Trump Hikes Drone Tariffs to 100% on Large/ Thermally Equipped Drones and Parts
President Trump announces sweeping drone tariffs, including a 100% duty on imports of drones with thermal cameras, drones over 25 kg, and any drone parts for those aircraft, while smaller drones face a 25% levy. Companies can avoid tariffs if they shift production to the United States, and allies like the EU, Japan, and the UK would face lower rates (15% and 10% respectively) if the majority of hardware and software originate domestically. The move is justified by national security, data-security concerns, and questions about U.S. domestic production capacity, with a Commerce Department program proposed to spur domestic UAS manufacturing. Courts have already ruled Trump's global tariffs illegal, and observers warn consumers may bear higher prices while corporations benefit from eventual refunds if tariffs are overturned. The FCC is also considering retroactive bans on so-called military-grade drones that could affect farmers, first responders, and public displays.
