MITRE Opens New Testing and Experimentation Facility for Small Drones

MITRE has opened a new small drone testing and experimentation site in Orange, VA.  The site will allow MITRE staff and US government sponsors to test and evaluate new technology in autonomous systems, sUAS, and counter drone solutions.

“We take great pride in being a trusted partner for agencies in helping them select and evaluate the right UAS and C-UAS tools for their unique needs,” said Yosry Barsoum, MITRE vice president and director, Center for Securing the Homeland. “This new testing range will enable agencies and industry to work hand in hand to build safer communities.”

The opening of the range included a ribbon cutting that included Jeffrey Vincent, executive director of the FAA’s UAS Integration Office, and U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, who represents the area in Congress.

“The Drone Range will provide a tremendous opportunity for valuable collaboration among government, industry, and academic researchers, benefitting the drone community at large,” Vincent said.

“This moment marks a major milestone for Orange County, Virginia’s economy, and this technology’s promise to make America safer and stronger. As someone with a background in national security, I understand how critical—and how necessary—these technologies are for the future defense of our homeland, our communities, and our people,” said Spanberger. “That’s why I was proud to join MITRE leaders and local officials as we reiterated our commitment to making sure Virginia continues to lead the way in this field. I’m thrilled that MITRE has selected Orange County for this range. It’s truly an exciting day to be a Virginian.”

MITRE has a deep history in technology innovation and government and public safety applications.  “MITRE has partnered with police, firefighters, and security and public safety organizations across the country to enable drone technology specifically tailored for the situations first responders encounter most frequently,” says the MITRE announcement.  “This includes recent work with the New York Police Department to transform hazardous materials response units.”

Both the Army and Navy are implementing MITRE’s groundbreaking smartphone app-controlled counter-drone solution, CARPE Dronvm, equipping soldiers and sailors with the means to swiftly report and thwart aerial threats. MITRE Engenuity, a subsidiary of MITRE, has researched the benefits of wide-area 5G cellular network architectures on UAS, specifically those intended to operate beyond visual line of sight. Engenuity is also actively developing a training program for first responders on how to safely, effectively, and efficiently conduct drone operations.

“Our team of experts works tirelessly to ensure our drone solutions are not only cutting-edge but also user-friendly, allowing agencies to harness the full potential of uncrewed aerial systems,” said Steve King, MITRE, senior manager.

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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry.  Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.

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