DJI Agras Ban in USA - The 2026 Definitive Guide
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DJI Ban USA
Despite headlines about U.S. government bans on Chinese drones, American farmers can still buy and use DJI drones and parts legally – and Ares Acres is here to help. In fact, federal restrictions only target government agency purchases, not private or commercial farming use aresacres.com. As a U.S.-based authorized importer, Ares Acres LLC continues to resell full DJI drone kits and original parts to customers nationwide, handling all logistics and compliance so you get your equipment fast (often in ~2 weeks). Below, we dive into what the DJI scrutiny means, how it evolved, and why Ares Acres remains your reliable source for high-end drones and components.
\ Ares Acres – DJI Agras Agricultural Drone Systems \
U.S. Restrictions on DJI: A Timeline (2017–2025)
Timeline of major U.S. actions regarding DJI drones, 2017–2025 (Army bans, agency warnings, trade blacklisting, and recent security reviews).
Over the past several years, DJI – the Chinese manufacturer dominating the drone market – has faced increasing U.S. government scrutiny. Starting in 2017, the U.S. Army banned its units from using DJI drones due to “cyber vulnerabilities”. By 2019, the Department of Homeland Security warned that Chinese-made drones could pose data security risks, and the Interior Department grounded over 800 DJI drones used for wildfire and land management in early 2020. In December 2020, DJI was added to the U.S. Commerce Department’s “Entity List” – an export blacklist – over allegations of involvement in human rights abuses. This blacklisting made it harder for DJI to source some U.S. components but did not outlaw sales of DJI products domestically.
The pressure continued: in 2021 the Pentagon labeled DJI a “Chinese military company,” barring the Pentagon and its contractors from buying DJI gear. And in 2023, U.S. Customs halted certain DJI imports on claims of forced labor in DJI’s supply chain. Most recently, policy has focused on communications security: a clause in the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requires a federal security audit of DJI (and peer firm Autel) by late 2025 – or else DJI will be placed on the FCC’s “Covered List” of banned communications equipment. The FCC even voted in October 2025 to give itself power to revoke radio certifications for any company on that list, meaning DJI could eventually be barred from marketing new drone models in the U.S. if the audit isn’t completed in time. As of now, DJI is calling for a deadline extension and insists that past audits found no unexpected vulnerabilities.
Crucially, none of these measures prohibits private individuals or companies from owning or purchasing DJI drones. The bans and pending actions apply to government use (e.g. military, federal agencies) and future FCC licensing – not to farmers buying a spraying drone for their fields aresacres.com. In short, there is no outright U.S. ban on DJI products for civilian use. Even the possible FCC “Covered List” designation would mainly stop new models from getting approved; DJI drones already in use (or currently for sale) would remain operable. Ares Acres wants American growers to be very clear on this point: you are fully authorized to buy, import, and operate DJI agricultural drones on your farm aresacres.com, and we will continue delivering them with “white-glove” door-to-door service for all customers.
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DJI’s Market Dominance vs. U.S. Alternatives
It’s no wonder policymakers are concerned – Chinese manufacturers (led by DJI) command an overwhelming share of the drone market, both globally and in the U.S. In fact, roughly 80% of drones used in the U.S. today are made by Chinese firms (primarily DJI). The remaining 20% is split among a long tail of American and European producers. DJI’s closest competitor is another Chinese company, Autel, which likewise faces potential U.S. restrictions (it was named alongside DJI in the NDAA’s security review mandate). A few non-Chinese brands do exist – France’s Parrot and U.S.-based Skydio being prominent examples – but their market presence is small by comparison and they tend to focus on specialty niches (e.g. Parrot on mapping, Skydio on autonomous filming). Even in the critical public safety sector, DJI accounts for over 90% of drones used by America’s first responders.

Approximate breakdown of the U.S. drone market by manufacturer origin (2025). Chinese-made drones (mostly DJI) make up about four-fifths of the market.
Other Drone Players: Several companies are angling to fill any gap if DJI’s U.S. access becomes limited. For instance, Skydio (USA) builds Blue UAS-approved drones favored by the U.S. military, and Parrot (France) supplies some government and commercial users with its ANAFI series (no U.S. bans on these). AeroVironment (USA) is another notable player – known for military UAVs – now expanding into agriculture and mapping drones. There are also newer entrants: e.g. startup Guardian Agriculture (USA) attempted a large agricultural drone, though it recently shut down, while a firm called Exedy is reportedly building spray drones in Michigan. The industry is clearly preparing for a “Plan B” scenario. As one agri-drone service provider put it, “We predicted DJI was going to be banned… that creates an opportunity for new manufacturers to come to market”. Indeed, at least 50 new drone makers – from automotive companies to tech startups – are exploring the ag drone space right now.
However, experts acknowledge that no current competitor matches DJI’s scale, technology, or support network. If DJI drones truly became unavailable, it would “literally kill the industry” in the short term, said one U.S. Drone Alliance advocate, because “we have nothing to replace them with” on equal performance or cost. This is why farmers and contractors are wisely securing DJI equipment and parts now, and why Ares Acres has doubled down on inventory – so our customers won’t experience any disruption even if regulatory winds shift.
| DJI Agras T100 Platinum Set |
Major Industry Players (Summary):
| Manufacturer | Origin | Notable Role & Status in U.S. Market |
|---|---|---|
| DJI | China | World’s #1 drone maker (~70% global share; ~80% U.S. share). Flagship in ag drones (Agras series). Under U.S. gov’t scrutiny, but still fully legal for private use aresacres.com. |
| Autel Robotics | China | DJI’s smaller Chinese rival. Makes prosumer drones. Included in U.S. security review mandates (same boat as DJI). |
| Parrot | France | Leading European drone maker. Offers ANAFI USA (rugged micro-drone). Approved for U.S. gov’t use (Blue UAS); no bans on commercial sales. Minor U.S. market share. |
| Skydio | USA | Cutting-edge autonomy drones (R1, X2) used by some enterprises and agencies. Blue UAS approved. Growing fast but <5% market share. Not affected by DJI bans (benefits as a local option). |
| AeroVironment | USA | Known for military drones (Switchblade, Raven). Also produces some ag/mapping UAVs. Secure but higher cost; limited civilian adoption so far. |
| Others (50+) | Various | Numerous startups (e.g. Teal, Freefly, Wingtra, XAG etc.) and new projects (e.g. Exedy in USA, Yamaha in Japan). Many seeking to capitalize on any DJI withdrawal, but no clear substitute leader yet. |
Booming Drone Market: Growth Trends (and Why DJI Still Matters)
If anything is certain, it’s that drones are here to stay. Despite geopolitical tussles, the economic and practical value of UAVs is driving explosive growth worldwide. The global drone industry (all uses) is on track to more than double from ~$73 billion in 2024 to over $163 billion by 2030, a ~14% annual growth rate. The U.S. is a huge part of this, with North America accounting for ~39% of the market in 2024. And in agriculture specifically, adoption is surging. The global agricultural robotics sector – which includes crop-spraying drones like DJI Agras – was about $14.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $48 billion by 2030 (over 3× growth, ~23% CAGR). In fact, analysts say one in every five dollars of ag-robotics revenue worldwide comes from North America, thanks to U.S. farmers’ early embrace of precision tech.
Global agricultural robotics (including drones) market is projected to more than triple by 2030. Drones are a key driver of this growth as farming operations seek efficiency and automation.
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This booming demand is why American farmers cannot afford to lose access to the best drone technology. DJI’s innovations still set the benchmark – for example, the new DJI Agras T100 can carry a 100 L spray tank and cover 20+ hectares per hour, replacing multiple older machines in a single flight. DJI’s scale also means more affordable prices and a rich ecosystem of parts, apps, and support. Real-world users report enormous productivity gains: a drone like the T100 can do a day’s worth of spraying in under an hour, with centimeter-level precision via GPS-guided automation. It’s these advantages that have led roughly 4 out of 5 U.S. ag applicators to choose DJI models agfundernews.com. The bottom line: American agriculture’s competitiveness in drones currently relies on DJI – and by extension, on trusted suppliers like Ares Acres to keep that tech available and supported.
A DJI Agras agricultural drone in action over U.S. farmland (credit: Rantizo). DJI accounts for 80%+ of crop-spraying drones used by American farmers agfundernews.com, thanks to its technology’s efficiency and reliability.

| DJI Agras Parts – Batteries, Motherboards, Propellers |
Encouragingly, even U.S. policymakers acknowledge the need for balance. Recent federal initiatives aim to boost domestic drone manufacturing without suddenly hobbling farmers’ access to equipment. For example, President Biden’s team ordered a review (NDAA §1709) rather than an immediate ban, and did not include DJI on the FCC’s list yet – indicating a desire to assess facts over fear. Industry groups are pushing for “common sense” outcomes that let existing DJI units keep flying. In parallel, the FAA is expanding drone operating rules (like allowing advanced beyond-visual-line-of-sight flights), which will further increase drones’ utility in agriculture and beyond. All these trends point to continued growth, with or without DJI in the mix. But in the near term, American growers clearly prefer the proven DJI platforms – and will for as long as they remain obtainable.
Why Ares Acres Keeps You Covered
Ares Acres is a leading agrotechnology company providing drone pilots with DJI Agras Drones and Parts. In this time of uncertainty, our mission is to ensure U.S. farmers never lose access to the best drone technology. Here’s how we deliver peace of mind:
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Guaranteed Genuine Products & Parts: We explicitly advertise and sell only official DJI agriculture drones and original parts – no counterfeits, no gray-market units. Every drone comes with DJI factory verification. From full Agras drone kits down to replacement motors and nozzles, Ares Acres has you covered with authentic hardware. Our stock includes the latest models (T25, T50, T70, T100) and their spare parts, ready for immediate order.
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“White-Glove” Import Logistics: Purchasing a large drone directly can be daunting due to export/import rules. We handle all that. Ares Acres manages the paperwork, FCC compliance, export licensing, customs clearance and delivery to get your DJI drone from the factory to your farm hassle-free. Farmers who order through us typically receive their equipment in 10–14 business days. We coordinate freight and even include final-mile delivery to your doorstep. In short, we absorb the complexity – you just open the box and start flying.
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Fully Legal and U.S.-Compliant: As explained, owning and operating DJI drones for private use is legal – and every unit we sell is configured to meet U.S. requirements. Our Agras drones ship with FCC-approved radios and non-geofenced firmware for the North American region. No hacks or workarounds needed. We ensure all FAA guidelines (remote ID, etc.) are satisfied, so your drone is ready to fly under FAA Part 107 rules upon arrival. Ares Acres also stays up-to-date on policy changes – if anything ever were to affect private sales, we would inform you and adapt immediately. So far, that hasn’t been an issuearesacres.com.
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Expert Support and Training: We don’t just sell drones – we partner in your success. Our team provides live one-on-one guidance on FAA licensing (Part 107 remote pilot and Part 137 for spraying), firmware updates, mission planning software, and safe operation practices. Every Ares Acres customer gets access to consultation and troubleshooting. We also help facilitate DJI Care/Warranty service; since you bought through an authorized channel, your warranty is valid and we’ll assist with any claims. And importantly, we maintain a robust parts inventory and 24/7 support line, minimizing any downtime.
|Ares Acres – DJI Agras Agricultural Drone Systems |
In short, Ares Acres is committed to keeping American growers equipped with world-class drone technology no matter what regulatory twists and turns occur. We have the experience (as an Albuquerque-based company working directly with DJI factories) and the infrastructure to ensure “business as usual” for our customers, despite the federal bans on government use. As one industry guide confirmed, Section 1709 and related rules “do not restrict private-sector sales” of these dronesaresacres.com – so Ares Acres will confidently continue operations as we always have, delivering DJI Agras drones legally to U.S. farms.
Conclusion
The ongoing U.S.–China tech tensions have created a confusing narrative around DJI, but the key takeaway for farmers and commercial drone operators is this: you can absolutely still buy and use DJI drones and parts in the United States, and those tools are driving major efficiency gains in agriculture. The restrictions to date apply to federal agencies and future approvals – they do not stop a private business or individual from purchasing the best drone for the job aresacres.com. DJI remains the market leader for good reason, and its products are expected to play a big role in the future of precision farming. At the same time, the drone industry is evolving fast, with new players and domestic options on the horizon. Ares Acres welcomes this innovation, but also recognizes that our customers need solutions here and now that have proven performance.
Our pledge is to keep providing those solutions. Ares Acres has established itself as a trusted U.S. source for DJI agricultural drones – offering authenticity, fast fulfillment, and full support. We operate with full transparency and compliance, so you can purchase with confidence that everything is above-board and backed by DJI’s warranty. If you’re concerned about the “DJI ban” news, remember that it does not mean you as a consumer are banned from anything. We will continue securing and delivering the latest DJI Agras units (and parts) to American customers, ensuring your farm doesn’t miss a beat.
In sum, DJI’s drones are still in the sky on U.S. farms, and with Ares Acres as your partner, they’ll stay there – helping you achieve greater productivity and sustainability. We combine global technology with local service, so you can focus on flying and farming rather than politics. As the drone landscape grows to $100+ billion in the coming decade, we’re excited to help U.S. agriculture remain at the cutting edge of this revolution. Explore our catalog or contact us anytime for expert guidance on navigating this dynamic domain. Your farm’s aerial future is bright – and Ares Acres is here to make sure of it.
אַד Sources: This report was compiled from official statements, market research, and Ares Acres’ technical documentation. Key references include Reuters and FCC filings on U.S. drone policy, industry interviews from AgFunderNews agfundernews.com, global market analyses, and Ares Acres’ own product and policy guides aresacres.com. All information is up-to-date as of 2025, offering an authoritative snapshot of the current state of DJI drones in America and the road ahead.
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DJI Agras T100 Platinum Set - Available in USA
DJI Agras T100 Combo – 100L Agricultural Drone with 3 Batteries, Smart Charger, and Generator
Complete High-Capacity Spraying System for Commercial Farms and Precision Agriculture
DJI Agras T100 Full Set – Agro Sprayer Drone
Package Includes:
1 × DJI Agras T100 Agricultural Drone
3 × DJI DB2160 Intelligent Flight Batteries (41,000 mAh, 60 V)
1 × DJI C12000 Smart Battery Charger (12,000 W)
1 × DJI 14000iE Field Inverter Generator (14,000 W peak output)
Tools, cables, and accessories for setup and maintenance
Overview
The DJI Agras T100 is DJI’s most powerful agricultural drone to date, engineered for large-scale farming operations that demand speed, power, and precision. With a 100-liter liquid tank and 103 kg maximum takeoff weight, the T100 reduces refilling time while increasing application coverage—making it ideal for intensive agricultural spraying, broadcasting, and mapping missions.
This premium combo includes three DB2160 batteries, a C12000 dual-channel smart charger, and a high-output DJI 14000iE inverter generator. Together, they provide a continuous, field-ready spraying system that minimizes downtime and maximizes operational efficiency in remote or power-limited areas.
Advanced onboard features such as phased-array radar, AI-assisted route planning, terrain-following, and RTK-level positioning ensure that every flight is safe, efficient, and highly accurate—no matter the terrain or crop type.
Key Features
100-Liter Spray Tank
DJI’s largest tank for fewer refills and longer missions
Ideal for row crops, orchards, plantations, and broad-acre farms
Heavy Payload Capacity
103 kg maximum takeoff weight (spray mode)
Up to 149.9 kg supported in broadcasting mode
Complete Field Power Ecosystem
Includes 3 DB2160 Intelligent Batteries (41,000 mAh, 60 V)
C12000 charger supports simultaneous dual-battery charging
DJI 14000iE generator provides 14,000 W of mobile charging capacity
High-Efficiency Spraying
Spray up to 21 hectares per hour under optimal conditions
Reduces labor costs, refueling time, and chemical waste
Precision Flight and Safety
Dual active phased-array radar and terrain-following sensors
AI route optimization and intelligent obstacle detection
RTK-enabled flight for sub-inch application accuracy
Industrial Durability
Dust- and water-resistant, with sealed electronics for field use
Foldable carbon fiber frame allows easy transport and storage
Built to endure high heat, humidity, and uneven terrain
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Tank Capacity | 100 liters (liquid spraying) |
| Max Payload (Spraying) | 100 kg |
| Max Payload (Broadcasting) | 149.9 kg |
| Max Coverage | Up to 21 hectares/hour |
| Battery Model | DB2160 Intelligent Flight Battery |
| Battery Capacity | 41,000 mAh / 60 V |
| Charging Time | ~9–12 minutes per battery (dual-port) |
| Wind Resistance | 6 m/s |
| Flight Control | AI, RTK, Obstacle Avoidance, Terrain Follow |
| Expanded Dimensions | 3220 × 3224 × 975 mm |
| Folded Dimensions | 1105 × 1265 × 975 mm |
Power System Components
DJI DB2160 Intelligent Battery
High-density 41,000 mAh / 60 V lithium-ion design
Supports up to 1,500 cycles for long-term efficiency
Smart thermal regulation and discharge protection
DJI C12000 Smart Charging Hub
12,000 W max output with dual high-speed channels
Intelligent battery balancing and safety monitoring
DJI 14000iE Generator
Peak Output: 14,000 W
Fuel-efficient inverter technology
Optimized for fast-charging DJI agricultural batteries in remote fields
Ideal For
Commercial farming operations (rice, sugarcane, corn, oil palm, etc.)
Agricultural service contractors
Government and cooperative spraying programs
Farm management and agri-tech professionals
Warranty, Shipping, and Support
2-Year DJI Manufacturer Warranty – Covers parts and workmanship for added confidence
180-Day Satisfaction Guarantee – Return in original condition for any reason
Zero Sales Tax – The price you see is the final price you pay
Free Global Shipping – All international freight, import duties, and customs clearance included
Premium Door-to-Door Logistics
Every DJI Agras T100 Combo ships with white-glove door-to-door logistics, ensuring safe, fast, and hassle-free delivery from our secure warehouse directly to your farm, warehouse, airstrip, or field site—no customs paperwork or freight coordination needed. We handle:
Export documentation
International air or sea freight
Import taxes, VAT, and duties
Final-mile delivery to your exact location
Common Questions from Farmers and Dealers
Can I buy the DJI T100 right now?
Yes. The drone is available for order and delivery within 10 to 14 business days through Ares Acres.
Is there a ban or restriction on DJI drones in the U.S.?
No ban applies to private or commercial agricultural users. Restrictions focus on government procurement only.
Does the T100 come with software or firmware restrictions?
No. It comes with full international firmware, no geofencing, and FCC-compliant radio settings.
What if my drone gets held up at customs?
Ares Acres’ customs brokers handle all documentation and classification to minimize this risk. If a delay occurs, we communicate promptly and assist with resolution.
Do I need FAA certification to fly?
Yes. Spraying requires Part 137 certification. General use requires Part 107 certification.
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