US targets China in move to ban military-grade drone imports
The US Federal Communications Commission has proposed a ban on importing advanced Chinese drones equipped with swarm capabilities and thermal imaging. This move aims to mitigate national security risks and protect the domestic supply chain from foreign surveillance technology.
Why it matters
This escalation in US-China trade tensions highlights the growing concern over foreign-made surveillance hardware in critical infrastructure and national security sectors.
Proposed rules would have US regulator block the entry of swarm-capable drones, mainly from China.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info US President Donald Trump greets Chinese President Xi Jinping on May 14, 2026, in Beijing [Kenny Holston/Reuters] By Al Jazeera Staff and Reuters Published On 22 Jul 2026 22 Jul 2026 The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has moved to prohibit imports of advanced drones, mainly from China, citing mounting national security concerns over military-grade technology.
Under the proposed rules announced on Tuesday, the US regulator will block the entry of drones equipped with swarming capabilities and infrared sensors for high-resolution thermal imaging.
Meanwhile, exemptions for components produced outside China, introduced in December, have been extended until January 2028, suggesting a focus on isolating Chinese manufacturers, such as DJI and Autel Robotics.
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