Drone and Polysilicon Imports the Target of New National Security Probes

U.S. Commerce Department probes focus on foreign supply chains, pricing and production risks.

The logo of the U.S. Department of Commerce is seen in Washington on March 13, 2025. Ken Cedeno/Reuters

New national security investigations have been opened into the import of drones and drone components, and polysilicon and its derivatives, which are used in making solar panels and semiconductors, the U.S. Commerce Department announced on Monday.

The probes were opened by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on July 1 under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, posted on the Federal Register by the department’s Bureau of Industry and Security.