The Oversight Subcommittee on Homeland Security and Foreign Influence convened on May 21, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding drone technology and national security. The meeting focused on the risks associated with the use of drones manufactured by foreign adversaries, particularly those from China, and the implications for public safety and infrastructure.

The session began with a discussion on the vulnerabilities inherent in drone hardware, emphasizing that even the most secure software cannot protect against compromised physical components. The speaker highlighted China's 2017 National Intelligence Law, which mandates that Chinese companies cooperate with government intelligence efforts, raising concerns about the security of drones' hardware supply chains. This legal framework makes it difficult to ensure that drones used in the U.S. are free from foreign influence.

The conversation then shifted to the risks posed by firmware, the low-level software that interacts directly with hardware. It was noted that vulnerabilities in firmware can remain undetected until exploited, posing long-term threats to national security. The speaker warned that reliance on Chinese drones could expose sensitive operational data to foreign adversaries, with the potential for significant consequences.

Legislative measures were discussed as a response to these risks. The American Security Drone Act, a bipartisan initiative, aims to halt the procurement of adversary drones with federal funds. Additionally, the National Defense Authorization Act includes provisions that could lead to the banning of certain foreign drones from operating in the U.S. if deemed a national security risk.

The meeting also highlighted state-level actions, such as North Dakota's initiative to replace state-owned drones with American-made alternatives, reflecting a proactive approach to mitigating security risks. The state's decision was driven by a desire to secure communication networks and avoid supporting adversarial entities.

In conclusion, the subcommittee underscored the urgent need for policies that prioritize the use of trusted drone technology. The reliance on foreign-manufactured drones poses unacceptable risks to public safety and national security, necessitating a shift towards domestic production and innovation in the drone industry. The meeting concluded with a call to action for policymakers to support U.S. manufacturers and ensure the security of critical operations.