China sanctions US drone maker Skydio over Taiwan sales
China has imposed sanctions on Skydio, the largest US drone maker, for supplying drones to Taiwan's national fire service. Skydio CEO Adam Bry confirmed the sanctions, which have forced the company to seek new battery suppliers after relying on a single Chinese source. Skydio has a limited stock of batteries, which may lead to rationing until new suppliers are available in spring 2025. Future shipments of the X10 drone will include only one battery for now. The sanctions may also be linked to Skydio's competition with Chinese firm DJI. The US government views the sanctions as part of a broader trade conflict. DJI is facing scrutiny from US authorities, including a recent lawsuit against the Department of Defense over its designation as a "Chinese military company."