US Seeks to Secure Drone Supply Chains From Russian and Chinese Influence

The US Department of Commerce has put forward a proposal to protect drone technologies and supply chains from foreign interference, particularly from Russia and China. 

This was reported by Reuters, citing the US Department of Commerce's January 2 statement.

The notice urged private companies to provide feedback on the scope and impact of the proposed rule by March 4. The decision on whether to impose any restrictions on Chinese and Russian drones will ultimately be made by the Trump administration.

According to the news agency, China dominates US commercial drone sales, with the vast majority of drones on the market originating from there. 

In September, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo indicated that the department could implement restrictions similar to those that would essentially ban Chinese vehicles from the US. The focus will be on drones equipped with Chinese and Russian components, including chips and software. Raimondo also told Reuters in November that she hopes to finalize regulations regarding Chinese vehicles by January 20.

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the department stated that it was seeking public input “to inform the potential development of a rule to secure and safeguard the information and communication technology and services (ICTS) supply chain for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), or drones.”

The Bureau emphasized that foreign adversary involvement in UAS ICTS supply chains – including acute threats from China and Russia – may “offer our adversaries the ability to remotely access and manipulate these devices, exposing sensitive US data.”

On October 16, 2024, Representatives Brad Schneider and Joe Wilson, joined by 21 other members of Congress, sent a bipartisan letter calling on the Biden-Harris Administration to enhance efforts to block Russia from evading sanctions, reinforcing the US's commitment to support Ukraine and counter China’s influence.