Earlier this summer, two Executive Orders were signed, signaling the most ambitious federal action on uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) in U.S. history. The implications of “Unleashing American Drone Dominance” and “Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty” are significant, and while there's real opportunity on the horizon, the path forward requires careful strategic planning and leadership.
As a trusted partner in the North Dakota UAS ecosystem, the Northern Plains UAS Test Site (NPUASTS) and Vantis, our statewide UAS system, are supporting state and local leaders by clarifying these recent orders and guiding these communities through the next steps.
Breaking it Down: What do the Executive Orders Mean?
- Executive Order 1: “Unleashing American Drone Dominance”
- Directs the FAA to accelerate rulemaking for routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations within 240 days. This could enable longer-range, automated drone missions such as medical deliveries and infrastructure inspection without waivers.
- Executive Order 2: “Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty”
- Calls for new security frameworks, including detection and tracking systems for critical infrastructure, as well as coordination between federal, state and local agencies on airspace awareness and counter-UAS capabilities.
Both orders signal a strong push toward modernizing drone integration, but they do not immediately alter existing FAA regulations or mandate action from cities. After 120 days, any proposed changes will still need to go through the formal Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) process, adding more time for changes.
What Should ND Cities Do?
North Dakota is uniquely positioned as a national leader in drone integration, not because we rushed, but because we planned smartly, invested strategically, and partnered closely with the FAA and DoD.
✅ Wait for FAA Rulemaking
The FAA is now in a rulemaking process, and while BVLOS rules are expected by early 2026, they are not finalized. Until then, adopting a deliberate, government-informed strategy ensures that all cities and communities can prepare without being left behind.
✅ Engage with NPUASTS
We are already working with the FAA on the Radar Data Pathfinder program, BVLOS safety cases, and operational test environments. Cities do not need to navigate this alone. Vantis is a North Dakota shared infrastructure project.
✅ Align Efforts with the FAA
Low-altitude airspace is still federally regulated. Cities can prepare by coordinating public safety and planning efforts, but any real implementation should align with FAA guidance and state-led programs like Vantis.
✅ Focus on Trusted, NDAA-Compliant Solutions
The Executive Orders emphasize airspace security and American-made systems. We advise caution when considering platforms that rely on foreign components or operate outside federal security frameworks.
In the next 120 days, ND communities should:
- Begin internal education efforts with help from NPUASTS
- Inventory any existing drone use (public safety, utilities, etc.)
- Identify critical infrastructure that may require protection
- Engage with Vantis team on the future of BVLOS and electronic surveillance
A Final Word
North Dakota is leading the nation in uncrewed aviation with Vantis, a statewide system built to support safe and scalable BVLOS drone operations. Vantis leverages aviation-grade infrastructure, secure command and control communications, and real time situational awareness tools including radar feeds and surveillance data to enable complex UAS missions. Through its integration with the FAA Federal Radar Data Pathfinder Program, Vantis expands airspace visibility by incorporating federal radar assets, enhancing safety across the National Airspace System. Covering nearly 5,000 square miles and continuing to grow, Vantis empowers industry and communities to unlock the full potential of drone technology.
NPUASTS is committed to helping our communities navigate what’s next with integrity, clarity, and purpose.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation:
Northern Plains UAS Test Site
701.777.6100
📧 info@npuasts.com