US President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation imposing new tariffs on imports of drones and drone components, citing national security concerns, Report informs, citing the White House.
The measure introduces a 100% ad valorem tariff on certain drones considered particularly sensitive for national security, including drones with a maximum takeoff weight of more than 25 kilograms or thermal imaging capabilities, as well as their docking stations and key components.
A 25% tariff will apply to some smaller drones and other drone components.
The proclamation also sets lower tariffs for drones and components from several US partners, provided that substantially all hardware, software and technology originate from those countries or the United States. These include a 15% tariff for products from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan, and a 10% tariff for drones from the United Kingdom.
The tariffs will generally take effect 21 days after signing. For less sensitive drone components, they will take effect after 180 days.
The proclamation also authorizes the US commerce secretary to create an onshoring program for companies investing in drone and drone-component manufacturing in the United States.
The White House said drones are critical to modern warfare and future US military operations, while reliance on foreign-made unmanned aircraft system components creates national security and cybersecurity risks.