Federal Register #GN Docket No. 26-74; WT Docket Nos. 22-323 and 24-629; DA 26-314; FR ID 340786

FCC Seeks Public Input on Regulatory and Spectrum Reforms to Advance U.S. Drone Leadership

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking public comments on advancing American drone leadership through regulatory and technical reforms. - Government Buyer: - Federal Communications Commission (FCC) - Wireless Telecommunications Bureau - Office of Engineering and Technology - OEMs and Vendors Mentioned: - AURA Networks (proposed 450 MHz band modifications) - Echodyne (proposed 24.45–24.65 GHz radiolocation operations) - Defense Contract Management Agency's Blue UAS list (referenced for trusted U.S. drone suppliers) - Products/Services Requested: - No specific products, part numbers, or quantities are being procured - The notice requests public input on: - Regulatory relief for drone operations - Spectrum access for drone testing and operations - Investment in drone capabilities and infrastructure - Regulatory clarity for U.S.-based manufacturers and trusted suppliers - Coordination with other federal agencies and law enforcement - Streamlining experimental licensing rules - Establishing drone innovation zones or testbeds - Market-based incentives for U.S.-made drones - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Focus on supporting U.S.-based drone manufacturers and trusted suppliers - Emphasis on spectrum allocation and regulatory clarity - Collaboration with law enforcement and other agencies - No direct procurement; this is a request for comments and suggestions on policy and technical changes

Description

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking public comments on reforms to promote American drone dominance. The scope includes alleviating regulatory burdens, ensuring spectrum access for drone testing and operations, facilitating investment in drone capabilities and infrastructure, providing regulatory clarity for U.S.-based manufacturers, coordinating with federal agencies, streamlining experimental licensing rules, and establishing drone innovation zones or testbeds. Comments are due by May 1, 2026, with reply comments due by May 18, 2026.

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