# North Dakota Finalizes Drone Replacement Procurement

North Dakota is approaching the final procurement phase of its Drone Replacement Program aimed at equipping state agencies with NDAA-compliant unmanned aircraft systems and sensors. This initiative ensures continued eligibility for federal funding while enhancing operational capabilities across agencies. The program leverages the Northern Plains UAS Test Site and its Vantis BVLOS infrastructure to support agency-specific aircraft and sensor selections. Vendor selections and pricing are nearing completion as the state prepares to award contracts in September 2026.

- The procurement focuses on NDAA-compliant UAS technology, reflecting federal requirements that impact funding eligibility for state agencies.
- Procurement professionals should note the integration of specialized infrastructure like the Northern Plains UAS Test Site and Vantis BVLOS, which may influence technical requirements and vendor qualifications.
- Industry stakeholders, including drone manufacturers and sensor providers, have an opportunity to engage as vendor selections finalize.
- This program signals growing state-level investment in advanced unmanned systems, indicating potential future procurements in related technology and operational support services.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Contracting Vehicles, Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** September 16, 2026

### Government Entities
- North Dakota Legislature
- Northern Plains UAS Test Site (NPUASTS)

### Vendors
- Thales (industry partner)

### Key Quotes
> North Dakota has spent years building an environment where UAS technology can move from an idea to a practical tool.
> — Chris Schilken, Commerce Commissioner

> Now we’re getting to the point of putting those tools in their hands.
> — Trevor Woods, Executive Director of the Northern Plains UAS Test Site

### Sources
- [North Dakota Drone Replacement Program nears final procurement stage | North Dakota State Government - ND Portal](https://www.nd.gov/news/north-dakota-drone-replacement-program-nears-final-procurement-stage) - ND