02 January 2026

In a world where technology evolves at breakneck speed, the skies have become a battleground for innovation and regulation. The latest twist in this ongoing saga revolves around DJI, the renowned drone manufacturer, which has found itself in the crosshairs of U.S. national security concerns.

On December 23, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officially added DJI to its “covered list,” paving the way for a significant ban on the sale of new drones within America’s borders.

The announcement reverberated across the tech landscape, marking a tumultuous chapter for the Chinese-based company, which had dominated the consumer drone market with its cutting-edge technology and user-friendly designs. While this turn of events felt sudden to some, industry insiders recognized the warning signs that had pointed to such a predicament for quite some time. Over the past few years, escalating geopolitical tensions and growing scrutiny over data security had cast a long shadow over DJI’s operations.

Despite the ban, DJI’s loyal customer base found a glimmer of hope in the details of the ruling. The FCC clarified that previously purchased drones were exempt from this prohibition, allowing current users to continue utilizing their devices without interruption.

For the enthusiastic photographers and hobbyists across the country, this meant they could still capture breathtaking aerial views and unforgettable moments, even as new models were sidelined.

In the wake of these developments, DJI swiftly issued a heartfelt statement acknowledging its disappointment while reaffirming its dedication to American consumers:

“Thank you to everyone who has been following developments in the U.S. and speaking up. Your support means a lot. Today’s update from the FCC does not affect DJI products already in use in the U.S. Customers can continue to purchase and fly DJI drones as usual. The FCC also notes that new products may be cleared for launch in the future, based on determinations by the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security.

“Concerns about DJI’s data security are about protectionism, not evidence. DJI products remain among the safest and most secure on the market, backed by years of reviews by U.S. government agencies and independent third parties. While we are disappointed by this development, we remain committed to our U.S. customers and are actively exploring paths forward. We’ll keep you informed as more information becomes available. Thank you for standing with us.”

While the drone ban represented a formidable hurdle, DJI’s story is far from over. The company’s proactive approach hinted at a steadfast resolve to overcome adversity. It also illuminates the resilience of innovation against the backdrop of complex regulatory landscapes. The partnership between the company and its users continues, underpinned by a shared belief in the transformative power of flight—no matter the challenges that lay ahead.