U.S. policy and funding now send an unmistakable signal: domestic drone and autonomous systems development is a national priority. But translating that momentum into lasting leadership will require more than federal directives and prototype programs. In this guest post, AUVSI President and CEO Michael Robbins argues that investing in regional autonomy hubs is the critical next … [Read more...] about AUVSI’s Michael Robbins on Why Regional Autonomy Hubs Are Critical to U.S. Drone Leadership
U.S. drone industry
U.S. Officials Call for Commerce Investigation Amid Growing Scrutiny of DJI and Other Chinese Tech Firms
U.S. Lawmakers Urge Commerce Department to Probe China-Tied Tech in Drone Sector A consortium of U.S. congressional leaders has formally urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to investigate technology products linked to China across critical industries, with a particular mention of unmanned systems and the drone sector. In a letter dated October 30, 2025, the Chairs of four … [Read more...] about U.S. Officials Call for Commerce Investigation Amid Growing Scrutiny of DJI and Other Chinese Tech Firms
FCC Expands National Security Rules: What It Could Mean for DJI Drones
Potential Impacts on the U.S. Drone Market *story updated 10/30 to include DJI's statement. The Federal Communications Commission voted unanimously on October 28, 2025 to expand its authority over telecommunications equipment considered a national security concern. The new rules allow the FCC to restrict previously authorized devices and component parts if they are produced … [Read more...] about FCC Expands National Security Rules: What It Could Mean for DJI Drones
Ascent AeroSystems Achieves CMMC 2.0 Certification, Setting New Benchmark for Secure U.S. Drone Manufacturing
The Massachusetts-based Ascent AeroSystems becomes the first CMMC 2.0 certified drone manufacturer with a perfect score. Ascent AeroSystems, a U.S. manufacturer of rugged, all-weather coaxial unmanned aerial systems (UAS), has announced that it is the first domestic small drone maker to achieve Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2. The company earned a … [Read more...] about Ascent AeroSystems Achieves CMMC 2.0 Certification, Setting New Benchmark for Secure U.S. Drone Manufacturing
Badland Batteries Launches U.S. Made 12S and 6S Battery Packs for Commercial Drones
A new player joins the U.S. supply chain for drone power systems Badland Batteries, a subsidiary of Packet Digital, has announced the launch of its 12S and 6S lithium-ion battery packs for commercial unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The batteries, designed and built entirely in Fargo, North Dakota, are available for purchase beginning October 13. In a drone market long … [Read more...] about Badland Batteries Launches U.S. Made 12S and 6S Battery Packs for Commercial Drones
