Testing and Evaluating C-UAS Methods

The Northern Plains UAS Test Site is a nationally trusted partner for Counter-UAS testing and evaluation in the National Airspace System, supporting the FAA, Department of War, Department of Homeland Security, and other federal stakeholders and industry partners across detect, track, identify, and mitigation missions.

We have safely executed live C-UAS testing with both kinetic and non-kinetic systems, including directed energy (laser and high-powered microwave), net capture, projectile-based systems, and interceptor drones. Our team understands the technical, operational, safety, and regulatory complexities associated with C-UAS testing, particularly when mitigation is involved, and we design test programs that safely transition emerging C-UAS technologies from concept to operational readiness.

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Trusted Partners

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Department of War (DoW)
Other federal and state partners
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End-to-End C-UAS Capability

We understand what it takes to gain approval to test C-UAS systems in the National Airspace and have successfully executed complex, live mitigation operations under FAA oversight. Our team develops and manages:

  • Program plans and test plans
  • Airspace approvals and operational waivers
  • FAA 14 CFR §124n approvals for mitigation activities
  • Safety cases, CONOPS and risk management frameworks
A counter-uas attempt against a small unmanned vehicle

North Dakota's Counter-UAS Advantage

North Dakota's drone ecosystem allows NPUASTS to support C-UAS testing that closely reflects real-world operational conditions, including contested environments and complex airspace integration challenges.

  • Vantis, enabling BVLOS and advanced C-UAS scenarios
  • 10,000-acre live-fire range supporting real mitigation testing
  • Diverse terrain and low electromagnetic congestion ideal for sensor evaluation
  • Airspace access suitable for multi-asset, multi-domain test campaigns
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Full-Service Test Execution & Logistics

We act as an operational integrator, aligning regulators, range infrastructure, safety, logistics, and research to ensure each C-UAS test event delivers defensible data and meaningful outcomes:

  • Flight operations and safety teams
  • Range safety, airspace deconfliction, and operational control
  • Fire protection and emergency response
  • Range tower and operations trailers
  • Advanced data collection, instrumentation, and telemetry
  • Onsite classrooms and mission planning spaces
  • Access to research scientists for data analysis and final reporting

Talk to Counter-UAS Experts

See why government and defense partners trust us for C-UAS testing and evaluation.

Contact Us