Today, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) updated its Covered List to include certain foreign-produced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and UAS critical components on a going-forward basis.
There has been a significant amount of commentary circulating about this decision, some accurate, some misleading. To support our customers and partners, we want to clearly explain what this FCC action does and does not mean, based directly on the FCC’s published Fact Sheet.
The Most Important Takeaway
This FCC decision does NOT impact existing drones or current operations.
The FCC is explicit:
“Today’s decision does not impact a consumer’s ability to continue using drones they previously purchased or acquired.”
For Loveland Innovations customers, this means:
- Existing DJI drones can continue to be used
- Previously authorized DJI models can continue to be sold
- Current inspection, claims, roofing, and solar workflows are not disrupted
- NO grounding of drones
- NO loss of functionality
- NO requirement to replace existing fleets
This is not a retroactive ban and does not affect previously authorized devices.
Why the FCC Took This Action
The FCC’s update follows a national security determination made by an Executive Branch interagency body. That determination concluded that certain foreign-produced UAS and critical components pose unacceptable national security risks, including concerns related to:
- Unauthorized surveillance
- Sensitive data exfiltration
- Potential attacks or disruptions using UAS technology
- Long-term dependence on foreign drone supply chains
This action aligns with broader federal efforts to:
- Protect U.S. airspace
- Strengthen public safety
- Support the growth of a resilient U.S. drone industrial base
What Actually Changed
The FCC updated its Covered List, which is a list of communications equipment deemed to pose unacceptable risk to U.S. national security or public safety.
Under federal law, equipment placed on the Covered List:
- Cannot receive new FCC equipment authorization
- Cannot be newly imported, marketed, or sold in the U.S. without prior authorization
Importantly, the FCC can only make these updates at the direction of national security authorities; it cannot do so independently.
What Is Affected: New Device Models Only
The FCC makes it clear that the restrictions apply only to new device models going forward.
From the FCC:
“By operation of the FCC’s Covered List rules, the restrictions imposed by today’s decision apply to new device models.”
In practical terms:
- Future foreign-produced drone models may face additional regulatory hurdles
- Existing FCC-approved drone models are unaffected
- Any exemptions must be explicitly granted by the Department of Defense or the Department of Homeland Security
What This Means for Loveland Innovations Customers
Loveland Innovations customers can continue operating with confidence:
- There is no change to the use of currently authorized drones
- There is no interruption to data capture, inspections, or reporting
- There is no immediate operational impact to IMGING workflows
As always, Loveland Innovations remains committed to helping customers navigate regulatory changes with clarity and transparency. We actively monitor federal guidance and will continue to share updates if and when future changes affect operations or equipment availability.
Why There’s Been Confusion
Some early coverage suggested:
- A blanket DJI ban
- Immediate restrictions on use
- Forced fleet replacements
These claims are not supported by the FCC’s own documentation. Today’s action is forward-looking, not punitive, and does not change how previously authorized drones can be used.
Bottom Line
- Existing, previously authorized drones remain fully operational
- Customers can continue using their current equipment
- No immediate action is required
- Only future device models are impacted
For questions or concerns, Loveland Innovations customers are encouraged to reach out to their Customer Success Manager or Sales representative for clarification.
FCC Source
https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-416839A1.pdf
FCC Fact Sheet: FCC Updates Covered List to Include Foreign UAS and UAS Critical Components
Issued December 22, 2025
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