The system will integrate AeroVironment’s inner layer distributed counter-UAS platforms, including the Titan and Titan-SV RF-based detection systems. These technologies will be managed through AV_Halo™ COMMAND software, offering a unified operational picture for both counter-UAS and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) awareness.
“We’re deploying technologies that deliver unmatched situational awareness to Grand Forks AFB while providing a road map to expand these limited area defense capabilities at critical sites throughout the nation in support of Golden Dome for America,” said Wahid Nawabi, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of AV. “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.”
Senator John Hoeven highlighted North Dakota’s strategic role in UAS development and protection, citing the importance of AeroVironment’s technology in national defence efforts. “North Dakota is the premier location for developing both applications for unmanned aircraft and protections against the misuse of drone technology, and bringing AV’s counter-UAS system to GrandSKY accelerates the important work being done through initiatives like Project ULTRA,” said Hoeven. “Counter-drone is a critical priority for the future of our nation’s defense. We’ve seen in Israel and Ukraine how drones are being used to wage war in new and dangerous ways. The capabilities and partnerships we’ve built in the Grand Forks region will enable our nation to tackle this emerging threat, and we appreciate AV for its growing commitment to GrandSKY and the important role its technology will play in these efforts.”
The announcement builds on a March 2025 memorandum of understanding between AeroVironment and GrandSKY supporting Project ULTRA, a $110 million public-private initiative championed by Senator Hoeven. The collaboration has already led to the integration of AV_Halo COMMAND Mission software into GrandSKY’s BVLOS operations.
“We’re excited to grow our relationship with AV. What started as a partnership to explore ground-based sense and avoid tools for UAS operations is now expanding to support multi-layered counter-UAS capabilities,” said Tom Swoyer, Jr., President at GrandSKY. “Deploying these technologies will give us a path to support a variety of UAS and Counter-UAS tests, operations and demonstrations. One of the most significant advantages we gain is the ability to collaborate closely with our partners at Grand Forks Air Force Base. Through Project ULTRA, we will explore and understand the comprehensive requirements needed to effectively defend against UAS threats and be better equipped to address the full range of challenges and ensure our nation’s domestic defenses capabilities are robust and adaptable.”
