On Monday, December 22, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released DA 25-1086, stating the addition of all uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and UAS components produced by foreign entities onto the list of items banned for posing an “unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States or the security and safety of United States persons.” This concerning news reached AMA and other airspace stakeholders quickly after its release.
It appears that this prohibition does not affect existing UAS or UAS components that have already been authorized prior to December 21 or outlaw their use. It should also not affect models that have already received FAA authorization. However, because virtually all model components are manufactured abroad, this security restriction would have huge implications for both the hobbyist and commercial airspace industries moving forward.
It should be noted that this determination was made on December 21 and released to the public on December 22, leaving airspace industry stakeholders without any warning. AMA had previously submitted public comments in early March to the Bureau of Industry and Security that were related to this topic, giving multiple recommendations to ease restrictions on the hobbyist community.
However, the FCC and the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHSB) have made this determination through pre-existing mechanics in the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, side-stepping the typical public comment period and advanced notice that stakeholders would usually receive.
AMA has already began engaging with the FCC and congressional offices to address this issue, alongside other industry stakeholders who have fought against broad component bans and advocated for definition changes to the generic use of “UAS” to give relief to recreational modelers from similar security enforcements and regulations. We expect that the timing of this release was intentional because all congressional offices are closed for the holidays, and many federal agency employees are taking time off.
The document indicates a possible pathway for exemption or other authorized relief, but no major updates will be expected until the new year. AMA will keep members updated on all developments about this topic as we gain new information.
To remain current with the most recent government-related news, regularly visit the AMA Government Affairs blog. If you have any further questions or concerns, contact the Government Affairs department at (765) 287-1256, or amagov@modelaircraft.org.