UND, Joint Interagency Task Force 401 sign memorandum of understanding to assess counter-drone technology

October 16, 2026 - 02:17

The University of North Dakota has entered a formal agreement with Joint Interagency Task Force 401 to test and assess technology designed to counter unmanned aircraft systems. The memorandum of understanding positions the university as a key partner in efforts to evaluate tools that detect, track, and disable hostile drones.

Senator John Hoeven said UND is the first and only university in the nation that will serve as a clearinghouse for the task force. That role means the school will help coordinate testing, gather data, and provide independent analysis of counter-drone systems submitted by manufacturers and government agencies.

The arrangement reflects growing concern about the misuse of small drones near military installations, airports, and critical infrastructure. Task Force 401 was established to address those threats and to speed up the process of identifying effective countermeasures.

University officials said the partnership builds on existing research programs in aviation, radar, and autonomous systems. Students and faculty are expected to take part in field evaluations and technical reviews.

Hoeven noted that the collaboration could bring additional federal support and private sector interest to the region. He added that having a single academic clearinghouse will reduce duplication and give decision makers clearer information about which technologies actually work in real world conditions.