Kansas is to invest USD 2 million to enhance and support uncrewed aerial system (UAS) test ranges and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations. Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced the Air Innovation Range in Kansas (AIR KS) programme on 22 October.
The programme is designed to strengthen testing and innovation by expanding infrastructure and operational capabilities, accelerating commercialisation and promoting continued economic development.
Toland said the funding will help reduce financial barriers that have hindered industry growth and economic development opportunities.
The one-time grant award is intended to support expanding BVLOS navigation infrastructure and operational capabilities, increasing commercial and public-sector research and industry utilisation, commercialisation and attracting investment in agriculture, rural healthcare, defence and emerging technologies. It will also help strengthen public-private partnerships and the broader BVLOS ecosystem in Kansas while supporting long-term operations, maintenance and growth of UAS test ranges in the state, Toland said.
Awarded funds can be used to improve navigation infrastructure, technology systems, operational capabilities, software enhancements, professional services, equipment, infrastructure, travel or project management costs.
Eligible applicants are airport authorities, airport sponsors, municipalities, counties, governmental entities, private companies, nonprofit organisations, higher education institutions, tribal governments or partnerships among these organisations.
The work must be completed within eight months of receiving the funds. Funding will be distributed in two instalments, with half provided at the time of the award and the remaining amount delivered once the project has reached at least 50% completion.
The application window will close on 22 November with awardees expected to be announced in December.
For more information
Air Innovation Range at Kansas Department of Commerce
Image: Kansas Department of Commerce from the Kelly Hills drone test