What Is a Foreign Drone Procurement Restriction?

A foreign drone procurement restriction is the limit the American Security Drone Act places on federal procurement of covered unmanned aircraft systems (Pub. L. 118-31, Title XVIII, Subtitle B, sections 1821-1833). The procurement ban has applied since December 22, 2023. From December 22, 2025, the Act also restricts specified operation and use of federal funds for procurement or operation, subject to the Act's exemptions, exceptions, and waivers. All three restrictions sunset December 22, 2028 under section 1833.

Coverage depends on the covered-foreign-entity framework, not foreign manufacture alone. Texas agencies must separately assess their funding and applicable state restrictions. Section 1830 confirms that the Act does not bar state, local, or territorial law enforcement and emergency service agencies from buying covered drones with non-federal funds.

Pinpoint: Pub. L. 118-31, Title XVIII, Subtitle B, §§ 1821-1833. Related term: Foreign Drone Procurement Restriction (Pub. L. 118-31, Title XVIII, Subtitle B, §§ 1821-1833).