In early 2025, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) seeking public input on potential regulations to secure the nation’s drone supply chain. This initiative aims to address national security concerns associated with unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) developed or supplied by foreign adversaries, particularly China and Russia. www.hoganlovells.com+4bis.gov+4DroneDJ+4DRONELIFE+1www.hoganlovells.com+1
Key Aspects of the Proposed Regulations
The ANPRM, released on January 3, 2025, invites stakeholders to comment on various aspects, including:www.hoganlovells.com
- Definitions of UAS and related components.www.hoganlovells.com
- Assessment of risks to U.S. national security posed by certain ICTS transactions integral to UAS.meritalk.com+6www.hoganlovells.com+6DIGITIMES Asia+6
- Evaluation of foreign adversary risks, data collection, and remote access capabilities of UAS.www.hoganlovells.com+1bis.gov+1
- Economic impact of potential regulations and possible mitigation measures.www.hoganlovells.com
The public comment period is open until March 4, 2025. DroneDJ
Implications for U.S. Industries
Chinese-made drones, particularly those from DJI, dominate the U.S. market due to their affordability and advanced features. They are extensively used in sectors such as agriculture, public safety, construction, and filmmaking. A potential ban or restriction could disrupt operations in these industries, leading to increased costs and operational challenges.
While domestic alternatives exist, they often come with higher costs and may not match the capabilities of their Chinese counterparts. For instance, U.S.-made drones on the Blue UAS Cleared List can range from $30,000 to $50,000 per unit, compared to DJI’s models priced around $7,299. AOPA
Steps for Businesses
Given the potential regulatory changes, U.S. businesses and drone operators should consider the following actions:
- Stay Informed: Monitor developments related to the proposed regulations and participate in the public comment process to voice concerns or support.
- Assess Alternatives: Evaluate domestic drone options that meet operational needs, keeping in mind potential cost and capability differences.
- Plan for Transition: Develop contingency plans to mitigate potential disruptions if restrictions on foreign-made drones are implemented.
The federal government’s move to seek public input on foreign drone regulations underscores the importance of securing the nation’s drone supply chain. Businesses relying on UAS technology should proactively engage in the regulatory process and prepare for potential changes to ensure continuity in their operations.DIGITIMES AsiaDRONELIFE+2Data Matters Privacy Blog+2www.hoganlovells.com