GrandSKY Deploys Foundational C-UAS Architecture at Grand Forks AFB

GrandSKY, the nation’s first commercial UAS business and aviation park, 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.

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 defense 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 center 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 $100 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.”

The integrated system at GrandSKY augments airspace awareness and control, enabling a path to
support a variety of UAS and counter-UAS tests, operations, and demonstrations. This initiative is a key
component of a broader strategy to create a seamless network for counter-UAS operations across North
Dakota.

“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.”