Key facts
- Tariffs of up to 100% have been imposed on foreign-made drones and their components.
- Drones over 25kg or with thermal imaging capabilities face the highest tariff rate.
- Smaller, less sensitive drones will be subject to a 25% tariff.
- Reduced tariffs are offered to imports from several US allies, including the EU, UK, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, and Taiwan.
- The move is justified on national security grounds to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on China.
- Most tariffs are set to take effect on September 3, 2026.
President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation imposing new tariffs on imported unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and their components, with rates reaching up to 100%. This measure, effective September 3, 2026, for most items, aims to bolster domestic drone manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, particularly those linked to China.
The administration cited national security concerns, referencing a Department of Commerce investigation that highlighted the US's significant dependence on foreign-made drone technology and the associated security risks. Drones weighing more than 25 kilograms or equipped with sensitive technologies like thermal imaging will face the 100% tariff, as will certain critical components and docking stations. Smaller commercial and recreational drones without such features will be subject to a 25% tariff.
Imports from several US allies, including the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland, and Taiwan, will receive lower tariff rates of 15%. Qualifying imports from the United Kingdom will face a 10% tariff, provided their hardware and software are substantially sourced from the UK or US.
The tariffs are expected to increase pressure on Chinese manufacturers, which dominate the global drone market, including DJI. This action occurs amidst heightened trade tensions between the US and China. Some non-sensitive components may receive a six-month delay before tariffs are imposed.
Separately, the FCC is considering significant restrictions on common drone technologies such as thermal imaging and aerosol spraying.