US Considers Ban on Imports of Foreign Military Drones

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

The FCC on Tuesday, July 21, announced measures to strengthen the security of the drone industry supply chain.

"The Commission has issued a Public Notice requesting comments on whether the import or sale for non-US government use of foreign-made military-grade drones that are on the Covered List should be prohibited, including swarming drones and drones equipped with infrared technology," the FCC said in a statement. reported by ANTARA from Sputnik, Wednesday, July 22.

In particular, the commission requested information on the number of devices that have been imported and are ready to be marketed, the number of models that are currently in transit or awaiting shipment.

The FCC also asked for the number of drones that have been covered by distribution, marketing, or sales agreements but have not entered the supply chain.

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

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