US Considers Ban on Foreign Military Drone Imports

Washington (ANTARA) - The United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has sought input from various parties regarding a possible ban on the import or sale of foreign-made military drones.

On Tuesday (21 July), the FCC announced measures to strengthen the security of the drone industry’s supply chain.

“The Commission has issued a Public Notice seeking comment on whether the importation or sale for non-US government use of foreign-manufactured military-class drones included on the Covered List should be prohibited, including swarming drones and drones equipped with infrared technology,” the FCC said in a statement.

Specifically, the commission is requesting information on the number of devices that have been imported and are ready for marketing, as well as the number of models currently in transit or awaiting shipment.

The FCC is also asking for the number of drones already covered by distribution, marketing or sales agreements but which have not yet entered the supply chain.

According to the FCC notice, the proposed ban would not apply to unmanned aircraft systems and their key components that are manufactured domestically.

In addition, exemptions would also be granted for the import or sale of unmanned systems intended for use by the US federal government, as well as those imported or sold for commercial testing and product development purposes.