DJI Responds to Accusations of Skirting U.S. Bans With Drone Clones

The Chinese manufacturer has been linked to other companies that appear to be selling identical products.

Friday, August 30, 2024 at 10:00 AM ET

Verified

DJI’s Mavic 3 is one of the most popular camera drones in the world and has a sizable user base in the U.S. [Courtesy: DJI]

Key Takeaways:

China's DJI is accused by U.S. lawmakers of using a Texas-based company, Anzu, and a unique licensing agreement to sell "clone" drones and circumvent federal bans imposed on DJI due to national security concerns.
Lawmakers cite product similarities between Anzu's Raptor T and DJI's Mavic 3, contradictory statements from Anzu's CEO (a former DJI employee), and an initial lack of disclosure regarding their relationship as evidence of an attempt to skirt U.S. restrictions.
DJI denies these accusations, stating the arrangement with Anzu is a standard, legal licensing agreement allowing Anzu to use and modify DJI's hardware and software, and that Anzu is responsible for its own product manufacturing (in Malaysia), updates, and data policies.
DJI also refutes claims of being a "Chinese military company" or receiving undue government funding, emphasizing its products are for peaceful purposes and it has actively discouraged their use in combat.

See a mistake? Contact us.

China’s DJI, the world’s largest manufacturer and seller of consumer drones, is firing back against accusations that it is selling “clones” of its products through separate companies in order to skirt U.S. federal bans.

The firm on Thursday published a blog post characterizing U.S. representatives’ portrayal of its relationship with Anzu, a Texas-based company selling drones that are eerily similar to DJI’s Mavic 3, as inaccurate. At the center of the controversy is a unique licensing agreement that the companies say gives Anzu access to DJI’s hardware and software—considered some of the best in the industry—essentially for free. Lawmakers believe the arrangement is fishy.

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.