Navigating Domestic Manufacturing, Chinese Imports, and Integration Programs in a New Era With Donald Trump set to take the White House in January 2025, the U.S. drone industry faces a future shaped by his longstanding approach toward China, manufacturing, and industry innovation. As legislators on both sides weigh a potential ban on Chinese-made drones, the industry is … [Read more...] about What Trump’s Presidency Could Mean for the Drone Industry
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What Kind of Drones is Ukraine Buying?
The Diverse Range of Drones Supports Tactical and Strategic Needs on the Battlefield Ukraine's Ministry of Defense is building a robust drone fleet as it modernizes and expands support for its Armed Forces. From reconnaissance to targeted strikes, Ukraine’s diverse mix of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) highlights the crucial role drones play in both military and civil … [Read more...] about What Kind of Drones is Ukraine Buying?
Skydio Responds to Chinese Sanctions with Temporary Battery Rationing for Drone Customers
U.S. Manufacturer Plans to Bolster Supply Chain Amid Ongoing Industry Tensions In response to recently announced Chinese sanctions against them, U.S.-based drone manufacturer Skydio informed its customers of a plan to ration battery supplies temporarily. The sanctions, which affect Skydio’s ability to source batteries, stem from the company’s sale of drones to Taiwan’s … [Read more...] about Skydio Responds to Chinese Sanctions with Temporary Battery Rationing for Drone Customers
Drones Aid Disaster Recovery: Mapping and Photogrammetry Support Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
Drone mapping, photogrammetry aid recovery in wake of Helene devastation By DRONELIFE Features Editor Jim Magill (Part of a series on the drone community’s response to natural disasters) Hurricane Helene, the massive and deadly storm that tore through a large swath of the U.S. Southeast in late September, triggered a tremendous response from the drone-flying community, as … [Read more...] about Drones Aid Disaster Recovery: Mapping and Photogrammetry Support Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
What We Know About the DJI Customs Issue
On October 16, 2024, Reuters reported that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is blocking the import of some DJI drones, citing the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). DJI, the world’s largest drone manufacturer, controls over half of the U.S. drone market, making the news of a DJI customs ban significant for the industry. This report is based on a leaked letter … [Read more...] about What We Know About the DJI Customs Issue