Oregon City Unleashes Cutting-Edge Counter-Drone Tech In Battle Against Rogue Aerial Threats

The Proven in Pendleton c-UAS Challenge, hosted by the Oregon UAS Accelerator, promises to bring together some of the most innovative start-ups in counter-drone technology. The challenge aims to foster a new generation of startups that can address the critical threat posed by drone incursions.

Eighty-four percent of NATO forward bases have reported some form of drone incursion in the past year alone, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions. The Oregon UAS Accelerator’s competition offers more than $120,000 in prize money, with the top winner receiving a $100,000 non-dilutive grant.

The Challenge will offer finalists a chance to demonstrate their technologies to a panel of judges at the AUVSI Spring Symposium and one month of free flight testing at the Pendleton UAS Test Range. The Accelerator is in the process of onboarding its second cohort of startups, comprising five to seven fledgling UAS companies at a time.

Since its inception, four members of the initial cohort have received investment or partnership opportunities, including a contract with the Oregon prison system for counter-UAS trial monitoring. Companies that have already benefited from the Accelerator’s program include one startup that secured a contract and another military technology company that “went dark,” indicating a partnership or agreement with a major investor.

The new cohort of startups will receive $40,000 in non-dilutive grants to fuel their growth without sacrificing equity. The Oregon UAS Accelerator’s focus on innovation and collaboration is expected to attract a diverse range of participants, from civilian startups to military technology companies. Candidates must undergo a competitive selection process, which includes an artificial intelligence review of their application, consultations with business and technical mentors, and a pitch and Q&A session with the Accelerator’s selection committee.

The Proven in Pendleton c-UAS Challenge serves as a shining example of the innovative spirit and entrepreneurial drive that is driving the development of counter-drone technology. With drone-related incidents on the rise, the need for effective counter-drone measures has never been more pressing.