Alert of a ‘swarm’ of Chinese drones: US has them on its blacklist

Drones are often linked to military operations, but their use extends far beyond the battlefield. They play a critical role in environmental monitoring, infrastructure inspections, and surveillance. Many nations, including Denmark, rely on imported drone technology—often from China, the world’s manufacturing powerhouse.

A recent investigation by Danish television network TV 2 reveals that at least 71 municipalities in Denmark have purchased drones manufactured by Da Jiang Innovations (DJI), a Chinese company that dominates the global commercial drone market. The country now operates 223 DJI drones, despite the firm being blacklisted by US authorities.

Why is DJI blacklisted by the US?

DJI, headquartered in Shenzhen, produces over 70% of the world’s commercial drones, offering them at highly competitive prices. However, the FBI and the US Department of Defense have raised red flags over the potential security risks associated with DJI’s products and other drone manufacturers from China. According to a threat assessment, US authorities believe these drones could transmit sensitive data to the Chinese government.

“The use of Chinese-manufactured [Unmanned Aircraft Systems] risks exposing sensitive information that jeopardizes U.S. national security, economic security, and public health and safety,” warned CISA and the FBI. “The use of Chinese-manufactured UAS in critical infrastructure operations risks exposing sensitive information to PRC authorities.”

As a result, the US government has banned DJI drones across all federal agencies, urging its allies to reconsider their use.

Denmark ignores US warnings—why?

Despite the security concerns, Danish authorities and law enforcement agencies continue to use DJI drones. The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) has acknowledged their widespread adoption by the military, police, and government agencies.

According to Danish international relations expert Andreas Bøje Forsby, the reason is straightforward: DJI drones are more affordable and technologically superior to alternatives.

“Municipalities choose DJI because there isn’t a truly viable alternative in the market. As long as they aren’t used for collecting sensitive data, most officials don’t see a problem,” Forsby explained.

Is Denmark considering new regulations on Chinese drones?

While Denmark has not imposed restrictions on DJI drones, there are signs of a shift. Torsten Schack Pedersen, Denmark’s Minister of Public Security and Emergency Preparedness, has urged authorities and businesses to be cautious when using Chinese drones.

Additionally, the Danish Ministry of Trade and Industry is reportedly exploring cybersecurity regulations for drone purchases. Potential measures include data storage requirements to mitigate the risks of unauthorized access to sensitive information.

DJI’s response: “We are a private company”

DJI has consistently denied allegations of government influence, insisting that it is a privately owned company.

“DJI has been privately owned and controlled since its founding in 2006. The company’s founder oversees operations, and no government entity or representative has any role in its board or decision-making,” DJI stated in a press release.

However, concerns persist due to China’s legal framework. The 2017 Chinese Intelligence Law compels companies to share information with the government if requested, citing national security. In 2021, Beijing also introduced strict data protection laws, restricting the flow of Chinese data overseas while imposing severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for non-compliance.

A new Cold War in cybersecurity?

As global tensions over cyberespionage mount, China, the US, and Europe are reinforcing digital security measures. While some nations move to limit their reliance on Chinese technology, Denmark remains caught between economic pragmatism and mounting geopolitical pressure.

For now, DJI drones continue to fly across Danish skies—efficient, cost-effective, and at the center of an ongoing international security debate.

Original article written by Diego Delgado, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Greg Heilman.

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