DIU Sounds the Alarm: Securing Public Safety Drone Supply Chains

Public safety agencies across the U.S. increasingly rely on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, for critical operations. These versatile tools assist with search and rescue, fire response, disaster assessment, and more. However, recent events raise concerns about potential vulnerabilities in the supply chains for this technology.

A Case Study in Disruption:

The recent Chinese sanctions on Skydio, a major US drone manufacturer, serve as a cautionary tale. Skydio's reliance on a Chinese subsidiary for batteries left them scrambling after sanctions disrupted supply. This incident underscores the potential risks associated with dependence on foreign-sourced drone components.