Trump Signs Executive Orders to Boost U.S. Drone Industry and National Security

President Trump signed two landmark executive orders last week aimed at cementing U.S. global leadership in uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), or drones. The actions are designed to accelerate regulatory reforms, strengthen domestic drone manufacturing, and enhance national security by supporting safe and expanded drone operations, the AUVSI reported.

The executive orders direct the FAA to enable routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations for commercial and public safety missions—long considered a crucial step toward scalable drone deployment. The FAA is also tasked with updating the UAS integration roadmap, reflecting the latest advancements in drone capabilities and timelines for nationwide implementation.

Key provisions include:

• Boosting Domestic Drone Production: Federal procurement will prioritize U.S.-manufactured drones, while promoting exports and safeguarding critical drone technologies from foreign interference.
• Enhancing National Security: Measures will support military access to high-performance drones and streamline airspace and spectrum access for security operations.
• Expanding Detection and Safety Tools: Federal agencies are now authorized to detect and track drone signals, and local governments can access grant funding for drone detection systems.
• Private Infrastructure Protection: New federal guidance will help private-sector infrastructure operators deploy drone detection tools safely.
• eVTOL Pilot Program: The orders also establish a pilot program for integrating electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, supporting cargo and medical response missions across at least five test sites.

Michael Robbins, President & CEO of AUVSI, praised the move as a historic milestone. “Today is a landmark day for American drone innovation, national security, and economic leadership,” Robbins said. “These orders deliver the clarity, security, and investment signals the industry needs.”

Industry leaders echoed this sentiment. David Carbon, VP of Amazon Prime Air, said, “We applaud President Trump for prioritizing BVLOS regulations. Regulatory certainty is essential for scaling commercial drone operations safely and effectively.”