Media Advisory: Virginia Tech opens new Counter-UAS Testing and Research Center to develop drone defense capability for the U.S. Army and civilian infrastructure
WHAT: Conflicts around the world have highlighted the alarming speed at which drones and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are advancing, posing a major threat to law enforcement, soldiers, and critical infrastructure. As the importance and need for counter-UAS technology grows, Virginia Tech is committed to being on the front lines of evaluating, building, and improving tomorrow’s technology.
In partnership with the U.S. Army and with support from Congress, Virginia Tech has established a state-of-the-art facility for counter-UAS research and operationally relevant testing. Members of the media are invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Counter-UAS Testing and Research Center, which will also include demonstrations of the technology. Attendees will include Senator Mark Warner, Representative Morgan Griffith, Army representatives, and university leadership.
The center combines specialized facilities with interdisciplinary expertise to develop innovative approaches for UAS threat detection and mitigation, in support of the nation’s counter-UAS priorities.
WHEN: Friday, August 28, 2026 at 10:00 A.M.
WHERE: Counter-UAS Testing and Research Center at Kentland Farm, 7411 Orchard Center Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24061
INTERVIEWS AVAILABLE:
Tombo Jones, Director, Virginia Tech Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership
Austin Phoenix, Director, Mission Systems Division, Virginia Tech National Security Institute
Eric Paterson, Executive Director, Virginia Tech National Security Institute
VISUALS: Guided tours featuring UAS targets, sensor technologies, and flight operations
WHY THIS MATTERS: As these technologies continue to reshape the operational environment, counter-UAS capabilities must evolve at an equally rapid pace. This requires more than developing better technologies; it demands an integrated approach that combines research and testing to deliver counter-UAS capabilities that are truly ready for real-world missions.
The largest proportion of Virginia Tech’s federal research portfolio is national security and defense-related. Virginia Tech’s Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership (MAAP) and Virginia Tech National Security Institute (VTNSI) have combined capabilities that seek to help the United States build a more robust security framework for determining which UAS and counter-UAS tactics are most optimal in different scenarios.
RSVP: Please RSVP to Margaret Ashburn in the Media Relations Office at mkashburn@vt.edu by Wednesday, August 26 at 12:00 p.m.
