Drones Take Flight: From Hobbyist Toys to Lethal Weapons
After the US ban on DJI drones, US dronemakers pivot to military contracts instead of serving consumers. Exploring the changing drone landscape and implications for hobbyists.
Drones, once the domain of hobbyists and aerial photographers, have taken a dramatic turn in the United States. With the ban on DJI drones, the world's leading drone manufacturer, the American drone industry has shifted its focus from serving consumers to catering to the lucrative military market.
When the United States triggered an automatic ban on future DJI products 15 months ago, many expected other dronemakers to seize the opportunity to fill the void left by the industry giant. However, that has not been the case. Instead, US dronemakers are largely focused on a more profitable opportunity: a billion dollars the Pentagon has earmarked for drones that kill.
This shift has left drone professionals feeling uneasy, according to Vic Moss, a prominent figure in the drone industry.
Source: The Verge
