Central ND News

Senator John Hoeven announced the commencement of Project UAS Logistics, Traffic, Research and Autonomy (Project ULTRA) today in Grand Forks, N.D. The initiative aims to leverage Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) technology for practical applications within the U.S. military. Project ULTRA seeks to transition from research to practice by demonstrating various UAS applications that will benefit Grand Forks Air Force Base and potentially serve as a model for other installations nationwide.

The project focuses on developing practical UAS applications such as supply delivery, base inspections, and installation security. Hoeven secured $2.5 million in Fiscal Year 2023 funding for Project ULTRA through his role on the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee. The open contract is valued at up to $18.25 million and can receive additional funding in subsequent years; Hoeven has already obtained further funds for Fiscal Year 2024.

Today, Grand Forks County approved the initial Defense Department contract, which will utilize the expertise of the Northern Plains UAS Test Site and Grand Sky Technology Park. This collaboration with Grand Forks Air Force Base aims to advance traffic management, counter-UAS capabilities for Department of Defense bases, and on-base applications for small UAS.

"Grand Forks is the right place for the Defense Department to conduct cutting-edge UAS research and development," said Hoeven. "This contract is an important step in an exciting new chapter for UAS in North Dakota."

Hoeven emphasized that Project ULTRA would demonstrate how UAS can support everyday activities at military installations, including delivering supplies and inspecting base infrastructure while developing methods to secure these installations from UAS threats.

The specifics of the contract are still under negotiation, with detailed initiatives expected to be announced by Hoeven in the coming weeks.

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