Four systems receive time-limited approvals as a new case-by-case pathway takes shape News and Commentary. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has updated its Covered List to formally incorporate a new category of devices granted Conditional Approval by federal agencies. The March 18, 2026 action marks the first time the FCC has identified specific drone systems … [Read more...] about FCC Updates Covered List, Introduces First Conditional Approvals for Drone Systems
Feature 1
Ukraine’s Drone Industry Is Breaking Its Dependence on Chinese Parts
As Ukraine builds domestic drone components under wartime pressure, the effort offers lessons for manufacturers navigating new supply chain restrictions. Recent reporting in the Kyiv Post and New York Times highlights Ukraine’s effort to reduce reliance on Chinese drone components. While the story is tied to wartime necessity, it raises an important question for the broader … [Read more...] about Ukraine’s Drone Industry Is Breaking Its Dependence on Chinese Parts
From Drones to Helicopters: Robinson, Ascent Build a Scalable Autonomous Rotorcraft Ecosystem
In an exclusive interview with Ascent AeroSystems CEO Paul Fermo: how Robinson and Ascent aim to scale autonomy from small drones to full-size helicopters The rotorcraft industry is entering a new phase as established helicopter manufacturers move deeper into autonomous aviation. A recent announcement revealed a collaboration between Sikorsky and Robinson Helicopter Company to … [Read more...] about From Drones to Helicopters: Robinson, Ascent Build a Scalable Autonomous Rotorcraft Ecosystem
30,000 Attack Drones: Inside the Pentagon’s New Drone Dominance Strategy
Lawmakers and defense officials debate whether the U.S. is ready for large-scale drone warfare as the Pentagon launches a major procurement effort. Pentagon Signals New Demand for Low-Cost Attack Drones The Pentagon has launched a major effort to rapidly scale the production of small attack drones, signaling a shift toward mass deployment of low-cost systems on the … [Read more...] about 30,000 Attack Drones: Inside the Pentagon’s New Drone Dominance Strategy
DJI Seeks Court Review as FCC Covered List Expansion Reshapes U.S. Drone Market
Petition challenges December ruling affecting foreign-made UAS and components The U.S. drone industry continues to adjust to a significant regulatory shift following a December 2025 decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to expand its Covered List to include certain foreign-produced uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and critical components. In response, Chinese … [Read more...] about DJI Seeks Court Review as FCC Covered List Expansion Reshapes U.S. Drone Market
