Chinese drone manufacturer SZ DJI Technology Co. has filed a lawsuit against the US Department of Defense, challenging its designation as a Chinese military company. DJI, the world’s largest maker of consumer drones, had attempted for over 16 months to engage with the Pentagon to dispute the label, but these efforts were unsuccessful. The company stated that it had no choice but to seek legal action, asserting that it is neither owned nor controlled by the Chinese military. DJI emphasized that its products are for consumer and commercial use, not military purposes.
The Department of Defense’s designation of Chinese military companies is part of the National Defense Authorization Act, aimed at curbing Beijing’s access to advanced technologies that are often disguised as civilian. DJI was first added to the list in 2022, and its inclusion restricts American companies from doing business with firms on the list. Other Chinese companies, such as Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment Inc., have also taken legal action against similar accusations by the Pentagon.
