New flagship features high payload capacity, advanced sensors, and robust video transmission
DJI has officially launched its new enterprise drone, the Matrice 400, introducing a platform designed for long-endurance missions, intelligent obstacle sensing, and heavy payload support. With a flight time of up to 59 minutes and a payload capacity of 6 kg, the Matrice 400 sets a new benchmark in DJI’s professional lineup.
The company unveiled the aircraft on June 10, 2025, emphasizing its suitability for emergency response, power line inspections, and large-scale mapping. Christina Zhang, Senior Director of Corporate Strategy at DJI, stated:
“DJI sets the gold standard worldwide for operational safety, efficiency, and reliability with our enterprise drones… With DJI Matrice 400, we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible with nearly an hour of flight time and more intelligent features to ensure the safety of people and property.”
Extended Endurance and All-Weather Operation
The Matrice 400 is built for demanding environments. It can fly forward for up to 59 minutes and hover for 53 minutes, even with a payload. The drone is rated IP55, meaning it can operate in rain, dust, and extreme temperatures ranging from -20°C to 50°C.
Its performance supports offshore use cases, including the ability to take off from stationary vessels and land on moving ships. These capabilities make it a strong candidate for maritime patrol and wind turbine inspections.
Intelligent Obstacle Sensing System
One of the drone’s standout features is its advanced obstacle avoidance system. The Matrice 400 is equipped with LiDAR, mmWave radar, and low-light fisheye vision sensors, allowing it to detect and avoid small and complex objects like high-voltage power lines—day or night.
It can maintain stability near reflective surfaces such as glass buildings and wind turbines, even when return points are not updated. The drone is capable of navigating at speeds up to 25 m/s, a key feature for high-speed missions in urban or mountainous terrain.
Enhanced Video Transmission and Connectivity
The Matrice 400’s video transmission system enables real-time image transmission up to 40 km. It uses a ten-antenna array on the aircraft and a phased array antenna on the controller. For extended missions in obstructed or mountainous environments, one Matrice 400 can act as a relay for another.
The drone also supports the sub-2G frequency band. With two DJI Cellular Dongle 2 devices, the drone can switch between networks for the most stable signal in areas with limited connectivity.
Smart Features for Autonomous Missions
The Matrice 400 includes intelligent functions to streamline complex missions. These include:
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Smart Detection: Identifies vehicles, vessels, and people—even in thermal imaging mode.
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AR Projection: Power Line AR displays detected lines on the controller, improving situational awareness.
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Map View AR: Labels buildings and roads in real time for easier navigation.
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Terrain Follow: Maintains consistent altitude when flying over uneven ground.
These tools are aimed at increasing accuracy and reducing pilot workload in search and rescue, inspection, and survey missions.
Payload Flexibility and System Compatibility
With four E-Port V2 connectors, the Matrice 400 supports up to seven payloads simultaneously. DJI’s new drone is compatible with a wide range of proprietary and third-party tools, including:
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Zenmuse H30: A five-sensor payload for day or night use.
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Zenmuse L2: Frame-based LiDAR with a 4/3 CMOS RGB camera for mapping.
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Zenmuse P1: A full-frame camera tailored for photogrammetry missions.
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Zenmuse S1: High-powered spotlight using LEP laser technology.
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Zenmuse V1: Loudspeaker module with long-distance broadcast capability.
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Manifold 3: Embedded computer for enhanced control and automation.
This flexibility allows the drone to adapt to varied missions across multiple industries.
Enterprise-Level Data Privacy and Protection
DJI continues to focus on data security for enterprise clients. Operators can enable Local Data Mode, which disconnects the DJI Pilot 2 app from the internet. Users can also clear stored data and adjust privacy settings at any time.
“DJI has regularly submitted its products for independent security audits by reputable firms,” the company noted, referencing certifications including FIPS 140-2 Level 1, ISO 27001, and ISO 27701.
Support Services and Availability
The DJI Care Enterprise Plus program offers unlimited repairs within coverage limits and one battery replacement per year. An extra one-year warranty is available on major components, offering added value and peace of mind for enterprise customers.
The Matrice 400 is available now through authorized DJI Enterprise dealers. Visit enterprise.dji.com/matrice-400 for more details.
Market Reception and U.S. Availability Questions
The industry has responded positively. Heliguy calls it “a game-changing heavy-lift drone,” DroneDJ describes it as “a beast,” and PetaPixel praises the “incredible” 59-minute flight time.
However, questions remain about availability in the United States amid ongoing trade tensions. While DJI has not commented on import logistics, sourcing the Matrice 400 may prove challenging in the short term, even as demand is expected to be strong.
Editor’s Note: As of June 2024, U.S. operators no longer have the option to sync their flight records to DJI’s servers, a move tied to data security policy shifts.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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