DJI is a global leader in the production of drones, filed a lawsuit against the US Department of Defense. The manufacturer disputes its inclusion in the list of «Chinese military companies» the Pentagon.
In the statement of claim, DJI emphasizes its status as a private company that is not owned or controlled by the Chinese military. The manufacturer emphasizes that their drones are widely used by rescuers, firefighters, police, businesses, and hobbyists.
The «national security threat» status caused DJI significant financial and reputational damage. The company lost contracts with American and international clients. In addition, it was banned from entering into agreements with US federal agencies.
DJI tried to resolve the issue with the Pentagon for over 16 months. In July 2023, the company filed a comprehensive petition to be removed from the list. However, the Department of Defense, according to DJI, did not provide adequate explanations for its decision.
In the lawsuit, DJI claims that the Pentagon’s arguments are unfounded. The company accuses the department of confusing Chinese names and using outdated data. DJI is demanding that the Defense Department’s actions be recognized as unconstitutional and a violation of its rights.
This is not the first time DJI has been subject to US restrictions. In 2020, the Department of Commerce contributed the company to the «blacklist», limiting the supply of American components. The following year, the Treasury Department accused DJI of involvement in surveillance of Uighurs in China. Recently, US Customs detained the company’s new consumer drones, citing the law on forced labor of Uighurs.
Source: Engadget