North Dakota Department of Commerce

08/30/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/30/2024 15:27

NDDF Moves to Commercialize Pioneering Vantis Drone Network

Friday, August 30, 2024 - 04:16 pm

The North Dakota Development Fund, Inc. (NDDF) announces a significant step forward towards realizing a return on investment from the state's investment in uncrewed aerial systems. The NDDF board voted to approve the incorporation of a state-owned entity to provide a vehicle to commercialize the Vantis network. This move aims to unlock the network's full potential, attracting partnerships and generating revenue for the state.
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Vantis, a trailblazing nationwide UAS network, has already cemented North Dakota's position as a national leader in commercial drone activity. By enabling beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights, Vantis opens doors for innovative applications across various sectors. <_o3a_p>

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"North Dakota stands at the forefront of UAS integration," said Commerce Commissioner Josh Teigen. "By commercializing Vantis, we can offer mature digital aviation services - validated through years of Northern Plains UAS Test Site (NPUASTS) activities - further propelling North Dakota's industries and shaping the future of AI/Autonomy." <_o3a_p>

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North Dakota's robust infrastructure, coupled with a thriving UAS ecosystem featuring research, businesses, and military participation, solidifies its leadership in the autonomous era. Partnerships forged through initiatives like Vantis will propel the state even further. <_o3a_p>

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For more information on North Dakota's UAS program, visit https://www.commerce.nd.gov/economic-development-finance/autonomous-systems<_o3a_p>