U.S. Department of Commerce Seeks Input on Securing the Supply Chain for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

U.S. skies not for Chinese-made drones.  

The U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) regarding the security of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. This ANPRM is in line with Executive Order 13873, under which other rules have been finalized or are in the process of being finalized, not to mention the one on #ConnectedCars. 

Growing concerns: Similar to other rules, BIS is concerned about the potential risks associated with the involvement of China and Russia in the design, development, manufacture, or supply of information and communications technology and services (ICTS) that are integral to UAS. 

What's at stake? The potential for data exfiltration, remote access, and the ability of foreign adversaries to compel companies to cooperate in harmful activities.

Key Components of Concern: The ANPRM specifically identifies on-board computers, communications systems, flight control systems, ground control stations, software, data storage, and AI applications as areas of concern.

Broad Scope: The proposed rules could affect a wide range of stakeholders, including those in the agriculture, chemical, construction, energy, telecommunications, and other critical infrastructure sectors. 

Definitions of UAS: BIS is considering various definitions and is seeking input on which is most appropriate. Based on the many comments submitted during the Connected Car ANPRM, we anticipate this will be one of the critical issues. 

Supply Chain Risks: The request for comment seeks input on supply chain vulnerabilities and the geographic locations where key components of UAS are manufactured. 

The comment period closes on March 4, 2025. Make your voice heard!

#UAS #Drones #Cybersecurity #NationalSecurity #SupplyChain #ICTS #DepartmentofCommerce #PublicComment #Rulemaking #Technology #BIS #China #Russia

https://www.bis.gov/press-release/commerce-issues-advance-notice-proposed-rulemaking-secure-unmanned-aircraft-systems