The special relationship and traditionally skintight closeness on security matters between both countries notwithstanding, the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) is buying DJI drones that the US government has blacklisted on data security concerns.

Word the MoD was gearing up with DJI drones was first reported by The Telegraph, which noted the craft have been on lists banning US government agencies from using them since 2020. That prohibition was based on claims the company’s UAVs had aided the Chinese government’s repression of minority Uighurs by China’s government, and allegations their tech can be used to leak sensitive operator data to Beijing. DJI has denied both accusations.

British defense officials apparently either believe DJI’s contention, or don’t consider the accusations grounds for shunning the company. Recently published contracts signed in March indicate the MoD is precuring over $165,000 worth of DJI Matrice 300 RTK drones, as well as…

More…

Source: dronedj.com