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United States announces Section 232 tariffs on unmanned aircraft systems

Date of publication: August 14, 2026.
On August 13, 2026, the President issued a proclamation imposing new Section 232 tariffs on certain imported unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, as well as specified UAS components. The measures are intended to address national-security concerns and encourage expanded U.S. manufacturing capacity.
Effective September 3, 2026,
additional duties will apply to covered imports entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption:
  • 100% additional duty
     on UAS weighing more than 25 kg, UAS incorporating thermal imaging, UAS docking stations, and certain specified components.
  • 25% additional duty
     on UAS weighing 25 kg or less that do not incorporate thermal imaging.
A further
25% additional duty
 will apply to specified UAS parts and components imported for use in UAS, effective
February 9, 2027
. The covered product lists are identified in the proclamation's annexes and include relevant HTSUS classifications; importers should review both classification and end-use carefully.
The duties generally apply
in addition to other applicable duties, taxes, fees, and charges
. The proclamation provides potential lower overall duty treatment for qualifying products of the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and EU member states, subject to certification and other criteria concerning critical components and technology.
The proclamation also authorizes Commerce to add components to the tariff scope and establishes an onshoring incentive program that may provide Section 232 tariff relief to approved companies investing in new U.S. UAS manufacturing facilities. Importers should assess affected products, confirm applicable HTSUS classifications and product features - including weight, thermal-imaging capability, origin, and end use - and monitor forthcoming Commerce and CBP implementation guidance.