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