Drone Security and Competitiveness: October 14, 2025

This is a preview of AUVSI’s biweekly briefing on cybersecurity, supply chain, and technology policy developments shaping the future of the global drone industry.

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FCC Eyes Broader Ban on Foreign-Made Tech

What’s new: DroneLife reports the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plans to vote on rules that would close regulatory loopholes by restricting the import, sale, or marketing of previously authorized devices and components from companies on its “Covered List,” such as Huawei and Hikvision. 

Why it matters: The proposal would expand the FCC’s authority to act on security concerns tied to foreign-made equipment. While DJI is not currently listed, DroneLife notes the timing overlaps with FY25 NDAA language directing the FCC to review DJI for potential inclusion.  

The details: 

• The FCC proposal aims to extend restrictions to targeted component parts embedded in other products. 
• If later applied to DJI, DroneLife reports this could affect existing drone models, not just future releases. 
• The FCC vote is expected later this month, pending delays from the current government shutdown. 

Read more here.

Drone Defenses at the World Cup

POLITICO reports that the White House is preparing to allocate $500 million toward anti-drone defenses ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The funding is meant to help state and local authorities deploy detection and mitigation systems in stadiums and other vulnerable venues. The plan also contemplates granting temporary drone-neutralization authority to local agencies (especially via DOJ) in emergency contexts, a shift from the current model where only federal agencies possess that power. The initiative reflects growing recognition that high-profile events are prime targets in an era of low-cost, high-impact unmanned threats. 

Read more here.

AUVSI Defense to Address the State of America’s Defense Industrial Base in Two Weeks

What’s next: At AUVSI Defense, attention turns to the foundation of autonomy itself: the industrial base that enables scale, security, and speed. Discussions will focus on how the United States Department of War and industry can close production gaps, strengthen supply chain resilience, and ensure mission-ready autonomy is built and sustained in America.

Keynote spotlight: The DOW View of the US UxS Industrial Base

The Honorable Michael Cadenazzi, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, Office of the Secretary of Defense, will address the state of the U.S. defense industrial base, the actions DoW is taking to overcome its toughest challenges, and what is needed from industry to accelerate autonomy at speed and scale.

Why it matters: The strength of America’s defense industrial base will determine how quickly autonomy scales to meet mission demand. This keynote will explore how trusted partnerships, production incentives, and industrial coordination can strengthen readiness across the defense ecosystem and maintain the U.S. advantage in contested environments.

Secure your spot today.

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