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New Rival To DJI?   Skydio, the US-based autonomous drone manufacturer, has recently announced the establishment of a National Security Advisory Board. This development aims to enhance its strategic capabilities in delivering advanced drone solutions to the Department of Defense and allied military forces. The timing of this announcement is particularly notable, coinciding with the potential ban on Chinese drone maker DJI in the US due to rising data security concerns. Key Members of Skydio’s National Security Advisory Board The advisory board comprises a distinguished group of national security experts, each bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to Skydio’s mission. The board includes: General (US Army Ret.) Austin ‘Scott’ Miller: A highly respected combat leader with nearly 40 years of military service. General Miller commanded the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) and led US and NATO forces in Afghanistan. He is also recognized for his role in integrating women in...

As drone enthusiasts and industry watchers hold their breath over a potential ban on DJI drones in the U.S., it appears the renowned drone manufacturer may already be devising ways to sidestep the restrictions.      The introduction of the SPECTA and SPECTA Mini by Hong Kong-based Cogito Tech Company Limited has raised eyebrows, with many speculating these drones are DJI clones designed to circumvent the impending ban. The Background: A Ban on the Horizon Earlier this month, there were reports of a similar strategy employed by Anzu Robotics, which licensed DJI's Mavic 3E to create the Raptor. This maneuver was seen as a potential loophole to maintain DJI's presence in the U.S. market even if a ban were implemented. The latest development involves Cogito Tech Company Limited's SPECTA and SPECTA Mini, which were first reported by The Hill as suspiciously similar to DJI's popular consumer drones. FCC Approval and Speculation Cogito's drones have received FCC approval, ...