What it does The Public Notice implements a December 21, 2025 National Security Determination, concluding that the statutory conditions for updating the Covered List are satisfied. The new category covers foreign-produced UAS and critical components—including data transmission devices, communications systems, flight controllers, ground control stations, controllers, navigation systems, sensors and cameras, batteries, battery-management systems, and motors—subject to possible exclusions based on a specific determination by the Department of War or Department of Homeland Security. The updated list is attached as Appendix A.

Who it affects The change affects manufacturers, providers, importers, equipment-authorization applicants, testing laboratories, and telecommunications and public-safety users dealing in covered equipment. Covered equipment is prohibited from receiving FCC equipment authorization, and applicants must certify that equipment is not covered. The new UAS category is identified by place of production rather than by entity, while the Appendix also continues to list named companies and their affiliates and subsidiaries.

Why it matters The action expands the Covered List beyond previously named telecommunications, surveillance, cybersecurity, and international-telecommunications providers to a broad foreign-production category for UAS and critical components. The determination cites risks involving unauthorized surveillance, data exfiltration, remote access, disabling through software updates, attacks, and supply-chain dependence.

Key dates and numbers

• Released and Covered List updated: December 22, 2025.
• National Security Determination received: December 21, 2025.
• Authorities: Secure Networks Act section 2; FY2025 NDAA section 1709; 47 CFR §§ 1.50002(a), 1.50003, 2.903(a), and 2.911.
• Docket and release identifier: DA 25-1086; WC Docket No. 18-89; ET Docket No. 21-232; EA Docket No. 21-233.