US Government May Ban DJI Drones Over LiDAR Sensor Classification

Several DJI drone models, currently legal in the US, face potential removal from shelves as the FCC may classify their LiDAR collision sensors as "military tech." This classification, if enacted by January 30, 2027, would prevent retailers from selling existing stock, though owned drones would remain authorized. DJI asserts it does not produce military-grade equipment and opposes drone weaponization, noting the FCC's broad definition could affect many civilian drones. The underlying reason is believed to be a trade war with China, aiming to foster a domestic US industry, with photographers and creators being collateral damage.