Central ND News

Senator John Hoeven participated in a virtual discussion with U.S. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink during the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Summit in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The event focused on advancing counter-drone technologies and exploring practical uses of drones to enhance U.S. military operations.

Hoeven highlighted the urgency of addressing the evolving threat posed by unmanned aircraft. “Technology is rapidly changing warfare around the world. We developed Project ULTRA because we can’t wait on the traditional acquisition process. The U.S. needed a new approach to keep pace with our adversaries and overcome the serious risk posed by unmanned aircraft, and there is no better place in the world to do that work than Grand Forks,” said Hoeven. “Ultimately, this is about getting to a unified counter-drone defense strategy, like we did with missile defense. That’s the long-term goal, and considering the threat we face, it needs to be a cornerstone of U.S. defense. We’re taking the first steps right here in North Dakota, and we’re able to do so because of the unique set of partnerships and capabilities that we’ve brought together.”

During the summit, Hoeven discussed how inexpensive and expendable unmanned aircraft are changing modern warfare. He noted that adversaries can use these systems to target valuable assets at low cost and risk, while countering such threats remains expensive for defenders.

Hoeven emphasized that counter-drone strategies should become as central to national security as missile defense has been for decades. He pointed out that Project ULTRA aims to develop cost-effective methods to detect and neutralize drone threats, enhancing protection for military installations across the country.

Recent developments include Air Combat Command selecting Grand Forks Air Force Base as the location for a new Point Defense Battle Lab and AeroVironment introducing its AV Halo counter-UAS system at GrandSKY. These initiatives are expected to contribute to research and testing in counter-UAS technology.

Additionally, upcoming runway repairs at Grand Forks Air Force Base will allow GrandSKY to conduct small UAS flights without interference from other aircraft, providing opportunities to collect data on tracking and detection systems.

Hoeven also outlined how drones can support routine military operations such as resupply missions, improving efficiency and reducing risks to personnel in hazardous areas. Project ULTRA is currently developing protocols for unmanned cargo deliveries between bases.

He stated that Project ULTRA's approach moves faster than traditional military procurement processes, allowing rapid adaptation to technological changes while remaining within budget constraints. With an increased contract ceiling of $100 million and a new partnership with U.S. Central Command, Project ULTRA is positioned to help all branches of the military develop necessary capabilities quickly and affordably.