China is poised to broaden its export controls on a range of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and related equipment, with new measures expected to take effect on September 1. The government’s commerce ministry published details outlining why these steps are being taken, citing national security and the protection of state interests. The controls will supplement existing restrictions that were put in place in 2015 and are planned to remain in force for two years.
The new regime targets UAVs that can be operated manually from outside the operator’s line of sight for up to 30 minutes. Previously, the rules covered drones capable of flight for one hour or longer. Additional limits specify a maximum take-off weight of seven kilograms and a useful unloaded take-off weight cap of four kilograms.
Export permissions will also be required for drone engines rated at more than 16 kilowatts of continuous power. The controls extend to components and equipment used for jamming, infrared imaging, laser sights, synthetic aperture radar, and certain communications gear.
The Ministry of Commerce noted that rapid advances in technology are broadening the applications of UAVs, including potential military uses. Officials stressed that the expansion of export controls is not directed at any specific country or region, but rather reflects a broader policy approach aimed at safeguarding national security and strategic interests.
In related developments, India announced on August 8 that its military UAV manufacturers may not use components sourced from China, signaling a tightening of cross-border supply chains in the defense sector. This follows reports that Russia has been developing a drone suppression system, highlighting evolving dynamics in aerial warfare and technology transfer. [Source: DEA News]