By Nebraska Department of Transportation
LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) Aeronautics Division has published a list of approved drones in compliance with the Secure Drone Purchasing Act (LB660). Under this law, NDOT Aeronautics Division must create and maintain the list in order to meet state and federal cybersecurity standards. The list is published and maintained at dot.nebraska.gov/aeronautics/drones.
Starting Jan. 1, 2027, Nebraska State Agencies are prohibited from purchasing drones that have not been evaluated by the Division and included on the list of approved platforms. Political subdivisions are to comply to the extent practicable. The initial list of approved platforms includes 50 different models from 38 manufacturers. The list will be continuously updated as additional platforms are evaluated at the request of state agencies or political subdivisions.
Drones included on the list must meet strict cybersecurity standards, such as data encryption and network security. The Secure Drone Purchasing Act is part of a broader legislative effort to enhance government procurement processes and ensure the security of the state, its businesses, and its residents.
An unmanned aircraft system (UAS), commonly referred to as a drone, includes the aircraft and all supporting equipment needed for operation. The Nebraska Department of Transportation utilizes drones to improve safety, efficiency and decision-making across the state’s transportation system by enabling safer data collection, reducing traffic disruptions and limiting staff exposure to hazardous conditions.