US UAV manufacturer highlights losses due to Chinese sanctions.

The American drone manufacturer Skydio says that 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, following the US approval of $567 million in defense aid for Taiwan, according to AFP on October 31.

A Skydio UAV prototype.

Photo: Screenshot from Skydio

Skydio said on October 30 that China's embargo was "because of the sale of drones to Taiwan, where our only customer right now is the Taiwan Fire Department."

But Skydio argues that China is also seeking to create advantages for its companies and advance Beijing's interests.

"This is a moment of clarity for the drone industry. If there was ever any doubt, this action clearly shows 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," Bry added. Bry is among the individuals sanctioned by China.

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

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

There is currently no information 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