A Chinese Firm Is America’s Favorite Drone Maker. Except in Washington.

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the controversy surrounding DJI, a Chinese drone company that dominates the commercial and consumer drone markets in the United States. While DJI's drones are widely used by emergency responders, the U.S. government views the company as a national security threat, and is considering legislation to ban federal agencies from purchasing its products.

🙋 Q&A

[01] DJI's Dominance in the Drone Market

1. What is DJI's position in the commercial and consumer drone markets in the United States?

• DJI dominates the commercial and consumer drone markets in the United States.
• The company's drones are the tool of choice for emergency responders around the country.

2. Why is DJI considered a national security threat by the U.S. government?

• DJI is on a Defense Department list of Chinese military companies whose products the U.S. armed forces will be prohibited from purchasing in the future.
• As part of the defense budget, other federal agencies and programs are likely to be prohibited from purchasing DJI drones as well.

3. How have DJI's drones been used in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war?

• The drones, though not designed or authorized for combat use, have become ubiquitous in Russia's war against Ukraine.

[02] Rescue Operations and DJI Drones

1. How have DJI drones been used in search and rescue operations?

• DJI drones were used in a search and rescue drill in northern Utah, where they were able to locate a missing hiker and provide their coordinates to the rescue team in 19 minutes.
• The volunteer search and rescue worker operating the DJI drone stated that this was "pretty quick" for that type of environment.