The U.S. Department of Commerce has introduced a proposed rule titled "Securing the Information and Communications Technology and Services Supply Chain: Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)." While the intent is to address national security risks, this sweeping regulation threatens to burden the drone industry, disrupt innovation, and create significant challenges for UAS manufacturers, service providers, and OEMs.
The proposed rule, published on January 3, 2025, takes a broad approach to regulating unmanned aircraft systems. It includes not just drones but also related components such as ground control stations, communication links, and other ICTS (Information and Communications Technology and Services) elements. While national security concerns are legitimate, this proposal risks overreach, ambiguity, and economic harm.
Why the Proposed UAS Rule Could Harm the Drone Industry
Overreach The proposed rule aims to regulate every aspect of the UAS supply chain, including data collection and connectivity functions. This broad scope unnecessarily complicates compliance, impacting companies across the UAS ecosystem—from manufacturers to software developers.
Ambiguity The language in the rule around "foreign adversary" and "linked to" entities is vague. It could unjustly target businesses with global supply chains, even when those entities pose no credible security risk. This creates uncertainty for U.S. companies and their partners.
Economic Impact Restricting access to key components and imposing burdensome compliance measures will increase costs, making U.S. companies less competitive in the global drone market. The ripple effect could harm industries reliant on drones, including agriculture, energy, construction, and logistics.
What You Can Do
This proposed rule is currently open for public comment until March 4, 2025. Here’s how you can help:
Submit a Comment Share your concerns and highlight how these regulations could harm innovation and competitiveness. Submit your comments directly at:http://www.regulations.gov/commenton/BIS-2024-0058-0001
Read the Proposal Familiarize yourself with the details of the proposed rule to better understand its implications:https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/03/2024-30209/securing-the-information-and-communications-technology-and-services-supply-chain-unmanned-aircraft
Review Other Comments See what others have said and build on their insights to craft a stronger argument against the proposed rule:https://www.regulations.gov/document/BIS-2024-0058-0001/comment
Key Concerns with the Rule
Regulatory Overreach: The inclusion of every component of the UAS supply chain—including software and hardware—could create compliance nightmares for businesses.
Vagueness Around Supply Chains: The proposed rule lacks clarity on what constitutes being “linked to” a foreign adversary, potentially impacting businesses at home as well as overseas without just cause.
Increased Costs: Compliance requirements could significantly raise costs for companies, reducing their ability to compete in the global market.
Why Your Voice Matters
The drone industry is a cornerstone of technological innovation, contributing to advancements in agriculture, energy, logistics, and more. Heavy-handed regulations like this could jeopardize that progress. By voicing your concerns, you can help ensure that any regulatory measures are balanced, fair, and effective without stifling growth in the UAS sector.
Join the Movement
Protecting innovation and ensuring U.S. competitiveness starts with informed and engaged stakeholders. Submit your comments today and make your voice heard. Together, we can advocate for a regulatory approach that addresses security concerns without compromising the future of the UAS industry.
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