Grand Forks, N.D. –Congressman Rick Berg today applauded North Dakota’s continued leadership in unmanned aerial systems development at the Annual International Aerial Robotics Competition (IARC), the world's premier aerial robotics challenge that has worked to advance state-of-the-art advances in aerial robotic behavior.

Berg welcomed the college students participating in the competition to North Dakota, noting North Dakota’s growing role as a leader in the research, training and development of unmanned aerial technology.

“North Dakota has established itself as a key leader in unmanned aircraft—technology that holds tremendous potential for our state and greater opportunities for agriculture, education and border security,” Berg stated.  “With the arrival of Global Hawk aircraft at Grand Forks Air Force Base, the opening of the new UND Unmanned Aircraft Systems Training Facility, and now by hosting the International Aerial Robotics Competition, our state continues to reaffirm its commitment to advancing this important technology.”

Berg toured several student work stations, noting “It’s so exciting to see so many students dedicated to finding new ways to use aerial robotics.  I have no doubt that the innovation seen at this competition will serve as fuel for new opportunities and advances for this technology, both here in North Dakota and around the world.”

This marks the first time that IARChas been hosted in North Dakota.  Previously held in Puerto Rico, the competition moved to North Dakota because of the state’s strengthened emphasis on aerospace and unmanned aerial systems. 

The competition, held August 8-12 at the Betty Engelstad Sioux Center in Grand Forks, features students from 13 schools worldwide (United States, India, China, Chile, and the United Arab Emirates) who are competing for a $20,000 prize.  Students are required to build and program a robot capable of flight and complete a mission as designated by IARC. 

Berg will also attend and make remarks at the grand opening and dedication of the UND Unmanned Aircraft Systems Training Facility, held at Grand Forks Air Force Base at 1:30pm today.

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