DJI Says Independent Review Found No Security Risks In Its Drones
Chinese dronemaker DJI told U.S. lawmakers on Thursday that an independent cybersecurity review found its drones pose no security risks. Meanwhile, the company urged Washington to lift restrictions on its newest products.
DJI, the world’s largest dronemaker, filed a lawsuit in February challenging a decision by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The December ruling blocked imports of DJI’s new drone models and key components into the United States.
According to a letter seen by Reuters, DJI commissioned a U.S.-based cybersecurity firm to assess its products. The review reportedly found “no evidence of data transmission outside the United States”.
Cybersecurity Review Findings
The independent assessment also found no “backdoors or unauthorized remote access mechanisms” in DJI drones. In addition, investigators detected no “unexplained radio frequency emissions”.
However, the review identified several low and very low-risk issues. DJI stated that none of the findings created a realistic threat to safe drone operation or widespread data exposure. The company also said it had already begun implementing mitigation measures to address those concerns.
DJI stressed that the findings reinforced the safety and reliability of its products in the U.S. market. The company noted that it sells more than half of all commercial drones used in the United States.
U.S. Security Concerns Over Chinese Drones
Despite the review’s conclusions, many U.S. lawmakers continue to argue that Chinese-made drones present national security risks.
As a result, the FCC decision prevents DJI, Autel and other Chinese drone manufacturers from obtaining approval to sell new drone models or critical components in the United States. Existing products, however, can still be sold.
In its letter, DJI argued that the restrictions unfairly impact American users. The company said “U.S. businesses, law enforcement, farmers, hobbyists, and countless others are being asked to forgo a product that has been proven safe time and time again.”
Washington Expands Pressure On Chinese Drone Makers
The FCC move marked another escalation in Washington’s broader campaign to curb Chinese-made drone technology. Although the December order blocked imports of new foreign-made drone models and components, some non-Chinese drone manufacturers have since secured approval.
Meanwhile, DJI continues to face legal and political pressure in the United States. In September, a judge rejected the company’s effort to be removed from a U.S. Defense Department list of firms allegedly linked to China’s military.
At the same time, the FCC is working to strengthen the domestic U.S. drone manufacturing industry. The agency is also considering allocating additional spectrum for drone operators.
With inputs from Reuters