WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) announced it has increased the size of its contract with General Dynamics, a global aerospace and defense company, by $34,273,921 to reflect growing numbers of test activities and missile track fusion work performed at Grand Forks and other sites for the Space Development Agency (SDA). This announcement brings the total cumulative value of the contract, which is expected to be completed by Sep. 30, 2029, to $1,106,722,296.
As chair of the Senate Armed Services (SASC) Airland Subcommittee, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) leads the effort to advance space-based capabilities and missions, both in North Dakota and across the nation.
“With the 319th Reconnaissance Wing flying RQ-4 Global Hawks and providing vital warfighting and ground-based capabilities, the innovative defense ecosystem at Grand Forks Air Force Base is unmatched,” said Cramer. “Raising the contract ceiling will allow General Dynamics to better support our Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture ground management, integration, operation, and sustainment efforts. This crucial investment is proof of the global expertise that resides right here in Grand Forks.”
In April, General Michael Guetlein, the DOD’s Golden Dome leader, joined Cramer and SDA Director Derek Tournear in touring North Dakota’s defense capabilities. The group saw recent updates at SDA Operations Center North and visited Cavalier Space Force Station. During the visit, the group viewed on-going U.S. Space Force activities throughout the state.
Last year, Cramer flipped the switch to bring the SDA Operations Center North online at Grand Forks Air Force Base (GFAFB), participated in a Grand Forks Base Retention Committee meeting, toured the University of North Dakota (UND) National Security Corridor, and announced new Navy personnel at GFAFB. Cramer also joined E-Space CEO Greg Wyler in meeting with UND faculty and SDA staff to discuss workforce development and initiatives, and announced educational initiatives between SDA and UND.