North Dakota Senate Rejects Chinese Drone Proposal Amid Rising National Security Concerns Over Foreign Technology

North Dakota Senate Makes Key Decision on Drone Replacement Amidst Tensions Over Chinese Involvement

The North Dakota Senate has voted to scrap a $15 million program to replace drones with Chinese-made alternatives, citing significant cost differences between current equipment and American-made alternatives. The decision comes amidst growing concerns over the potential risks of using foreign technology in critical infrastructure roles.

Senator Kyle Davison (R-Fargo) successfully led a motion to remove this provision from House Bill 1038, pointing out that DJI Matrice 30 drones currently used by state agencies cost around $7,500, while NDAA-compliant alternatives from manufacturers like Teal and Skydio range between $20,000 and $50,000. This raises questions about the value of supporting domestic production in the face of growing competition from Chinese companies.

The preserved $11 million allocation for expanding the state’s beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone network is a significant win for North Dakota’s participation in the FAA Radar Data Pathfinder Program. This funding will help integrate federal radar data through the Northern Plains UAS Test Site, expanding coverage from 3,000 to 56,000 square miles.

The decision has sparked debate over security concerns and operational practicality. Federal agencies like the FBI, Department of Defense, and Homeland Security have warned about potential data security risks associated with Chinese-manufactured drones. While some audits have found no evidence of unauthorized data transmission when using DJI’s Local Data Mode, these findings only add to the complexity of the issue.

The Vantis network expansion builds on the FAA’s September 2024 Letter of Acceptance recognizing the system as a safety mitigator for BVLOS operations. This designation allows drone operators to reference the network in waiver applications for extended flight operations, paving the way for more efficient and secure drone usage.

By maintaining crucial funding for integrating FAA radar data into the Vantis network, North Dakota is positioning itself as a leader in the adoption of this technology. The bill’s return to the House for final consideration leaves many questions unanswered, but one thing is clear: the decision has significant implications for the future of drone technology and national security.

Industry observers note that the replacement debate may resurface if pending federal regulations further restrict Chinese drone usage in critical infrastructure roles. For now, state agencies will continue operating their existing drone fleets while implementing security protocols. As the debate continues to unfold, one thing is certain: North Dakota’s decision has set a precedent for other states to follow in its footsteps.

The Northern Plains UAS Test Site has long been recognized as a hub for innovation and research in the drone industry. Its participation in the FAA Radar Data Pathfinder Program underscores the importance of collaboration between government agencies, industry partners, and academia. FTI Consulting’s 2024 Review of DJI’s Local Data Mode found no evidence of unauthorized data transmission, but these findings only add to the complexity of the issue.

As the drone industry continues to evolve, it is clear that national security concerns will play a significant role in shaping its future. With North Dakota’s decision serving as a catalyst, expect ongoing debates and discussions about the role of foreign technology in critical infrastructure roles.