Dubbed the “Silicon Valley of Drones” and home to one of seven Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) test sites conducting vital research, North Dakota is defining cutting-edge technology for uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) with $77 million already invested in capital and infrastructure.
The investment, coupled with deep relationships between the FAA and state to facilitate regulatory approvals, has led to North Dakota’s industry-defining advancement, Vantis.
Vantis positions North Dakota as the epicenter of commercial UAS activity by being the nation's first UAS statewide network to enable UAS flights beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).
The future for UAS in North Dakota is truly unlimited. With Vantis, North Dakota has the physical, commercial, and intellectual infrastructure to ensure that we continue leading the autonomous era.
North Dakota is home to Vantis, the nation's first statewide uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) network.
Experience our uncongested airspace, open terrain, and true four-season climate.
Benefit from our state’s direct access to decision-makers, business-centric government, and deep relationships with the FAA.
Collaborate with our partners like the Northern Plains UAS Test Site, Grand Sky Business and Aviation Park, Thales, Northrup Grummon, General Atomics, and nearly 50 other UAS companies that call North Dakota home.
Learn from decades of aviation, telecommunication, engineering, and government experience at University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University.
Fly with a leader. Fly with North Dakota.
A Strong UAS Team
North Dakota is home to a growing cluster of UAS research, business and military interests. Partnerships among private businesses, universities and state government strengthen North Dakota's position as a leader in UAS.
- The University of North Dakota is a world leader in aerospace education, UAS operations and safety. UND offers one of the most established UAS undergraduate programs in the nation.
- North Dakota State University possesses expertise in electronics engineering and computing technologies.
- The Northern Plains Unmanned Systems Authority focuses on safety, privacy and development of technologies, principles and procedures for UAS integration into the national airspace. The Authority oversees the Northern Plains UAS Test Site.
- North Dakota Aeronautics Commission plays a lead role in aviation safety.
- The Office of the Adjutant General provides a key link to UAS use for military applications.
- High-tech North Dakota businesses and their partners create an environment where collaboration and synergy result in new business opportunities.
- State leadership is committed to making North Dakota a hub for UAS advancement.
Contact your Lead Development Manager, Tracey Miller at 701-328-4420 to learn more.
