US drone maker Skydio faces battery squeeze after Chinese sanctions

Skydio faces battery shortage due to Chinese sanctions, impacts supply chain.

: Skydio, a US drone maker, is facing a battery shortage due to sanctions imposed by China. The sanctions prevent Chinese companies from doing business with Skydio, complicating its supply chain. Despite having a substantial stock of batteries, new sources won't be available until the next spring. The company has asked for assistance from the Biden administration amid the supply chain crisis.

US-based drone manufacturer Skydio has reported a battery shortage following sanctions from China, limiting customers to one battery per drone. These sanctions prevent Chinese companies from doing business with Skydio, showcasing America's supply chain vulnerabilities.

Skydio relies on global supply chains, with batteries sourced from China posing an issue following the sanctions announced on October 10. Skydio, whose drones are used by Ukraine’s military and Taiwan’s National Fire Agency, is extending warranties and software licenses for affected orders until full battery delivery resumes.

The Biden administration is working with Skydio to address the crisis, while Skydio has also communicated with Taiwan’s Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim. Ten executives, including CEO Adam Bry, have been sanctioned, and this move is seen as an attempt to deepen reliance on Chinese suppliers. DJI has also sued the U.S. over 'military company' designation.

Drone IndustryChinese SanctionsSupply Chain