While we've all been obsessing over the DJI ban and scrambling for alternatives, a French company has been quietly executing a masterclass in strategic positioning. Parrot—the same company many of us remember for the AR.Drone—has reinvented itself as Europe's answer to China's drone dominance.
"In defence and public safety markets, success depends not only on technology but also on strong local partnerships."
— Chris Roberts, Senior Vice President at ParrotThe Big Picture: Parrot's Strategic Pivot
Parrot isn't trying to be the "next DJI" for consumers. They've made a calculated decision to dominate a different market entirely—defense, government, and enterprise. With the current geopolitical climate, that bet is paying off massively.
In December 2025, Parrot announced a significant expansion of their global distribution network with five new defense and security partners across Central and Eastern Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.
Why Parrot Matters for American Pilots
Zero Chinese Components
Every Parrot defense drone is manufactured without any Chinese parts, making them the safe choice for sensitive operations.
Blue sUAS Approved
Parrot drones are on the DoD's approved list for government and defense applications.
Final Thoughts
Parrot's story is a reminder that the drone industry isn't just about consumer gadgets. There's a parallel market of defense, security, and enterprise applications where "Made in China" is increasingly a liability.
Fly safe out there, and stay curious about the industry beyond just DJI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Parrot make consumer drones?
Parrot has largely exited the consumer market to focus on defense and enterprise applications where they can command premium prices and face less competition from DJI.
