ND North News

Senator Kevin Cramer, representing North Dakota in the U.S. Senate, shared updates on August 21, 2025, about the Versus UAS/Counter-UAS Symposium held at Camp Grafton. The event highlighted advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS technologies in North Dakota.

In his first post of the day, Senator Cramer stated: "Honored to kick off the Versus UAS/Counter-UAS Symposium at Camp Grafton, highlighting North Dakota’s innovative defense ecosystem and our state’s growth as a UAS center of excellence. Welcome to North Dakota and Camp Grafton!" (August 21, 2025).

Later that afternoon, he commented on a presentation by Dr. Oleksandra Molloy: "During today’s Versus UAS/Counter-UAS Symposium at Camp Grafton, Dr. Oleksandra Molloy did a great job examining the tactical use of drones in modern warfare in Ukraine. We are watching drone warfare evolve before our eyes, demonstrating the need for the Golden Dome missile" (August 21, 2025).

Senator Cramer also described a discussion with Brigadier General Mitch Johnson of the North Dakota National Guard: "Enjoyed today's discussion with Adjutant General of the @NDNationalGuard Brig. Gen. Mitch Johnson about the ways North Dakota is supporting the nation’s growing demand for UAS and counter-UAS testing, training, and technology transition infrastructure. Today's Versus" (August 21, 2025).

North Dakota has positioned itself as a leader in unmanned aerial systems research and development through investments in test sites and partnerships with federal agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The state hosts one of seven FAA-designated UAS test sites nationwide.