Recent revelations from DroneXL have ignited debate in the drone community after an addendum obtained from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) showed that DJI’s Matrice 4T scored 4.6 and the Matrice 30T scored 4.3 in testing at Hudson Yards—both outperforming the Skydio X10D, which received a 3.7. These scores were notably absent from the public report, prompting questions about why such data was withheld.

As a drone enthusiast and creator, innovation isn’t just about flight time or camera resolution—it’s about trust in the tools we rely on for aerial imaging, inspection, and storytelling. DJI has consistently pushed boundaries with features like omnidirectional obstacle sensing, advanced AI-powered subject tracking, and rugged, modular designs built for professional use in complex environments. The Matrice series, in particular, stands out for its thermal imaging capabilities, interchangeable payloads, and enterprise-grade durability—qualities that clearly resonated in the DHS evaluation.

The fact that DJI’s systems scored higher than Skydio’s X10D—a drone often praised for its autonomous navigation—under real-world urban testing conditions speaks to the maturity of DJI’s platform. Yet, the omission of these results from public disclosure raises concerns about transparency in the Blue UAS program, which aims to identify secure, domestically aligned drone solutions for government use.

For creators and professionals who depend on reliable, high-performance drones, knowing how these systems perform under rigorous evaluation is essential. When test results are hidden, it undermines informed decision-making and fuels speculation—especially when the data suggests DJI’s technology remains competitive, if not superior, in key operational scenarios.

Moving forward, the drone community deserves clarity. Whether you’re flying for film, inspection, or public service, understanding the true capabilities of the tools at our disposal starts with honest, accessible reporting—not selective disclosure. The sky is open; the conversation should be too.