Central ND News

The Grand Forks region is set to strengthen its role in counter-unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations following two major developments announced at the start of the Unmanned Aerial Systems Summit. Senator John Hoeven revealed that the U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command (ACC) has chosen Grand Forks Air Force Base as the site for its new Point Defense Battle Lab.

Hoeven collaborated with General Kenneth Wilsbach, former ACC Commander and nominee for Air Force Chief of Staff, as well as current ACC Commander General Adrian Spain to support Grand Forks’ selection. The battle lab will focus on developing and testing advanced technologies designed to defend military installations from threats posed by small unmanned aircraft systems. The initiative aims to quickly test and validate solutions that can protect specific locations against UAS threats, aligning closely with Project ULTRA’s ongoing work in the area. Details about the lab’s operations are expected in the coming months, with Hoeven stating he will continue working with ACC to leverage regional partnerships.

In addition, AeroVironment is expanding its presence in North Dakota by bringing its AV Halo counter-UAS system to GrandSKY. Earlier this year, AeroVironment acquired BlueHalo, a company previously involved in partnerships with the Sky Range program and Grand Forks Air Force Base. Nearly $16 million was secured for these efforts. The AV Halo system features the Titan radar, which provides 360-degree long-range surveillance. Its command software integrates data from Titan radar to deliver a mission-ready view for counter-UAS detection and air domain awareness. AV Halo will be available immediately to support both Project ULTRA’s research and testing and activities at the new ACC battle lab.

Senator Hoeven stated, “Our efforts to bring both the Point Defense Battle Lab and AV Halo to the region truly add to the unique UAS ecosystem we’ve built in Grand Forks, further securing our role as the premier location for unmanned aviation, including drone and counter-drone research and testing. Importantly, these two announcements work in tandem. The Air Force needs help to address UAS threats, particularly those to our domestic bases, while companies like AeroVironment have the technical solutions the Air Force needs. We’ve seen in Israel and Ukraine how drones are being used to wage war in new and dangerous ways. Between Project ULTRA at GrandSKY, the Northern Plains UAS Test Site and the Grand Forks Air Force Base, the capabilities and partnerships we’ve built in this region will enable our nation to tackle this emerging threat.”