Us Launches Nationwide Probe Into Chinese Drones Amid National Security Concerns

The US Department of Commerce has launched a national security risk investigation into information and communication technology associated with drones from China and other nations. The investigation aims to safeguard the supply chain for unmanned aircraft systems, or drones.

China’s Ministry of Commerce has denounced the US actions as “extremely irresponsible,” accusing Washington of unjustly targeting foreign drones without concrete evidence. The ministry has expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the US investigation, urging respect for objective facts and an immediate cessation of what it deems wrongful practices.

The US government’s scrutiny of Chinese drone manufacturers, particularly industry leader DJI, has intensified in recent years. In December 2020, DJI was added to the US Department of Commerce’s Entity List, restricting its access to American technologies. Subsequent measures have included investment bans and designations as a “Chinese Military Company,” which DJI has contested through legal action.

The US Department of Defense has expressed concerns that Chinese-made drones could be exploited for espionage or cyberattacks, given their potential access to sensitive data. These apprehensions have led to legislative efforts aimed at restricting or banning the use of Chinese drones within the US.

China argues that such measures not only undermine global trade norms but also adversely affect American consumers and businesses that rely on Chinese drone technology. Last week, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning accused the US of overextending the concept of national security and abusing state power to suppress foreign industries.

As the March 4 deadline for public comments approaches, stakeholders from various sectors are expected to weigh in on the proposed US regulations. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for the future of drone technology and international trade relations between the world’s two largest economies.

The proposed regulations would require companies to report potential security risks associated with their products, applying to all drones regardless of country of origin. China has warned that such actions could disrupt global industrial and supply chains, harming the legitimate rights and interests of consumers worldwide, including those in the United States.

DJI has contested these designations through legal action, arguing that they are unjustified and violate international law. The company has also stated that it is committed to complying with all applicable laws and regulations, including those related to national security.

The investigation into Chinese-made drones has been sparked by concerns over the potential for espionage or cyberattacks using these devices. The US government has introduced legislative efforts aimed at restricting or banning the use of Chinese drones within the US. These measures have been met with opposition from China, which argues that they undermine global trade norms and unfairly target foreign industries.

Stakeholders are expected to weigh in on the proposed regulations as the situation continues to unfold. The outcome could have significant implications for drone technology and international trade relations between the world’s two largest economies.