The National Unmanned Robotic Research and Development Center
will offer a 500' runway and circular landing pads, surrounded by
Class G airspace, capable of landing fixed wing aircraft including
military drones. The center will also include solution shops, and
hangers for students, inventors, technicians, and manufacturers. The
facilities will create a synergistic location for flying, testing,
rebuilding, and continued improvement of products. Gigabit enabled
office space, meeting areas, common areas, and computer labs will be
available.
The project builds on the
assets of Kentucky and the region. Kentucky is the second largest
exporter of aerospace products. The site is ideally located to satisfy
Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) guidelines. The Wendell H. Ford Airport
is a critical partner by providing opportunities for clients to fly in
for testing and facility utilization.
Future plans include additions for research and development of land based and underwater based drones.
AML Grants
The USA Drone Port was selected to receive a $1.5 million 2018 AML Pilot grant to construct a cutting-edge, indoor drone flight-testing facility, along with peripheral infrastructure.
The 10,000-square-foot facility will enable all-weather drone research and development and make available drone testing 24 hours a day to private industry, government, and educational institutions. The grant is funded by the U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) Abandoned Mine Lands and administered by the Perry County Fiscal Court.
The USA Drone Port will also be the benficiary of an AML grant awarded to the Troublesome Creek Environmental Authority for a $743,000 2019 AML Pilot grant to extend its sewer collection system while adding water service to the site.