Just a few years ago, most FPV pilots and drone builders wouldn’t think twice about buying gear from top Chinese manufacturers. Affordable, reliable, and readily available. But in 2025, that landscape has changed dramatically—and fast.
It’s not just government contractors making the switch. Thanks to skyrocketing tariffs (up to 170%) on Chinese drone components and shipping bans like Hongkong Post suspending U.S.-bound parcels, sourcing parts from overseas has become a costly headache.
That’s why NDAA-compliant drone parts—once reserved for defense and public safety—are now the go-to choice for hobbyists, racers, and everyday FPV pilots. Here’s why this shift is happening and how you can take advantage of it.
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes a provision that restricts U.S. federal agencies from using drone components made by certain foreign manufacturers, particularly those from China.
NDAA-compliant parts are:
- Made or assembled in the U.S. or allied countries
- Free from restricted Chinese electronics or subassemblies
- Approved for use in government, military, and public safety applications
While private users aren’t required to follow these guidelines, there’s a growing incentive to do so anyway.
Tariffs and Supply Disruptions Are Driving the Shift
In early 2025, the U.S. dramatically escalated trade restrictions on Chinese drone hardware:
- A new 125% tariff was added to existing import fees
- The $800 de minimis import exemption was revoked for drone gear
- RF components made in China are now under intense scrutiny
Add in the halt of mail shipments from Hong Kong to the U.S., and the cost and availability of Chinese drone parts has spiraled out of control.
That’s why NDAA-compliant gear is no longer just for government jobs—it’s the smart, stable, and accessible alternative for all drone users.
Top NDAA-Compliant Drone Components in 2025
Here’s a look at the top-tier NDAA-compliant gear hobbyists and pros alike are turning to:
| Component Type | Model/Brand | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Controller | Lucid H7, BrainFPV Radix 2 H7 | STM32 MCUs, U.S.-assembled, NDAA-safe sensors |
| ESC | Lucid 60A 4-in-1 AM32, Lucid 90A 12S ESC | AM32 firmware, reliable U.S. sourcing |
| VTX | Lumenier Unify Pro32 DP | Wide voltage input, MMCX, assembled outside China |
| Radio Transmitter | TBS Crossfire MicroTX V2, Tango 2 | Long range, FCC-compliant, NDAA-labeled |
| Radio Receiver | TBS Crossfire Nano RX, Diversity Nano RX | Small, telemetry-ready, CRSF protocol |
| GPS Module | Lumenier SAM-M10Q | High-accuracy GPS, NDAA-compliant |
| Remote ID Module | Lumenier RID | Required for compliance, NDAA-ready |
| Camera (Optional) | Caddx Walnut or vetted micro cams | Confirm origin; some models assembled outside China |
| Frame | U.S.-sourced carbon fiber 5″ or 7″ frame | Domestic CNC options widely available |
Click Here To See All NDAA Compliant Drones + Drone Parts
- Flight Controllers: Lucid H7, BrainFPV Radix 2 H7
- ESCs: Lucid 60A 4-in-1 AM32, Lucid 90A 12S ESC
- VTXs: Lumenier Unify Pro32 DP
- Radio Systems: TBS Crossfire MicroTX V2, Nano RX, Tango 2
- GPS Modules: Lumenier SAM-M10Q
- Remote ID: Lumenier RID module
These components aren’t just NDAA-friendly—they’re often better supported and more consistent in quality than low-cost imports.
Watch Out: These Parts May No Longer Be Worth It
Some gear that used to be FPV staples is now either non-compliant, overpriced due to tariffs, or flat-out unavailable:
- Fusion Video RX modules (contain Chinese RF components)
- DJI FPV components, including Air Units and Vista systems
- AliExpress ESCs and VTXs with unknown origin chips
If you’re not 100% sure where a component was made, it’s safer to stick with trusted brands like TBS, Lumenier, CubePilot, and BrainFPV.
A Sample NDAA-Compliant FPV Build for 2025
Want to build a quad that’s reliable, high-performance, and free from supply chain chaos?
Here’s a full parts list:
- Frame: U.S.-sourced 5″ or 7″ carbon frame
- Flight Controller: Lucid H7
- ESC: Lucid 60A 4-in-1 AM32
- VTX: Lumenier Pro32
- Receiver & Transmitter: TBS Crossfire Nano RX + MicroTX V2
- Camera: Caddx Walnut or NDAA-safe micro cam
- GPS: SAM-M10Q
- Remote ID: Lumenier RID
This build won’t just fly great—it’ll also keep you ahead of regulation changes and pricing volatility.
Conclusion: The Smart Move for Builders in 2025
Even if you’re not a government contractor, NDAA-compliant drone parts have become the smart play:
- No exposure to rising tariffs or import bans
- Stable, trusted supply chains
- Better resale value and long-term support
As the FPV world adapts to global trade changes, one thing is clear: NDAA-compliant gear is no longer niche. It’s the mainstream choice for smart pilots who want to fly without limits.