ND North News

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has increased the ceiling of its contract with General Dynamics to accommodate an expansion in test activities and missile track fusion work at Grand Forks and other sites for the Space Development Agency (SDA). This adjustment brings the total value of the contract, expected to conclude by September 30, 2029, to over $1.1 billion.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, chair of the Senate Armed Services Airland Subcommittee, emphasized the significance of this development. "With the 319th Reconnaissance Wing flying RQ-4 Global Hawks and providing vital warfighting and ground-based capabilities, the innovative defense ecosystem at Grand Forks Air Force Base is unmatched," he stated. "Raising the contract ceiling will allow General Dynamics to better support our Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture ground management, integration, operation, and sustainment efforts."

In April, Senator Cramer was joined by General Michael Guetlein from the DOD and SDA Director Derek Tournear for a tour of North Dakota's defense capabilities. The group visited updated facilities at SDA Operations Center North and Cavalier Space Force Station.

Previously, Senator Cramer played a pivotal role in launching the SDA Operations Center North at Grand Forks Air Force Base and participated in several initiatives related to workforce development between SDA and the University of North Dakota.