Overview
The US is considering a potential ban on DJI and other Chinese drone manufacturers, with a critical deadline of December 23, 2025, for a national security audit. This legislation could significantly impact recreational, commercial, and professional drone users, as well as related industries.
Timeline and Legislation
- The FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) section 1709 mandates a national security audit of DJI by December 23, 2025.
- If the audit is not completed by the deadline, DJI and others may be added to the FCC's "covered list," effectively banning the sale, import, or operation of new DJI products in the US.
- The NDAA section 1709 also applies to other Chinese drone manufacturers, not just DJI.
- The official countdown toward a possible DJI ban began on December 24, 2024, when the NDAA was enacted.
DJI's Strategic Response
- DJI did not prominently showcase drones at the 2025 NAB show, instead highlighting gimbals, editing tools, and power solutions.
- DJI has begun contributing technology, such as the Avanox drive system, to products like electric bikes, expanding its US presence in other sectors.
- Dealers reported strong demand for DJI-powered e-bikes, despite limited stock.
Rationale for Targeting DJI
- Lawmakers are concerned about potential ties between DJI and the Chinese government via state-run investment groups.
- The lack of public trading allows DJI to conceal investor information.
- Long-standing security concerns exist over the possibility of DJI sharing sensitive data with the Chinese government.
Recent US Executive Actions
- In June 2025, executive orders were signed to boost the US drone industry and support manufacturing domestically.
- A new focus is placed on enabling beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations, regulated by the FAA.
- The FAA is tasked with restoring US airspace sovereignty and setting up a counter-drone task force.
Department of Commerce Investigation
- In July 2025, a section 232 investigation into drone imports was launched, emphasizing national security risks.
- The Bureau of Industry and Security will assess US reliance on foreign drones, risks of surveillance/interference, and the economic impact of foreign market dominance.
Impact on Stakeholders
- Federal agencies and contractors are already prohibited from using DJI drones.
- A wider ban could affect sectors like agriculture, civil engineering, and transportation, all of which rely heavily on advanced DJI drones.
- In 2023, drones sprayed 3.7 million acres across 41 states, underlining their crucial role in US infrastructure and agriculture.
Decisions
- Potential ban if security audit not completed by December 23, 2025.
- Launch of section 232 investigation into foreign drone imports.
Action Items
- December 23, 2025 – US National Security Agency: Complete formal security review of DJI and other covered drone manufacturers.
- TBD – Bureau of Industry and Security: Analyze and report on national security risks from foreign drones.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- What will be the specific outcome of the security audit for DJI and other Chinese manufacturers?
- How will the industry transition if a ban is enacted before US alternatives are technologically competitive?
- What exemptions or phased approaches might be considered for critical sectors like agriculture?