DJI Drones Help Rescue Missing Hiker as U.S. Agencies Weigh National Security Concerns
Drones aid in finding missing hikers quickly, but concerns about national security have led to restrictions on purchasing DJI's products.
In a recent operation in northern Utah, drones played a crucial role in the search for a missing hiker, providing real-time video to the search team. The drones swiftly located the hiker's coordinates, significantly expediting the rescue process.
Kyle Nordfors, a volunteer search and rescue worker, highlighted the efficiency of using drones in such challenging terrains. He operated a drone manufactured by the leading Chinese company DJI, which holds a significant market share in the United States, catering to both law enforcement agencies and hobbyists.
National Security Concerns
Despite their effectiveness in search and rescue operations, DJI drones have raised concerns in Washington regarding national security. The company has been included on a Defense Department list of Chinese military companies, leading to a ban on future purchases of its products by the U.S. armed forces. This prohibition is likely to extend to other federal agencies and programs as well, as stipulated in the recent defense budget passed by Congress.
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