North Dakota Proposes $15 Million to Replace Chinese-Made Drones

Legislation Reflects National Security Concerns and State-Level Compliance Efforts

North Dakota’s reliance on Chinese-made drones is under scrutiny, as nearly 90% of drones used by state agencies are manufactured in China. Rep. Mike Nathe, R-Bismarck, has introduced a bill to allocate $15 million to replace these drones.

The bill mirrors similar efforts by other states, such as Florida, where a 2023 state law banned public agencies from using drones manufactured by Chinese companies, including dominant drone manufacturer DJI. Florida agencies are required to purchase drones from an approved list of manufacturers under the state’s Department of Management Services. North Dakota’s proposed legislation follows a similar path, addressing security concerns and compliance with upcoming federal restrictions.

Rising Concerns About National Security

Federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, have warned about risks associated with drones from “covered foreign entities.” A 2021 Defense Department statement specifically named DJI drones as potential threats to national security. North Dakota agencies, which own 353 drones, rely heavily on these foreign-manufactured devices, according to research by the state’s Legislative Council.

Rep. Nathe highlighted the potential for Chinese-made drones to unknowingly transmit data about critical infrastructure. “In North Dakota, we have drones going over oil fields, missile sites, Air Force bases, our agricultural land, everything. That’s not only a security concern for North Dakota, it’s a security concern for the U.S.,” Nathe said, as reported by the North Dakota Monitor.

Other states have echoed these concerns. Florida’s initiative to ban Chinese-manufactured drones reflects a growing trend among states to prioritize security by phasing out potentially risky technologies. These state actions align with federal legislation such as the National Defense Authorization Act and the American Security Drone Act, which prohibit federal agencies from using drones manufactured in certain foreign countries. These federal laws take effect in December 2025.

Transitioning to Federally Approved Drone Solutions

North Dakota agencies have already begun transitioning away from Chinese-manufactured drones. The North Dakota State University Extension Service has started acquiring drones from the Blue UAS Cleared List, a compilation of federally approved drone manufacturers. The North Dakota Forest Service stopped using Chinese drones in 2023, while the Public Service Commission has limited their use.

Utilizing the Blue sUAS Cleared List, however, means that choices are limited to those models deemed appropriate for Department of Defense evaluation.  The National Defense Authorization Act calls for a broader approach, outlining guidelines for US manufacturers and ensuring that available platforms are not ruled out.

Florida agencies have faced similar challenges in transitioning to approved systems. Public safety and law enforcement departments have had to balance operational demands with the logistical hurdles of replacing fleets and training staff on new devices. Florida’s Department of Management Services and other state agencies have reported increased costs but have emphasized the importance of ensuring security and compliance.

Nathe’s proposed bill in North Dakota takes a comprehensive approach, providing funding not only for replacement drones but also for employee training. It also encourages agencies to share drones where possible to optimize resources.

Broad Implications for State and National Security

Gov. Doug Burgum has endorsed Nathe’s bill, urging lawmakers to fast-track its passage. The proposal includes an emergency clause, which would allow the bill to take effect immediately upon approval. Attorney General Drew Wrigley supports the legislation, emphasizing the importance of preventing sensitive data from being transmitted to foreign entities.

“The last thing the United States needs is for our enemies to have precise mapping of our infrastructure all across the United States,” Wrigley said in an interview with the North Dakota Monitor.

A National Trend Toward Securing Drone Programs

North Dakota’s proposed legislation reflects a broader national effort to address security concerns related to foreign-manufactured drones. With federal compliance deadlines approaching in 2025, state agencies across the country are taking steps to ensure their drone programs meet evolving security standards while maintaining operational efficiency.

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