Drone Manufacturer Evicted from Brooklyn Navy Yard Following Extended Protests

The Brooklyn Navy Yard’s decision to not renew the lease for Easy Aerial, a drone manufacturer with contracts involving controversial military links, marks a significant triumph for local activists. For over a year, a group called Demilitarize Brooklyn Navy Yard has been campaigning against Easy Aerial, citing its connections with Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Israeli military, and Elbit Systems, an Israeli weapons manufacturer. Despite being listed as a “fine art and photography” business, Easy Aerial holds substantial US Air Force and CBP contracts.

The lease’s non-renewal, confirmed at a February 11 Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation board meeting, is believed to be influenced by public and activist pressure. Spokesperson Claire Holmes indicated the decision stemmed from “tenant conduct,” although specifics remain undisclosed.

Councilmember Lincoln Restler recognized the impact of community and stakeholder concerns, suggesting public sentiment played a role in the board’s decision. Nonetheless, activists credit grassroots efforts for the outcome.

Controversy over military-linked operations persists, as activists now turn attention to Crye Precision, another Navy Yard tenant accused of military contracts. Public meetings, once open for direct input, are now restrictive in response to the intense scrutiny and protests the board faces.

In response, Demilitarize Brooklyn Navy Yard emphasize continued vigilance against businesses they allege contribute to harmful global practices, aiming to hold the Brooklyn Navy Yard accountable for its community impact and ethical standing.