Central ND News

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – U.S. Senator John Hoeven emphasized the significance of Grand Forks as an innovation hub for U.S. national defense during his military tour of North Dakota. Hoeven highlighted the funding he secured for fiscal year (FY) 2024 to enhance space and unmanned missions in Grand Forks, ensuring the region remains at the forefront of space and hypersonic missions.

The funding secured by Hoeven supports various initiatives in Grand Forks, including the Space Development Agency (SDA) and Test Resource Management Center (TRMC) activities, which play crucial roles in space and hypersonic operations. Hoeven remarked, "The funding we’ve secured in FY24 truly drives home that Grand Forks is an innovation hub for U.S. national defense."

Furthermore, partnerships with research institutions and private industry in Grand Forks have led to the development of cutting-edge technologies that enhance military operations. Hoeven's efforts resulted in the allocation of over $100 million for defense research and development across North Dakota, with a significant portion dedicated to supporting defense research partnerships in the Grand Forks region.

One of the projects benefiting from Hoeven's funding is the collaboration with SDL, a Utah-based University-Affiliated Research Center, to leverage local expertise in unmanned aircraft operations for a Naval Research Laboratory project on unmanned aircraft swarms. Additionally, Hoeven allocated funds for the development of fast-refueling hydrogen fuel cells for Army vehicles, UAS modeling and simulation projects, and AR/VR technology for soldiers to access data from unmanned aircraft.

As Senator Hoeven continues his meetings across North Dakota to showcase the state's expanding role in U.S. national defense, Grand Forks stands out as a key player in driving innovation and advancements in unmanned and space military missions.