U.S. Robotics Policy
FCC Drone and Robotics Restrictions Explained
The FCC Covered List affects equipment authorization for covered communications equipment. The December 2025 foreign-UAS action applied to new device models. Owners could keep using drones bought earlier, and retailers could keep selling models with existing authorizations. Later 2026 updates added defined foreign-produced advanced robotic devices, with stated exceptions and conditional approvals.
DEC 2025
Foreign-UAS Covered List action
It applied to new device models. Drones bought earlier kept flying.
[01]
The rule applies to new models
In December 2025, the FCC added foreign-produced UAS and critical components to its Covered List on a going-forward basis. The FCC said consumers could continue using previously acquired drones and retailers could continue selling models with existing authorizations. The restriction applied to new device models seeking equipment authorization.
The current Covered List includes category definitions, exceptions, and conditional-approval processes. Check the current list and the exact model before you buy.
[02]
Robotics policy is broadening
A July 2026 Covered List update added defined foreign-produced advanced robotic devices, except where a conditional approval is granted. Communications capability, the governing definition, authorization status, origin, and exceptions decide each case.
The same policy direction appears across administrations. The 2022 CHIPS and Science Act funded domestic semiconductor production and science programs. The current drone and robotics actions focus more directly on supply-chain and national-security risk.
[03]
Build a procurement record
Before buying a commercial cleaning system, record the manufacturer, model, serial, country of origin, FCC authorization, control links, critical components, software dependencies, and support path. Date the record and recheck it before expansion or replacement.
Strong products, resilient supply chains, and skilled operators build American robotics. A precise reading of the boundary protects your purchase.
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Choose a system you can put to work.
Procurement is a business decision as well as an equipment decision. SkyPSI combines the B2 flight kit with training and support, giving you a defined system to evaluate against your intended work.