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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 lawmakers passed legislation to ban drones manufactured by "covered foreign entities," primarily China and Russia, for use by state agencies, municipalities, and contractors due to national security concerns.
  • The ban on purchasing such drones takes effect in October 2026, followed by a ban on their operation in October 2028, with earlier deadlines for emergency services.
  • This move addresses concerns over potential cybersecurity and espionage threats from companies like DJI, despite the financial burden it will place on agencies due to the lower cost and widespread use of Chinese-made drones.
  • Connecticut joins several other U.S. states and federal agencies in implementing similar restrictions on foreign-made drones amid growing concerns over their potential ties to adversarial governments.
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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.

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