In a striking pivot that signals growing concerns about its core business, DJI has become a shareholder in ELEGOO, a major consumer 3D-printer manufacturer. The investment marks a significant strategic shift for the Chinese drone giant, which is facing unprecedented regulatory pressure in its largest market.
The move comes as DJI confronts a critical December 23, 2025 deadline that could reshape its entire business. Under the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), if no U.S. national security agency completes a formal security audit of DJI by that date, the company will be automatically added to the FCC Covered List—effectively banning new DJI drones from being imported or sold in the United States.
The Perfect Storm: Regulatory Pressure and Supply Chain Chaos
DJI's diversification into 3D printing isn't just a random business expansion—it's a calculated response to mounting existential threats. The company has already faced severe supply chain disruptions, with new DJI drones becoming nearly impossible to find in U.S. stores due to FCC equipment authorization suspensions and customs delays.
The stakes couldn't be higher. As of November 2025, no federal agency has scheduled the required security audit. If the deadline passes without action, the automatic ban will trigger regardless of any actual security findings. This means DJI could lose access to one of its most lucrative markets overnight.
What's Happening Behind the Scenes
While DJI waits anxiously for the audit that may never come, the company is taking matters into its own hands. Beyond the ELEGOO investment, DJI has been actively addressing security concerns. In June 2025, the company released a white paper addressing privacy and security, emphasizing supply chain transparency and ethical labor practices.
The company has also been transparent about its willingness to cooperate. DJI has publicly called on the government to conduct the review, stating they have "nothing to hide". However, bureaucratic inertia appears to be working against them.
The Broader Picture: What This Means for Users
For DJI drone owners and potential buyers, the situation remains fluid and uncertain.
Good news: If you already own a DJI drone, you'll be able to continue flying it even if a ban takes effect. However, future firmware updates, replacement parts, and new product availability could become significantly harder to obtain in 2026.
Recent developments have provided some relief. New DJI models—including the Mavic 4 Pro and Mini 5 Pro—have returned to stock on Amazon after months of shortages. However, availability remains unpredictable and could fluctuate rapidly depending on regulatory developments.
DJI's Broader Business Moves
Beyond the ELEGOO investment, DJI continues to innovate in its core markets. The company recently unveiled its latest product on November 13, 2025, with the "Fly Your Way" campaign emphasizing simplicity, flexibility, and creativity. Additionally, DJI launched the
Osmo Action 6, its first action camera with variable aperture, marking another diversification effort.
The company has also been expanding its GEO system updates, with a phased rollout beginning November 17, 2025, for consumer and enterprise product lines.
The Bottom Line
DJI's investment in ELEGOO represents more than just business diversification—it's a hedge against potential catastrophe. With the December 23 deadline approaching and no audit scheduled, the company is preparing for a future where its drone business in the U.S. might be severely restricted or eliminated entirely. Whether this strategic pivot will be enough to sustain DJI if the ban takes effect remains one of the most pressing questions in the tech industry right now.
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New DJI Product Drop Confirmed For 13th November 2025 - Coptrz2.
DJI becomes shareholder in consumer 3D-printer maker ELEGOO - TechNode3.
Dronemaker DJI buys into 3D printer manufacturer Elegoo - Tom's Hardware4. [The Complete DJI Ban Guide [Updated for 2025] - UAV Coach](https://uavcoach.com/dji-ban/)
5.
DJI Expands GEO System Update to Remaining International - DJI Official
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