CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Federal regulators are moving to block new versions and replacement parts of certain foreign-made drones, a decision that could have long-term implications for law enforcement agencies and private operators across Iowa.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted to ban new and updated models of some foreign-manufactured drones from entering the U.S. market, including those made by DJI, a China-based company that is widely used by public safety agencies and commercial operators.
Officials stress the move does not ground drones currently in use. Agencies and businesses may continue flying the DJI drones they already own. The ban applies only to future models and certain parts, meaning the impact would come later, when equipment needs to be replaced or upgraded…