Resources
Tools, references, and templates to help you navigate defense drone compliance.
Run a pre-loaded 12-component Recon-X UAS bill of materials through the full compliance pipeline. No upload required.
Launch Demo →Download a properly formatted CSV template with the column headers DepChain expects. Fill in your own data and upload for screening.
Download CSV TemplateNDAA Section 848 Quick Reference
Section 848 of the FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act prohibits DoD from operating or procuring any UAS manufactured in a covered foreign country or containing covered critical components linked to those countries.
Covered components (enumerated in statute):
- Flight controllers
- Radios and data transmission devices
- Cameras and gimbals
- Ground control system / operating software
- Network connectivity and data storage linked to covered nations
A single non-compliant component disqualifies the entire system. Motors are not currently enumerated but are flagged by DepChain as a known policy gap.
Defense Drone Compliance Checklist
A quick-reference checklist for drone OEMs pursuing DoD contracts or Blue UAS certification.
- Map all BOM components to country of origin (mine-to-mission)
- Screen all suppliers against OFAC SDN + Consolidated Lists
- Screen against BIS Entity List including 50%+ Affiliates Rule
- Verify no BOM lines resolve to SAM.gov FASC / CSL covered entities
- Check FCC Covered List (DA 25-1086) for UAS components
- Confirm NDAA §848 covered components are not sourced from covered nations
- Verify CMMC Level 2+ status for all subs handling CUI/FCI
- Confirm ITAR registration for suppliers handling USML items
- Document all screening results with list version and date
- Establish sub-tier supplier due diligence per DFARS 252.246-7007/08
- Plan for FCC exemption expiration (January 1, 2027)
- Plan for FY26 NDAA §842 foreign battery prohibition (2028)
Key Upcoming Deadlines
| DATE | REGULATION | IMPACT |
|---|---|---|
| ACTIVE | FAR 52.240-1 (ASDA) | Governmentwide UAS operational prohibition |
| ACTIVE | FCC DA 25-1086 | UAS + components added to Covered List |
| May 2026 | OMB M-26-02 | Agency procurement policy updates due |
| Jun 2026 | NDAA §805 | 1260H-listed entity prohibition |
| Jan 2027 | FCC Exemption Sunset | Buy American exemptions expire |
| 2028 | FY26 NDAA §842 | FEOC-sourced battery prohibition |
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