DJI sues the FCC for “carelessly” restricting its drones
Ars Technica
by
Scharon Harding
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
DJI, a leading manufacturer of consumer drones, has filed a legal challenge against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) over its import ban on foreign-made drones. The ban, which took effect on December 23, 2025, restricts the sale and distribution of new drones from non-U.S. companies, including DJI, citing national security concerns. In a petition submitted to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in February 2026, DJI argues that the FCC’s decision has caused significant harm to its business and unfairly targets the company without proper justification.
The FCC’s Covered List, which designates products deemed to pose an unacceptable risk to national security or the safety of U.S. persons, now includes DJI. The list typically applies to communications equipment, but the FCC expanded its scope to include drones, claiming potential vulnerabilities in their technology could be exploited for malicious purposes. DJI disputes this characterization, asserting that it has always adhered to rigorous safety and security standards and that there is no evidence of wrongdoing on its part. The company claims the FCC’s ruling was made without proper procedural safeguards and lacks transparency.
This legal battle highlights a broader tension between national security concerns and the global tech industry. DJI argues that the ban unfairly targets it while failing to address systemic risks comprehensively. If successful, the case could set a precedent for how regulators balance security with innovation in the tech sector. For readers interested in technology, this dispute underscores the challenges faced by international companies operating in the U.S., particularly in industries tied to national security. It also raises questions about the future of drone technology and its role in global markets.
Verticals
techscience
Originally published on Ars Technica on 2/24/2026