US UAV maker outlines damage caused by China embargo

US drone maker Skydio says China's embargo will disrupt its supply chain for months.

China's foreign ministry announced sanctions against Skydio, two other defense companies and 10 individuals this month, after the US approved $567 million in defense aid to Taiwan, AFP reported today, October 31.

A Skydio UAV model

Photo: Skydio screenshot

Skydio said on October 30 that the Chinese embargo was "due to selling drones to Taiwan, where our only customer right now is the Taiwan Fire Department."

But Skydio argues that China is also looking to advantage its companies and advance Beijing's interests.

“This is a clarifying moment for the drone industry. If there was ever any doubt, this action makes it clear that the Chinese government will use the supply chain as a weapon to advance their interests above ours,” Skydio CEO Adam Bry said in a message on the company’s website.

“This is an attempt to eliminate America’s leading drone company and deepen the world ’s dependence on Chinese drone suppliers,” added Mr. Bry, who is among those sanctioned by China.

Due to the Chinese embargo, Mr. Bry said that Skydio's supply of UAV batteries will be cut off for several months, as the company sources this important component from China.

“We were targeted because we are the largest drone company outside of China and because we serve important customers who contribute to our national security,” Mr. Bry said.

There is no information yet on China's reaction to Mr. Bry's statement.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nha-san-xuat-uav-my-neu-thiet-hai-do-lenh-cam-van-tu-trung-quoc-185241031193158322.htm