The Trump administration's Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has banned all new foreign-made drone models from distribution in the United States, citing national security concerns. The ban, which took effect on Monday, prohibits the sale and importation of new drones manufactured abroad, with the exception of those already owned by American consumers. The FCC claims that foreign-made drones pose an unacceptable risk to national security, as they could potentially be used by criminals, hostile foreign actors, and terrorists to present new and serious threats to the country.

According to a fact sheet published by the FCC, the agency has updated its Covered List, which includes products deemed to pose an unacceptable risk to national security. The list now includes all Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and UAS critical components produced abroad. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr welcomed the policy, stating, "I welcome this Executive Branch national security determination, and I am pleased that the FCC has now added foreign drones and related components, which pose an unacceptable national security risk, to the FCC's Covered List." Carr added that the FCC would work closely with U.S. drone makers to "unleash American drone dominance," following President Trump's leadership.

The ban on foreign-made drones is the latest move by the Trump administration to restrict the sale and use of certain technologies in the United States. The decision has been met with mixed reactions from industry experts and consumers. Some have expressed concerns about the potential impact on the drone industry, while others have welcomed the move as a necessary step to protect national security.

The use of drones has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many countries around the world adopting the technology for various purposes, including military, commercial, and recreational use. However, the rise of drone technology has also raised concerns about national security, as well as issues related to privacy and safety.

Industry experts have pointed out that the ban on foreign-made drones may have unintended consequences, such as driving consumers to purchase drones from the black market or from unauthorized sellers. "This ban may not be effective in addressing the national security concerns, as it may simply drive the market underground," said a spokesperson for the Drone Manufacturers Association.

The ban on foreign-made drones is set to have a significant impact on the drone industry, particularly on companies like DJI, which has been a leading manufacturer of drones in the United States. DJI has already announced that it will no longer sell new drones in the United States, citing the ban as the reason. The company has not yet announced plans to cease operations in the country, but it is likely that the ban will have a significant impact on its business.

The FCC has stated that Americans who already own older foreign drone models will still be able to use those products, but the ban on new imports is expected to have a significant impact on the industry. The agency has not yet announced plans to enforce the ban, but it is likely that consumers and businesses will be required to comply with the new regulations in the coming months.