Ensuring Government Use of Secure Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Supporting United States Producers

OMB Memorandum M-26-02 establishes federal policy for the secure procurement and use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The guidance highlights risks associated with foreign-manufactured drones, including data breaches, surveillance, and supply chain vulnerabilities. Agencies are directed to adopt risk-based security controls, conduct impact assessments, and implement safeguards to protect federal information across the UAS lifecycle. The memo also emphasizes strengthening domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on adversarial technologies. It provides detailed requirements for procurement, grants, and operational security, including encryption, access controls, and compliance with federal cybersecurity standards.