UAS Protection Order (E.O. 13981)

Summary

Stops the government from buying and using drones made by foreign rivals to keep sensitive information safe and boost American manufacturing.

What problem does this solve?

The U.S. government's use of drones made by foreign rivals creates a risk that sensitive data could be stolen, threatening national security. This order directs federal agencies to stop buying these drones and review the ones they already own to protect government information and support U.S. drone makers.

What does this order do?

Restricts buying drones from foreign rivals

Directs all federal agencies to review their ability to stop buying or funding the purchase of drones made by or with parts from adversary countries like China and Russia.

Requires an inventory of current government drones

Orders all federal agencies to report what foreign-made drones they currently use. The Director of National Intelligence will then assess the security risks they pose.

Defines 'adversary country'

Specifies that an adversary country includes North Korea, Iran, China, and Russia, as well as any other nation the Secretary of Commerce identifies as a threat.

Proposes new rules for flying drones over sensitive areas

Requires the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to propose new rules restricting drone use over critical infrastructure and other sensitive locations.

Makes replacing foreign drones a budget priority

Instructs federal agencies to prioritize funding for the replacement of drones that come from adversary countries.

Who does this affect?

Federal government agencies
Domestic drone manufacturers
Foreign drone manufacturers from adversary countries

What is the real world impact?

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Strengthens national security

Prevents foreign adversaries from using drones to spy on or collect sensitive data from U.S. government operations, protecting military, law enforcement, and critical infrastructure.

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Boosts the American drone industry

Encourages the government to buy drones made in the U.S. by stopping the use of taxpayer money on foreign-made systems. This helps American companies grow and creates jobs.

When does this start?

This order takes effect immediately on January 18, 2021, and sets several deadlines for government agencies.

Agency drone inventory report

Within 60 days, all agencies must submit a report listing the foreign-made drones they own or operate.

National security risk assessment

Within 180 days, the Director of National Intelligence must report to the President on the security risks posed by the government's current drone fleet.

New FAA drone regulations

Within 270 days, the FAA must propose new regulations to restrict drone flights over critical infrastructure and other sensitive sites.