Recent photos shared on X/Twitter reveal a unit of the Chinese People’s Armed Police (PAP) Heilongjiang Corps training with DJI Mavic 3 drones outfitted with release mechanisms for dropping grenades or explosives. This development follows our earlier report on a Chinese military unit training with a DJI Avata FPV drone, despite DJI’s claims that their products are not intended for military use.
Military Unit Trains with Modified DJI Drones
The photos, accompanied by a translated statement from a military report, show soldiers from a detachment of the PAP Heilongjiang Corps demonstrating “unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) grenade bombing combat methods” to other members of the unit. The DJI Mavic 3 drones used in the training session appear to be equipped with release mechanisms designed to drop grenades or other explosives.
Gao Zhikang, presumably a member of the unit, is quoted as saying, “Our unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) combat methods are also becoming increasingly rich and perfected.” This statement suggests that the Chinese military is actively developing and refining their drone warfare capabilities.
DJI’s Stance on Military Use of Their Products
In November 2022, DJI released an official statement claiming that their products are not intended for military use. The Chinese drone manufacturer asserted that they have never designed or manufactured military-grade equipment, marketed or sold their products for combat use in any country, and take active steps to prevent their drones from being modified for use as weapons.
DJI emphasized their commitment to these principles, stating that they have never pursued research or development into technology that could cause harm, and have refused to customize or enable modifications that would allow their products to be used for active combat.
Implications and Concerns
The recent photos of Chinese military units training with modified DJI drones raise concerns about the potential misuse of civilian Drone Technology for military purposes. Despite DJI’s clear stance against the combat use of their products, it appears that their drones are being adapted for aerial bombardment by the Chinese military.
This development highlights the challenges faced by drone manufacturers in controlling the end-use of their products once they leave their control. It also underscores the need for increased scrutiny and regulation of the sale and modification of civilian drones to prevent their use in combat situations.
Final Thoughts
The images of a Chinese military unit training with DJI Mavic 3 drones equipped for aerial bombardment serve as a stark reminder of the potential for civilian drone technology to be adapted for military purposes. While DJI has been vocal about their opposition to the combat use of their products, the reality on the ground suggests that their drones are being modified and used in ways that contradict the company’s stated principles.
As the development of drone technology continues to advance, it is crucial for manufacturers, governments, and international organizations to work together to establish and enforce clear guidelines and regulations to prevent the misuse of civilian drones in military conflicts.
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