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WASHINGTON – The U.S. Navy announced a $14,499,109 contract with Ideal Aerosmith, Inc. for the development of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) technology. Specifically, the contract will reimburse costs associated with hardware in the loop (HWIL), software in the loop (SWIL), and inspection and testing methodologies enabling attributable unmanned system development.

Work on the project will be performed in Grand Forks and is expected to be completed by January 2027.

“The unmanned aerial systems ecosystem here in North Dakota contributes significantly to how we defend the nation and our freedoms around the world,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC). “The contract awarded to Ideal Aerosmith recognizes Grand Forks’ ascension to a premier unmanned aerial systems hub. This is a dynamic time for Grand Forks, and it’s always an honor showcasing what’s possible in North Dakota.”

Ideal Aerosmith is the leading supplier of precision inertial guidance test systems and flight motion simulators, and a premier provider of aerospace test engineering services, ATE system engineering, and quality contract manufacturing services to the aerospace industry. Upon final passage, the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is expected to authorize appropriations for $8 million in funding for development of new unmanned aerial vehicle technology produced by Ideal Aerosmith.