DJI, renowned for its consumer drones, has initiated legal proceedings against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in response to its restrictive measures banning the import of new, foreign-made drones. This action has been effective since December 23, 2025. On Tuesday, DJI filed a petition with the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, aiming to challenge the FCC’s decision to list DJI on its Covered List. This list references equipment and services that allegedly pose unacceptable national security risks to the United States, as per the FCC’s assessment.
The Shenzhen-based company argues that the FCC’s actions are “careless” and unjustly impair its business operations. DJI’s petition, dated February 20, 2026, underscores its contention that the restrictions are unwarranted. It aims to seek judicial intervention to reverse the inclusion of its products on the potentially damaging Covered List.
This legal maneuver comes amid a broader context of escalating scrutiny over technological imports due to national security concerns. Such issues have been particularly pronounced regarding companies with roots in geopolitical hotspots. The FCC’s stance is reflective of a prevailing atmosphere of caution surrounding foreign technologies, yet DJI’s challenge raises questions about the balance between security and fair commercial practice. More details about DJI’s legal challenge and the FCC’s position can be found in the full complaint filed by DJI with the court, which outlines the detailed basis of their argument.
Ars Technica provides further insight into this unfolding legal confrontation, exploring the implications for both DJI and the wider consumer drone market.