DJI Urges US Congress to Complete Security Review Before December 23 Deadline

Chinese drone manufacturer DJI, which accounts for more than half of US commercial drones, has urged Congress and the Trump administration to complete a mandated security review or extend the upcoming December 23 deadline. 

A report by Reuters cited a letter where the company warned that missing the deadline could prevent it from offering new drone models in the US, potentially affecting state and local law enforcement and emergency response programs that rely heavily on its technology.

The review stems from legislation passed last year, requiring a security audit of DJI before late December. 

According to DJI, failure to complete the review could destabilize a critical sector, affecting innovation, jobs, and public safety. 

In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, the company highlighted the potential risks to American programs, noting that more than 80% of state and local agencies operating drones use DJI technology.

DJI’s Communications with Government Agencies

In addition to reaching out to Congress, DJI contacted Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, urging the department to prioritize the security audit immediately. 

The company emphasized that the results of the review will determine whether agencies can continue using DJI drones for public safety, law enforcement, and emergency response programs. Without access to DJI equipment, DJI says many programs would be forced to find costlier alternatives.

Discussions around DJI’s status have been part of broader legislative talks, including considerations tied to the annual defense bill. The company has repeatedly highlighted that a ban on new drones could have practical implications for government programs and private operators alike.

Legal Challenges and Previous Rulings

DJI’s situation in the United States is further complicated by ongoing legal disputes. 

In September, a US judge rejected the company’s request to be removed from the Defense Department’s list of companies allegedly connected to Beijing’s military. DJI argued that this designation was “unlawful and misguided,” and said it has led to lost business deals, stigmatization as a national security threat, and bans on contracts with federal agencies.

In a related case, Chinese surveillance company Hikvision filed a lawsuit challenging the FCC’s decision to block new approvals for devices containing components from companies on its Covered List. The case raises broader questions about how federal agencies regulate foreign technology and how existing approvals may be affected in certain circumstances. 

DJI’s own communications suggest the company views timely completion of the security review as crucial to continuing its operations in the United States without disruption.

Implications for the Drone Industry

The outcome of DJI’s security review and legal challenges has implications beyond the company itself. 

With DJI controlling a significant portion of the US commercial drone market, delays or restrictions could affect public safety operations, commercial deliveries, and the growing recreational drone sector. 

Agencies that have standardized on DJI technology may face costs in retraining staff, purchasing new equipment, and adjusting operational procedures if the company is barred from selling new models.

How quickly lawmakers and regulators act will determine not only DJI’s market access but also how state and local programs plan for the next year.

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