DJI 'disappointed' by US move to block authorizations for foreign-made drones

SHENZHEN - Chinese drone giant DJI expressed disappointment on Tuesday regarding the US Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) decision to add foreign-made drones to the "Covered List".

Updated on Monday, the "Covered List" identifies communications equipment and services deemed to pose an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States, or the safety and security of US persons, according to the FCC.

Inclusion on the list means new models of foreign-made drones and critical components are prohibited from receiving FCC authorization, effectively banning their import and sale in the country, the FCC noted.

DJI said in a statement that while it was not singled out, no information has been released regarding what information was used by the Executive Branch in reaching its determination.

The company noted its products are among the safest and most secure on the market, citing years of reviews conducted by US government agencies and independent third parties.

Concerns about the company's data security have not been grounded in evidence and instead reflect protectionism, contrary to the principles of an open market, per the statement.

This addition follows a defense bill passed by the US Congress a year ago, which highlighted national security risks linked to Chinese drones. Under that legislation, DJI and the other Chinese drone maker Autel faced a US sales ban on new models if a security assessment deemed them to be a threat.

This action does not affect any previously-purchased drone. Consumers can continue to use any drone they have already lawfully purchased or acquired, the FCC noted.