Kirsten Baesler, Superintendent | North Dakota State Board of Education
Kirsten Baesler, Superintendent | North Dakota State Board of Education
The North Dakota Department of Commerce is in the process of developing the State's Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Replacement Program. This initiative, authorized by Senate Bill No. 2018 during the 69th Legislative Assembly, aims to enhance security by replacing non-compliant drones used by state agencies.
The program is being developed in collaboration with the Northern Plains UAS Test Site (NPUASTS). While a public rollout timeline has not been established, efforts are underway to plan logistics, technical requirements, and training protocols. The program has received a $9 million appropriation from the Strategic Investment and Improvements Fund.
NPUASTS will assist in ensuring safe disposal of UAS, facilitating shared agency access, and maintaining secure operations. A comprehensive report detailing program implementation, drone replacement numbers, and training progress must be submitted to Legislative Management by June 30, 2026.
"This program reflects North Dakota’s continued leadership in UAS innovation while also ensuring we meet the standards outlined in the American Security Drone Act of 2023 and the National Defense Authorization Act of 2024," stated Commerce Commissioner Chris Schilken. "We’re laying a thoughtful, strategic foundation and look forward to sharing more details as plans advance."
For further information about the program, visit https://www.npuasts.com/drone-replacement-program.
Alerts Sign-up