Drone News Roundup: New DJI Lito and X1 Leaks, AI Drone Catcher, and More!

This week we’re covering new leaks for the DJI Lito and Lito X1.

We’re also covering an AI-powered drone catcher, DJI announcing end-of-life for the iconic Mavic 2 Pro, drone-based glacier research in Greenland, and a new FCC notice calling for help to build the domestic drone industry.

Now let’s get to those links!

New Leaks Show Possible DJI Lito and Lito X1 Designs

Credit: Igor Bogdanov of @Quadro_News

New leaked images appear to show two upcoming DJI drones, the Lito 1 and Lito X1. Up to now we’ve had very little information about this new series, beyond simply knowing the names of the two drones. The leaks have sparked some confusion online, since the new drones seem to overlap a lot with the Mini series.

From the images, a few key details stand out:

• Compact, foldable body. The drones appear to fold inward in a way similar to the Mini line, suggesting a focus on portability.
• Integrated gimbal camera. A forward-mounted 3-axis gimbal is clearly visible, with a more streamlined housing than previous designs.
• Modular-looking arms and props. The arms extend outward with what appear to be quick-release propellers.
• Refined top controls. Subtle LEDs and a redesigned battery compartment suggest a focus on simplified controls.

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AI-Powered Drone Catcher Uses Net to Intercept Rogue Drones Midair

This drone uses AI to intercept rogue drones in the air, then catch them with a net. The system was developed by Israeli companies Sentrycs and Robotican, combining RF-based (radio frequency) detection and tracking with an interceptor drone equipped to deploy a capture net mid-flight. The approach blends physical tactics—entangling a drone with a net—with onboard vision and AI-powered targeting to pursue and disable a target without relying on jamming or kinetic impact. CUAS (Counter UAS) systems like these have been increasing in importance, as governments expand enforcement and look for ways to safely stop unauthorized drones in sensitive airspace.

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End of an Era: DJI Announces End of Life for Mavic 2 Pro

Image source: DJI

DJI has issued an end-of-life notice for the iconic Mavic 2 Pro, marking the official phase-out of one of the most popular prosumer drones of all time. Support, including repairs and replacement parts, will be discontinued after August 31 of this year. Like the Phantom 4 Pro, which was discontinued last year, the Mavic 2 Pro made a name for itself—and for DJI—as a reliable workhorse for professional drone pilots. DJI also announced end-of-life for the Mavic 2 Enterprise Zoom and Dual and the Matrice 600. Follow the link below for the full list.

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Studying Greenland’s Glaciers by Drone

Researchers are using drones to study glaciers in Greenland, combining aerial data with satellite imagery to create more detailed models of how glaciers are changing over time. In a recent mission covered in the video above, teams on the research vessel Perseverance deployed a DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise to capture high-precision photogrammetry data across multiple glaciers. The drone flights produced detailed 3D maps of ice formations that can be compared with satellite data, helping researchers track movement, melting patterns, and structural changes in areas that would be difficult—or impossible—to survey on foot.

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FCC Seeks Input for Building a Strong Domestic Drone Industry

Credit: Skydio

The FCC recently issued a public notice seeking guidance on how to support the development of a stronger domestic drone industry. The notice comes as policymakers are looking for ways to reduce U.S. reliance on foreign-made drones in the wake of the FCC’s move late last year to block approvals for all new foreign-made drones. The FCC’s request asks for input on areas like supply chains, spectrum use, and policy frameworks—including how spectrum can be allocated to support reliable drone communications at scale. See the notice and how you can share your input by following the link below.

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