President Donald J. Trump today signed a Proclamation imposing new tariffs on imports of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, and their critical parts and components. The action is designed to address national security vulnerabilities stemming from the United States’ heavy reliance on foreign sources for drones and related technology, while strengthening America’s domestic drone manufacturing base and supply chains.
Under the Proclamation: A 100% ad valorem tariff will apply to drones of a certain size or with capabilities particularly sensitive for national security purposes. This includes drones with a maximum takeoff weight of more than 25 kilograms (approximately 55 pounds), drones equipped with thermal imaging capabilities, docking stations for these systems, and certain critical components.
A 25% ad valorem tariff will apply to smaller drones that lack the most sensitive national security features, as well as other drone components.
Preferential rates of 15% will apply to qualifying drones and components from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, and Taiwan, and 10% for the United Kingdom, provided that substantially all hardware, software, and technology originates from within those countries and the United States.
The tariffs on the most sensitive categories will take effect 21 days after signing (September 3, 2026). Tariffs on certain less-sensitive components will take effect 180 days after signing to allow time for industry adjustment and onshoring.
“The United States is too reliant on foreign sources of unmanned aircraft systems and their components,” the Proclamation states, citing findings by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. The investigation determined that foreign import penetration is substantial, that certain foreign-sourced drones and parts pose security and safety risks, and that domestic industry currently does not produce enough to meet U.S. security needs.
The Proclamation authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to establish an onshoring program. Companies that make new investments in U.S. manufacturing of drones and drone components may qualify for relief from the tariffs, encouraging the reshoring of production and the creation of American jobs in this critical dual-use technology sector.
Drones are inherently dual-use platforms with significant commercial, public safety, and military applications. The Administration emphasized that over-dependence on foreign supply chains particularly for motors, electronic speed controllers, lithium-ion batteries, and docking stations creates unacceptable national security vulnerabilities, including risks of unauthorized surveillance, data exfiltration, and potential disruptions to homeland security.
This action builds on the Administration’s broader efforts to secure critical technology supply chains, reduce strategic dependencies, and restore American manufacturing leadership in emerging dual-use industries.
Most of the new duties are scheduled to take effect on September 3, 2026.