DJI Presses U.S. to Conclude Security Review Amid Looming Deadline
Chinese drone manufacturer DJI has urged the U.S. Congress and the Trump administration to swiftly complete a mandated security review or extend the approaching 23 December deadline. The appeal comes as the company faces potential inclusion on the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Covered List—a move that could effectively bar it from introducing new drone models in the American market.
Call for Immediate Action from Lawmakers
DJI, which accounts for over half of all commercial drone sales in the United States, sent a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson on Thursday. The company warned that delays in completing the review could destabilise the industry and harm both public and private interests.
“Failure to complete this congressionally mandated audit on time threatens to destabilise a critical sector, putting American innovation, jobs, livelihoods, and public safety at risk,” the company wrote.
In a separate letter earlier this week, DJI also appealed to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, urging immediate action to commence the review process. The company emphasised the widespread use of its drones by law enforcement and emergency agencies across the country.
Public Safety and Industry Implications
According to DJI, more than 80% of the 1,800-plus state and local law enforcement and emergency response agencies in the United States rely on its drone technology. The firm warned that these operations could be jeopardised if they lose access to what it describes as the most cost-effective and efficient drones available.
Neither the Department of Homeland Security nor Speaker Johnson’s office provided immediate comment. Meanwhile, discussions over DJI’s future in the United States have intensified amid negotiations on a key annual defence bill.
Broader Context of Security Scrutiny
The situation unfolds as several Chinese technology companies face similar challenges. On Wednesday, Chinese manufacturer Hikvision filed a lawsuit in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, contesting the FCC’s decision to block new approvals for equipment containing components from firms on the Covered List.
In a related development, a U.S. judge in September rejected DJI’s attempt to be removed from the Department of Defense list of entities allegedly linked to China’s military. DJI described the department’s action as “unlawful and misguided,” claiming it had suffered reputational damage, lost business deals, and been excluded from federal contracts as a result.
with inputs from Reuters
