiltration. The determination also cited the need to protect the domestic industrial base and safeguard airspace sovereignty ahead of major mass-gathering events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, America250 celebrations, and the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics.
- Concerns include attacks, disruptions, unauthorized surveillance, and sensitive data exfiltration.
- Reliance on foreign-made UAS was determined to undermine the U.S. drone industrial base.
- The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency encourages organizations to reference the Covered List for risk management analysis and regulatory compliance.