The American drone industry is entering a new era of growth and regulation. According to industry reports, the USA market will reach $31.34 billion by the end of 2034. A major reason for this growth is the rising demand for American-made drones.
Across public safety, utilities, and infrastructure sectors, many organizations are moving away from foreign-made aircraft, especially DJI, because of national security and data privacy concerns.
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) restricts the Department of Defense (DoD) and its contractors from using drones or components sourced from “covered foreign entities”. This includes components from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.
In 2025, these rules became stricter. States like Florida, Arkansas, and Tennessee have banned Chinese-made drones for public safety and government work. As a result, many programs have had to replace old fleets with secure, approved US alternatives.
This move toward American-made drones also supports domestic innovation. American-made drones offer secure, serviceable, and high-performance platforms that meet strict standards for government and enterprise missions. They are no longer a niche choice. Today, professionals who care about data security and reliability are choosing U.S.-made drones as the standard.
In this article, we’ll explore the best American-made drones, highlighting their features and capabilities so you can make an informed choice.
Let’s first understand what exactly US-made drones are.
What Do American Made Drones Exactly Mean?
An “American-made drone” usually refers to an aircraft designed, built, and assembled in the U.S. and NDAA-approved.
In commercial and government use, the term also implies strict safety and security standards. One of the main factors is NDAA compliance. In the drone industry, this means “ensuring supply chain security.”
The NDAA prevents the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) from buying drones that fall into one of these categories:
- Drones or parts made in a covered foreign country or by a company based in that country.
- Drones that use major components such as flight controllers, radios, cameras, gimbals, ground control systems, or operating software manufactured in that covered foreign country or by a company based there.
Section 848 of the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), first identified China as the “covered foreign country.” Subsequently, in 2022, Congress expanded the definition to include Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Later, Congress made it even broader by including private companies that are based or operate under the jurisdiction of these countries.
Since October 2024, private companies have been prohibited from using DJI drones for DoD contracts.
However, drones on the Blue UAS Cleared List are exempt from the DoD’s policy exception requirement. The list includes drones that have passed strict cybersecurity and supply-chain checks by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). These drones are cleared for government use and do not require additional approvals. Importantly, approval is drone-specific, not manufacturer-specific.
The Blue sUAS 2.0 project has incorporated the following drones into the DIU Blue UAS Cleared List:
- ANAFI UKR and ANAFI USA GOV/MIL, by Parrot
- eBee Tac, by senseFly (an AgEagle company)
- WingtraOne Gen II, by Wingtra
- Spirit, by Ascent AeroSystems
- Osprey (Free Flight Version), by Easy Aerial
- Alta X – Blue Package, by Freefly Systems
- X2D and X10D, by Skydio
- Edge 130, by Flightwave
- Vector, by Quantum Systems
- IF800 and IF1200A, by Inspired Flight
Some drones made outside the U.S. can still qualify if they meet the same strict security standards. These drones are often used for public safety work, utility inspections, mapping, and other sensitive missions.
Because of these rules, many public safety departments and government agencies can no longer use their older Chinese-made fleets.
As a result, programs across the country have been replacing their fleets with secure, NDAA-compliant alternatives designed and supported by U.S. manufacturers.
For more information, check out our detailed drone guide for public safety that compares many domestically made drones.
As NDAA rules tighten, more U.S. companies are stepping up with secure and reliable drones built for public safety, inspection, and enterprise use. Let’s explore 7 of the best American-made drones in 2025.
7 Best American Made Drones
The number of American-made and NDAA-compliant drones is growing every year. To help you choose, we have curated a list of top U.S. drone models designed for longer lifespans, stronger performance, and secure operations.
Here are the top NDAA-compliant options available in the market:
- Freefly Astro Max(Blue): The Absolute Best Platform
- Parrot Anafi USA GOV/MIL: The Budget-Friendly Option
- ACSL SOTEN: The Pocket Powerhouse
- Skydio X10: The Obstacle Avoidance King
- Inspired Flight IF800 Tomcat: The M300 Look-Alike
- Teal 2: The Night-Operations Specialist
- Anduril Ghost X: The Tactical Mission Performer
Let’s take a closer look at each of these drones and discover their features, capabilities, and limitations.
1. Freefly Astro Max (NDAA/Blue UAS)
Freefly Astro Max | Source: Freefly
Company: Freefly Systems
Headquarters: Washington, USA
Founded: 2011
Website: https://freeflysystems.com/
The Freefly Astro Max is the newest and most powerful drone in the Astro series. It’s built for professionals who need a secure, high-performance platform for mapping, inspections, or enterprise work. The Astro Max offers more thrust, better payload support, and longer flight performance than earlier Astro models. It’s both NDAA-compliant and DIU Blue UAS approved, making it suitable for government and critical infrastructure missions.
The standard (non-Blue) version does not meet NDAA requirements, so pilots must choose the correct model based on their operational needs.
Key Features:
- 61 MP full-frame Sony ILX-LR1 camera
- Up to 43 minutes flight time
- RTK L1/L2 positioning for high-accuracy mapping
- LTE cloud connectivity for remote operations
- Long-range Doodle Labs RF (NDAA/DIU Blue certified)
- Pre-installed Galaxy Tab Active5 tablet
- Real-time drone and gimbal speed limits
- Advanced Pilot Pro remote
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent mapping accuracy with LR1 | Highly expensive |
| High capacity for sensors and payloads | Requires specialized batteries and accessories |
| Stable flight performance in wind | |
| Modular camera system with thermal and rangefinder options |
Price:
$28,995
2. Parrot Anafi USA GOV/MIL
Parrot Anafi USA | Source: Parrot
Company: Parrot
Headquarters: Paris, France (Built in the USA)
Founded: 1994
Website: https://www.parrot.com/
The Parrot Anafi USA GOV/MIL is a rugged, NDAA-compliant drone designed for government and public safety operations. It is lightweight, fast to deploy, and nd built to handle tough conditions.
It combines a 32× zoom dual camera with a FLIR Boson thermal sensor, allowing detailed inspection and search work.
Key Features:
- 21 MP dual cameras with 32× zoom
- FLIR Boson thermal camera
- 4K HDR video
- Up to 32 minutes of flight time
- IP53 dust and rain resistance
- AES-XTS encrypted SD card
- Operating temperature from –32°C to +50°C
- NDAA and Blue UAS compliant
| Pros | Cons |
| Strong zoom and thermal imaging | More expensive than consumer drones |
| Lightweight and easy to carry | Uses digital zoom only |
| Secure data handling | Limited creative and cinematic options |
| Rugged field design | Few third-party payload integrations |
| Works well in extreme temperatures |
Price:
Around $7,000–$14,000, depending on the GOV or MIL version.
3. ACSL SOTEN
Company: Autonomous Control Systems Laboratory Ltd. (ACSL)
Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Founded: 2013
Website: https://acsl-usa.com/ (U.S.-based subsidiary)
Developed by an ex-DJI engineer, ACSL SOTEN offers Phantom 4 Pro-level capabilities in an NDAA-compliant package.
It is compact, lightweight, and designed for mapping, inspections, and public safety missions. Its global shutter camera helps capture distortion-free imagery. It also supports multiple payloads, including thermal options, making it a flexible choice for enterprise and government users.
Key Features:
- 20MP 1-inch global shutter camera
- 4K/30fps video
- Swappable payloads (RGB, IR, EO/IR)
- Up to 25 minutes of flight time
- Compact foldable design
- AES-encrypted data handling
- NDAA and Blue UAS compliant
| Pros | Cons |
| Global shutter for accurate mapping | Limited video frame rates |
| Small and portable | Smaller ecosystem compared to U.S. manufacturers |
| Great for inspections | Not ideal for cinematic work |
| Multiple payload options | |
| Reasonable price point |
Price:
Around $14,550
4. Skydio X10
Skydio X10 | Source: Skydio
Company: Skydio, Inc.
Headquarters: San Mateo, California, USA
Founded: 2014
Website: https://www.skydio.com/
Skydio is known for its industry-leading autonomous flight systems. The X10 sets the standard for AI-powered obstacle avoidance. It’s one of the smartest autonomous drones in production as it uses advanced computer vision to navigate complex environments.
The X10 is equipped with high-resolution cameras and thermal sensors, enabling detailed imaging under a variety of conditions. This makes it a versatile tool for industries like infrastructure inspection, firefighting, and law enforcement.
Skydio also offers the X10D, a defense variant of the X10. The “D” stands for Defense, which means this drone is fully NDAA-compliant and listed on the Blue UAS Cleared List.
Key Features:
- 48MP wide camera
- 64MP zoom camera
- FLIR Boson+ thermal camera
- Up to 40 minutes of flight time
- Advanced AI obstacle avoidance
| Pros | Cons |
| Best-in-class obstacle avoidance | Expensive compared to other tactical drones |
| Strong performance in low-GPS and high-interference areas | Limited payload capacity for heavy sensors |
| Excellent thermal and night vision with Boson+ | Best for ISR, not for mapping or cinematic work |
| Good for basic mapping and inspections |
Price:
Starting at $15,934.
To explore how Skydio X10 performs in real-world conditions, watch the Skydio X10 comprehensive review video.
5. Inspired Flight IF800 Tomcat
IF800 | Source: Inspired Flight
Company: Inspired Flight Technologies, Inc.
Headquarters: San Luis Obispo, California, USA
Founded: 2017
Website: https://inspiredflight.com/
Inspired Flight is a U.S. drone manufacturer founded in 2017. The company builds high-performance drones for professional and industrial use. Their drones are known for strong payload options, long flight times, and durable designs.
The Inspired Flight IF800 Tomcat is a durable, mid-lift drone built for industrial and government applications. It is a strong choice for inspection teams, public safety departments, and mapping professionals.
It’s fully NDAA-compliant and Blue sUAS certified. With a 3 kg payload capacity and dual-battery setup, it can stay airborne for nearly an hour.
Key Features:
- Up to 54 minutes of flight time with a dual battery system
- Includes Blue Herelink ground control station
- Industrial-grade design for tough environments
- Supports Sony, Sentera, LiDAR, and other custom payloads
| Pros | Cons |
| Made in the USA | Higher price than some similar drones |
| Long flight time | Limited camera ecosystem compared to larger brands |
| Easy to deploy and transport | Not ideal for cinematic or creative filming |
| Fully NDAA-compliant | |
| Flexible payload support |
Price:
Starting at $19,950
6. Teal 2
Teal 2 | Source: Air Force Technology
Company: Teal Drones (Red Cat Holdings)
Headquarters: Salt Lake City, Utah
Founded: 2014
Website: https://tealdrones.com/
The Teal 2 is a professional drone built for night operations and tactical intelligence work. Compact and rugged, it’s designed for defense, law enforcement, and critical infrastructure missions where visibility is low and time matters.
Equipped with a FLIR Hadron 640R EO/IR sensor, the Teal 2 captures clear thermal and visual imagery even in total darkness. It’s lightweight, quick to deploy, and built to handle demanding field conditions.
Key Features:
- FLIR Hadron 640R EO/IR sensor
- Over 30 minutes of flight time
- AES-256 encrypted communication link
- Rugge and portable design
- NDAA-compliant and Blue sUAS listed
| Pros | Cons |
| Strong night and thermal imaging | Limited payload capacity |
| Lightweight and easy to carry | Not built for mapping or cinematic work |
| Secure, encrypted data handling | |
| Reliable for professional tactical use |
Price:
Mid-range (Varies by configuration)
7. Anduril Ghost / Ghost X
Anduril GhostX | Source: Anduril
Company: Anduril Industries
Headquarters: California, USA
Founded: 2017
Website: https://www.anduril.com/
The Anduril Ghost family is a series of American-made tactical drones built for military and defense missions. Ghost and Ghost X are NDAA-compliant and listed on the Blue sUAS Cleared List. They offer long endurance, modular payload options, and strong autonomous capabilities.
Using the Lattice AI system, these drones support multi-vehicle teaming and autonomous mission execution. Ghost X expands on the Ghost design, offering longer endurance and greater flexibility for field operations.
Key Features:
- Up to 1 hour flight time
- Modular EO/IR sensor options
- Lattice AI for autonomous operations and teaming
- Fully NDAA-compliant
| Pros | Cons |
| Long endurance | Designed mainly for defense operations |
| Strong AI autonomy and mission software | High cost and complex mission setup |
| Modular payload system |
Price:
Custom pricing (based on model and payload)
Here’s a side-by-side comparison table to help you quickly identify the best American-made drone for your mission.
| Drone | Price | Weight | Flight Time | Best Use Cases |
| Freefly Astro Max | $28,995 | ~6 kg | 43 minutes | Enterprise mapping & inspections |
| Parrot Anafi USA GOV/MIL | Around $7,000–$14,000, | 500–550 g | 32 minutes | Public safety / thermal ISR |
| ACSL SOTEN | $14,550 | ~1.7 Kg | 25 minutes | Mapping, inspections |
| Skydio X10 | Starting at $15,934. | ~2.11-2.16 Kg | 40 minutes | Tactical ISR / public safety |
| Inspired Flight IF800 Tomcat | Starting at $19,950 | 8.5 Kg w/ batteries | 54 minutes | Heavy payload mapping / LiDAR |
| Teal 2 | Varies | ~1.25 kg | 30+ minutes | Night operations / tactical ISR |
| Anduril Ghost | Custom | 17 Kg | Up to 60 min | Defense, ISR & force protection |
Among the 7 U.S.-made drones listed above, watch the video to discover the top drone choices:
Next, let’s explore how to choose the best American-made drone for your needs.
How to Choose the Best American-Made Drone for Your Missions
Choosing the right American-made drone starts with understanding your mission and matching it to the right platform. Here are some key points to consider before choosing.
1. Start with Compliance Needs
Decide whether you require NDAA or Blue sUAS approval.
NDAA compliance ensures your drone uses only secure, approved components.
Blue sUAS adds deeper cybersecurity testing and DoD evaluation, essential for public safety, utilities, and government missions.
If you want to learn more about leading U.S. manufacturers, check out our Top 36 Drone Companies in 2025 guide.
2. Match the Drone to Your Mission and Payloads
Choose sensors based on your task or mission.
Use thermal cameras for search and rescue, zoom lenses for inspections, and a global shutter, or LiDAR for mapping.
Also, check flight time. longer endurance suits for survey and mapping work, while shorter flights fit tactical or ISR missions.
3. Consider Autonomy, Durability, and Support
If your missions involve flying in tight or unpredictable spaces, strong autonomy and obstacle avoidance are important.
Check wind resistance, IP ratings, and temperature range for field reliability. Finally, evaluate after-sales support, training, and spare parts availability to ensure long-term success.
Quick Tip:
Choose a drone that aligns with your mission, compliance needs, and the payload requirements. Go for the platform that delivers the most capability with the least compromise.
Key Takeaway
American-made drones are advancing fast. They now provide secure, reliable, and compliant platforms for professional pilots.
Still, the list of top U.S. drones that can capture cinematic footage and deliver accurate mapping data remains small.
Most drone pilots ultimately want a portable, easy-to-use, and reliable drone. However, few US drone manufacturers have achieved that balance at a reasonable cost.
These drones are driving U.S. innovation forward, helping pilots take on higher-value missions with greater confidence.
Each drone mentioned above brings something unique to the table. Some excel in autonomy, others in flight time, sensors, or data security.
If you’re looking for a true professional platform that blends creative flexibility with enterprise-grade performance, the Freefly Astro Max stands out as the best choice.
Ready to explore more?
Here are helpful guides you can read next:
- Best Thermal Drones to Buy (2025)
- Drone Mapping Guide: Everything You Need to Know
- New Drone Laws in the USA [Updated in 2025]
- The Top 36 Drone Companies in 2025
How do you think American-made drones will impact your drone business?
Do share your thoughts in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Some Examples of American Consumer Drones?
Several American drone manufacturers offer a range of products tailored for consumer use. Prominent examples include the Skydio 2 and the GoPro Karma Quadcopter.
These drones boast features like obstacle avoidance and portability, making them excellent choices for recreational purposes.
2. Are EXO Drones Made in the United States?
No, EXO drones are not manufactured in the United States.
They are produced in collaboration with partners based in Hong Kong, while the company is legally owned, operated, and maintains warehousing within the United States.
3. Is DJI a U.S. drone company?
DJI is not an American company; it is a Chinese manufacturer known for producing drones. For a significant period, DJI held a dominant position in the U.S. drone market.
The U.S. Department of Defense and numerous American lawmakers have raised concerns about DJI being a potential national security risk.
4. Who is the number 1 drone manufacturer?
DJI holds the position of the world’s leading drone manufacturer. With a global market share exceeding 70%, DJI is renowned for its combination of top-tier quality and affordability. DJI drones cater to a diverse clientele, spanning from individual consumers to professionals and various businesses. They serve a multitude of functions, encompassing aerial photography, videography, agricultural applications, construction, and public safety.
5. What is the Most Advanced U.S. Drone?
The Astra Prime is currently the most advanced U.S.-made drone for commercial and industrial applications. It is designed for professional users, excelling in precision mapping, cinematic filming, and large-scale inspections with long flight times.
For military or defence use cases, other newer systems such as Anduril’s YFQ-44 or Shield AI’s MQ-35 V-BAT are pushing the envelope.
6. Is Parrot a U.S. company?
No, Parrot is a French company founded in 1994 by Henri Seydoux.
7. What are NDAA-compliant drones?
NDAA-compliant drones are the drones that meet the U.S. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requirements for supply chain and national security.
They avoid components from “covered” foreign entities and are eligible for government procurement. Many U.S. manufacturers self-certify compliance, making these drones suitable for public-sector and federally funded projects.
8. Can Government Agencies Use DJI Drones?
Some DJI drones are allowed for government use, but restrictions exist due to national security concerns. Agencies increasingly prefer NDAA-compliant or U.S.-made drones, and certain DJI models may be restricted in sensitive operations.
9. Why Are American-Made Drones More Expensive?
U.S.-made drones cost more because production runs are smaller, labor and manufacturing costs are higher, and NDAA or government compliance adds expense. Many also target professional or enterprise users, which drives the unit price up compared to mass-produced foreign drones.
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