Federal Drone Restrictions for University Projects
The Office of Research Security issued a notice of the federal prohibition on the purchase, use, and operation of certain drones for federally funded projects that became effective December 22, 2025. Among the prohibited drone brands are DJI (Shenzhen DJI Innovation Technology Co., Ltd), Autel Robotics Co. Ltd, Aerospace CH UAV Co., Ltd, and Chengdu JOUAV Automation Tech Co., Ltd. (JOUAV). Questions regarding this federal prohibition should be directed at the Office of Research Security.
To accommodate this federal prohibition, the PCMO would like to outline two awards currently available that offer drone brands that are not prohibited.
- 2101GAL – Safeware, Inc.
- Contact: Kurt Wilhelm
- Phone: 301-683-1234
- Email: kwilhelm@safewareinc.com
- Brands offered include but not limited to Skydio, Anduril, Autel, Brinc, Aero Systems, Action, American Robotics.
2. 2408GAL – Axon Enterprise, Inc.
- Contact: Molly Black
- Email: mblack@axon.com
- Brands offered include but not limited to Skydio.
Ensure your departments are taking the necessary precautions to remain in compliance. Questions regarding these available awards or alternative purchasing options, please contact the UIUC PCMO.