The drone ban underscores a critical reality: China’s strategy of leveraging dual-purpose technology is deliberate and dangerous. Civilian innovations, like DJI’s affordable and widely used drones, serve as tools for potential espionage under the guise of “innovation”. These drones, often found near sensitive sites like military bases and energy infrastructure, illustrate the tangible security threat posed by China’s calculated approach. This isn’t speculation, China has spent decades turning civilian technology into strategic assets for economic, political, and military gain.
I’ve said this before: during the 1980s, American industry fueled China’s ascent by outsourcing production and sharing technology, aiming to cut costs and expand markets. What seemed like a smart move then has become a nightmare, as China’s industrial infrastructure has exploded into a global force. Civilian advancements, like electric aircraft, have been seamlessly integrated into military capabilities, giving China a strategic edge.
Now, the U.S. is scrambling to reclaim lost ground—rebuilding factories, supply chains, and technological leadership. While efforts are underway, the challenge is enormous, and time is not on our side. Believing China’s advances are purely civilian is dangerously naive.
As for “getting along” with China, the CCP? That would require the CCP abandoning its calculated strategy of domination, so don’t hold your breath.