Update to Countering CCP Drone Act - Amendment Aims to Limit Chinese-Made Drones

Update to Countering CCP Drone Act - Amendment Aims to Limit Chinese-Made Drones

Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) has put forth an amendment to the Senate’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025, intending to include the Countering CCP Drones Act. This act is already incorporated in the House’s version of the NDAA FY25. The House has similar provisions in its version.

Initially introduced by Senators Rick Scott, Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Tom Cotton (R-AR) in February 2022, the Countering CCP Drones Act aims to mitigate national security risks associated with drones manufactured by companies linked to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The current amendment, SA 3098, addresses these concerns.

Key Provisions of Amendment SA 3098: Countering CCP Drones

1.   Identifying Chinese Military Companies: The Secretary of Defense is tasked with identifying any unmanned aircraft system manufacturers operating in the U.S. that are Chinese military companies.

2.   Adding to Restricted List: Companies such as DJI Technologies and Autel Robotics, along with their affiliates and partners, will be added to a list of restricted communications and video surveillance equipment and services. This could restrict future imports of their drones and limit their use of FCC spectrum.

3.   First Responder Secure Drone Program: This program will provide grants to U.S. public safety agencies for purchasing or leasing secure small drones that are not manufactured by foreign entities of concern.

4.   Grant Conditions: Grants may be used for acquiring drones, related software, training, and disposing of old drones. Typically, the federal share of project costs is capped at 50%, but this can increase to 75% in specific cases. The program will end two years after its enactment or when funds are depleted.

The amendment seeks to reduce reliance on Chinese-made drones and improve the security of U.S. unmanned aircraft systems.

Next Steps

The proposed amendment will be reviewed when the Senate considers its version of the NDAA FY25. If the amendment is not included in the Senate’s version, the House and Senate will reconcile their versions of the bill in committee. This reconciliation offers another chance for the Countering CCP Drones Act to be included in the final legislation.

However, some drone advocacy groups and a coalition of first responder drone users, including CalChiefs, oppose the provisions of the Countering CCP Drones Act, expressing concerns about the impact on their operations and the availability of reliable and affordable equipment.

Chief Chris Tubbs, CalChiefs Past President

Southern Marin Fire Protection District