DJI, the worlds leading civilian drone manufacturer, has embraced the possibility of a US executive order that could restrict Chinese drone companies, viewing it as an opportunity to validate its security protocols.As previously reported by DroneDJ, the Trump administration is finalizing executive orders aimed at reshaping the commercial drone landscape in the US.
These measures could limit Chinese companies, notably DJI and Autel, from selling new drone models unless they pass a national security review.DJI has long advocated for evaluations based on technological merit rather than country of origin.
In a new statement to DroneDJ, a DJI spokesperson emphasizes the companys commitment to transparency:While we currently do not have additional information regarding the development of potential executive orders, DJI welcomes and embraces any opportunities to demonstrate our privacy controls and security features.The spokesperson further highlights the stipulations of Section 1709 of the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which mandates that within one year of enactment, a designated national security agency must assess whether DJIs equipment poses an unacceptable risk to US national security.
Failure to conduct this analysis would result in DJI being automatically added to the FCC Covered List, effectively barring the company from launching new products in the US market.Advertisement - scroll for more contentDJI will not be able to launch new products in the US market, not through any fault of its own, but simply because no agency undertook the study of our products.New:This awesome DJI Mini 4 Pro drone combo just got $400 cheaperDJIs proactive approach includes submitting its systems for independent audits since 2017 and implementing features that enhance user privacy.
The company asserts that there is no evidence indicating that its drones transmit sensitive data to unauthorized parties.
Independent audits by firms such as Booz Allen Hamilton and FTI Consulting, as well as evaluations by US government agencies like the Department of the Interior and Idaho National Laboratory, have found DJIs products to be secure.These audits have found that thetested products are safe, secure, and do not transmit data to China or any other unauthorized parties.In addition to welcoming the review, DJI emphasizes its commitment to user control over data.
By default, photos, flight logs, videos, and mobile data are not synced with DJI, and as of June 2024, the company no longer offers the option for US users to sync flight records to its servers.
Users can operate DJI products in Local Data Mode, ensuring no internet connection, and have the flexibility to use third-party software for flight operations and data analysis.Our customers can fly our products in Local Data Mode, which means there is no connection to the internet.
In effect, the drone becomes the equivalent of an air-gapped computer.
They can also use third-party software from the US to fly our products and analyze the data.Unlike our competitors, we do not force people to use our software.While the potential executive orders aim to bolster national security and support domestic drone manufacturers, DJI views the accelerated review process as a chance to reaffirm its commitment to security and maintain its presence in the US market.DJI has long advocated for policies based on technological merit, not country of origin.
We look forward to continuing to engage with the proper government authorities to ensure that any decisions are made based on the quality and safety of our products.More:5 DJI gifts dad will love this Fathers DayFTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links.More.