The Truth (and Misinformation) About the Possible DJI Ban

The Truth (and Misinformation) About the Possible DJI Ban

Rumors and speculation spread fast. This page is meant to separate fact from fiction regarding the talk of a “DJI ban”—especially for those of us in drone-based recovery operations.

Watch the video below to learn more. 

What’s the Deal with the “DJI Ban”?

Late in 2024, Congress passed Section 1709 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2025. This clause mandates that by December 23, 2025, a U.S. national security agency must decide whether communications or video surveillance equipment from certain entities—including DJI—pose an “unacceptable risk.”

If they conclude there is a risk, or fail to decide in time, the FCC would be required to add those companies’ gear to a “covered list.” That would block new FCC certifications for equipment from DJI (or other implicated firms).

But here’s the key: the law would not ban or disable existing, already-certified DJI gear.

What the Law Would Actually Do — vs. What It Wouldn’t

What the Ban Would do:

• Prevent new DJI models or uncertified equipment from getting FCC approval.

• Limit DJI’s ability to roll out future technology in the U.S. under current regulatory frameworks.

Would NOT do:

• Stop import or sale of DJI products already certified before the rule takes effect.

• Make existing DJI drones illegal to fly, sell, or own.

• “Brick” or disable devices remotely just because they're DJI.

This is consistent with precedents involving other Chinese tech firms (e.g. Huawei, ZTE, Hikvision) that were added to regulatory “covered lists.” Their prior, certified hardware remained legal to use; only new authorizations were blocked.

Why Everyone’s Talking About It

This proposed restriction has sparked a lot of noise—some of it factual, some of it fear mongering. Below are several themes and how they stack up:

DJI’s Position & Countermeasures

DJI has consistently pushed back against claims of national security threats. Their main talking points:

• No credible evidence has been shown that DJI transmits user data to the Chinese government.

• They offer Local Data Mode and other safeguards that disable internet connectivity and data transmission on demand.

• They’ve invited independent audits and reviews of their systems to prove transparency.

• DJI claims that much of the pressure comes from U.S. competitors trying to reduce DJI’s dominance.

What Happens If Nothing Changes by December 2025?

If no agency completes its evaluation by the deadline, the FCC is mandated to add DJI to the covered list automatically. That means no new DJI models could be certified for U.S. sale. But again, this does not disrupt existing, certified DJI drones already in operation.

From a recovery business perspective: your DJI fleet (if it’s already compliant) should not be disrupted—though long-term upgrades or replacements might become limited or more complex.

What About Parts, Stock, and Support?

One of the biggest misunderstandings is that parts shortages are evidence of the ban. In fact:

• DJI voluntarily paused direct U.S. sales in July 2025 during regulatory discussions.

• As a result, some U.S. distributors had to rely on alternate, international channels temporarily.

• New supply lines are being established, and many parts for models already in service are returning to stock.

• Warranty support and service channels remain operational for current DJI gear.

So if your drone is already in service, you should still be able to get parts, repairs, and support—though it’s wise to plan ahead and stock up where possible.

What This Means for Drone Deer Recovery Operators

If you're running a recovery business using DJI drones (like the Matrice 4T or similar models):

• Your existing, certified equipment remains valid and usable.

• You won’t lose operational access due to the NDAA clause alone.

• But if DJI is added to the covered list, introducing new DJI drones or models after that point may become more complicated or prohibited in the U.S.

• You should begin contingency planning: stock critical spare parts, explore alternative hardware paths, and stay informed on the investigation’s progress.

FAQ

Is the DJI ban active now?
No — no ban is in effect as of today.

Will my existing DJI drone become illegal?
No — drones already certified remain legal to fly, own, and operate.

Can DJI disable my drone via a software update?
There’s no legal support for that in the NDAA text. Claims that DJI will “brick” gear are speculative.

Why are parts harder to find right now?
DJI paused direct U.S. distribution, not because of any ban. Supply chains are being rebuilt.

Will DJI stop honoring warranties?
For enterprise Drones, DJI has paused, offering DJI care in the USA, which means that enterprise Drone owners need to find a certified Drone repair center to conduct drone repairs. 

Can I legally import DJI drones today?
Yes — existing certified models remain legal to import and sell. The restrictions only apply to future certifications.

Are American-made alternatives better?
They may be appealing for political or security reasons, but they often come at higher cost or with lower performance; always evaluate trade-offs.

How should I prepare for future changes?
Stock essential parts now. Stay in touch with your service provider. Monitor the progress of government reviews. Explore backup drone platforms just in case.