Peace Garden News

Senator John Hoeven and BlueHalo representatives have announced the expansion of BlueHalo's operations in the Grand Forks region, focusing on counter-drone, hypersonic missile testing, and space operations. The company has signed a memorandum of understanding with GrandSKY to install its VigilantHalo system as part of Project ULTRA at the unmanned aerial systems technology park. This initiative aims to make Grand Forks a key site for developing technologies to protect U.S. military installations from drone threats.

The VigilantHalo system will enhance Project ULTRA by linking FAA radar data with other sensor systems, improving the tracking of unmanned aircraft. BlueHalo will also support the Sky Range program at GrandSKY using its PANTHER phased array antenna, which aids in tracking hypersonic missiles and communicating with satellites.

Additionally, BlueHalo is working on adapting its phased array antenna for space-based platforms as part of the STAPS Project, funded under $8.3 million secured by Hoeven in Fiscal Year 2024. This effort involves miniaturizing the antenna for satellite use to provide more tracking data during missile tests.

Senator Hoeven stated, “Partnerships are the foundation on which North Dakota’s UAS ecosystem is built... today’s announcement ties together North Dakota’s role in some of the most critical missions for the future of our nation’s defense.”

BlueHalo COO Trip Ferguson highlighted North Dakota as a hub for national security research and innovation: “The state’s unique blend of leaders like Senator Hoeven who understand these urgent priorities... is creating an environment of rapid innovation.”

GrandSKY President Tom Swoyer Jr. emphasized that their agreement with BlueHalo enhances BVLOS operations and strengthens uncrewed flight safety: “This collaboration addresses critical challenges... while also integrating counter-UAS capabilities which are becoming increasingly critical to national security.”

VigilantHalo integrates multiple radar feeds to improve UAS traffic management and beyond-visual-line-of-sight flights. It supports efforts to expand Project ULTRA's scope in developing new tools against malicious drone use.