Register

Connecticut ‘Emergency’ Bill Would Ban Chinese, Russian Drones

State lawmakers approve legislation that includes a provision prohibiting towns, agencies, and contractors from purchasing or using foreign-made drones.

China drone ban DJI
Chinese manufacturer DJI is the world’s largest producer of drones, and U.S. law enforcement and public safety agencies have snapped them up for cheap. [Courtesy: DJI]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Connecticut has passed "emergency" legislation to ban drones manufactured in countries considered national security threats, such as China and Russia, for use by state agencies, towns, and contractors.
  • The ban, driven by cybersecurity and espionage concerns, will prohibit purchasing covered drones by October 2026 and operating them by October 2028, with earlier deadlines for emergency services.
  • This move aligns with federal and other state efforts to replace widely used, often cheaper, foreign-made drones, despite the higher cost of approved alternatives for public safety agencies.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Drones manufactured in countries considered national security threats to the U.S. would be banned from Connecticut towns, state agencies, and contractors under “emergency” legislation backed by state lawmakers on Tuesday.

The bill, which awaits Governor Ned Lamont’s signature, proposes sweeping restrictions on drones built or assembled by “covered foreign entities”—in other words, China and Russia. Chinese drones in particular have proliferated among U.S. law enforcement and public safety agencies and account for an estimated three-quarters of the American consumer drone market, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE