Two Democratic U.S. senators have asked Hensel Phelps, Brasfield & Gorrie and Bechtel to disclose their use of Chinese-made DJI drones on government contracts and at sensitive facilities. The letters warn that DJI devices are viewed as a national security risk and are prohibited for federal use. Senators sought details on past use, safeguards and whether drones operated at sites with classified or sensitive information. The companies did not immediately respond.
Senators Demand Construction Firms Disclose Use Of DJI Drones Over National Security Concerns
A DJI Phantom 4 Pro+ drone is shown during the 2017 CES in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S., January 6, 2017. The Plus version adds a screen on the remote that won't wash out in daylight. REUTERS/Steve Marcus
WASHINGTON, Dec 18 — Two Democratic U.S. senators have asked three major construction firms to disclose whether they used Chinese-made DJI drones on government contracts or at facilities considered sensitive to national security.
Senators Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) sent letters to Hensel Phelps, Brasfield & Gorrie, and the Bechtel Corporation requesting details about each company's relationship with Shenzhen-based DJI and any reported use of its drones on federally linked projects.
"The U.S. government considers the use of Chinese-made drones generally — and DJI drones specifically — a threat to national security and prohibits their use by federal agencies or contractors. The use of these types of drones at sensitive and secure facilities creates the potential to provide a pathway for the transfer of important national security-related information to the Chinese government."
The senators asked the companies to explain past and current use of DJI equipment, describe any safeguards in place, and confirm whether DJI drones were operated at sites with access to classified or otherwise sensitive information. The letters cite media reports alleging use of DJI drones by the firms on government projects.
The companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Reporting by David Shepardson in Washington; editing by Chizu Nomiyama.
