GrandSKY today announced the deployment of a foundational counter-uncrewed aircraft system (C-UAS) architecture at Grand Forks Air Force Base. “This initiative marks a significant step toward establishing GrandSKY as a premier center for C-UAS testing, development, and operations,” said the organization in a press release. “The initial phase, now underway, includes the integration of AeroVironment’s AV_Halo COMMAND Mission software and radio frequency (RF)-based Titan-SV counter-UAS capability. This deployment provides the critical first layer of a comprehensive, layered defense system, focusing on the detection, identification, and tracking (DIT) of unmanned aerial threats. This seamless network of passive sensors and radars provides airspace situational awareness and serves as the beginning of a system that could become a cornerstone for protecting critical infrastructure.”
“We are building the future of air defence right here in North Dakota,” GrandSKY President Thomas Swoyer Jr. said. “This deployment reflects the strategic evolution of GrandSKY as it endeavors to create a national counter-UAS centrr of excellence. By integrating these advanced DIT capabilities, we are establishing the foundational sensor network necessary to understand and counter evolving drone threats. This deployment directly supports our collaboration with Grand Forks Air Force Base and positions us to be a leader in the development of robust, adaptable defense solutions for the nation.”
This partnership builds on the March 2025 memorandum of understanding (MOU) between GrandSKY and AV in support of Project ULTRA, a USD100 million public-private initiative to establish Grand Forks as the nation’s proving ground for advanced counter-UAS defense.
“Grand Forks continues to play a vital role in strengthening both North Dakota’s economy and America’s national security,” Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) said. “By leveraging these proven technologies at GrandSKY, we are ensuring our state remains at the forefront of innovation while providing the layered protection our nation needs against rapidly evolving threats.”
“Establishing the framework for limited area defense at Grand Forks marks an important step toward building a layered defense system for the nation against constantly evolving drone threats,” AV Chairman, President and CEO Wahid Nawabi said. “By combining our surveillance and edge-intelligence technologies with the vision of GrandSKY and the support of leaders, like Senator Hoeven, we are accelerating solutions that will protect critical U.S. military installations and the service members who operate within them.”
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