Advancing Drone Defense in the Pacific Northwest
The rapid evolution of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) has brought both exciting opportunities and new challenges for airspace security. Nowhere was this more evident than at the 2025 Proven in Pendleton Counter-UAS Challenge, held at the renowned Pendleton UAS Test Range in Oregon. This annual event, in partnership with the AUVSI Cascade Chapter Spring Symposium, has become the Pacific Northwest’s largest gathering for drone innovation, attracting industry leaders, startups, and public safety officials from across the country.
In this comprehensive recap, we’ll dive into the event’s highlights, introduce the five groundbreaking finalists, explore their innovative solutions, and reveal which teams took home top honors. Whether you’re a drone enthusiast, a security professional, or an industry stakeholder, this article will give you an inside look at the technologies shaping the future of airspace defense.
Meet the Five Finalists: Pioneers in Counter-UAS Technology
The 2025 Proven in Pendleton Counter-UAS Challenge began with over 30 applicants, each vying for a chance to showcase their solutions to real-world drone threats. After a rigorous evaluation process, five standout companies were selected as finalists, representing a diverse cross-section of counter-UAS innovation.
AIRSHIP Technologies Group
Overview:
AIRSHIP Technologies Group is known for its advanced, long-endurance airships and hybrid aerial systems. Their solutions are designed for persistent surveillance and aerial security, offering extended flight times and the ability to monitor large areas. By integrating advanced sensors and communications, AIRSHIP’s platforms provide a unique vantage point for detecting and tracking unauthorized drones.
Key Innovation:
- Long-endurance airships for persistent surveillance
- Hybrid systems integrating multiple sensor types
- Applications in border security, critical infrastructure, and public safety
Cach AI
Overview:
Cach AI is a rising star in the field of artificial intelligence-driven drone detection and security. Their platform leverages machine learning to identify, classify, and track drones in complex environments, providing actionable intelligence to operators in real time.
Key Innovation:
- AI-powered detection and classification
- Real-time threat assessment
- Scalable solutions for both urban and rural deployments
Hover
Overview:
Hover has redefined kinetic counter-drone defense with its fully automated turret system. Utilizing advanced image recognition, LiDAR, and radar, Hover’s solution can detect and neutralize fast-moving FPV drones. Their approach moves beyond traditional electronic warfare, offering a direct and effective means to protect critical infrastructure and public spaces.
Key Innovation:
- Automated kinetic defense turret
- Multi-sensor fusion for detection and tracking
- Real-world deployments in public safety and infrastructure protection
Tiami Networks
Overview:
Tiami Networks is at the forefront of integrated sensing and communications (ISAC) for drone detection. Their PolyEdge™ Multifunction Sensor combines 5G-based passive radar with machine learning to deliver comprehensive, real-time tracking. The sensors are compact, self-powered, and designed for rapid, scalable deployment.
Key Innovation:
- 5G-based passive radar and ISAC
- Machine learning for enhanced detection accuracy
- Compact, scalable, and easy to deploy
Zing Drone Solutions
Overview:
Zing Drone Solutions impressed judges with their practical and innovative approach to counter-UAS challenges. Their solutions focus on real-world usability and integration with existing security systems, making them an attractive option for a wide range of customers.
Key Innovation:
- User-friendly, integrable counter-UAS solutions
- Emphasis on operational readiness and field deployment
- Broad applicability across commercial and government sectors
Event Highlights: Two Days of Innovation, Demonstration, and Collaboration
The Proven in Pendleton Challenge is more than a competition-it’s a showcase of the latest advancements in drone defense and a catalyst for industry collaboration. This year’s event featured two action-packed days:
Day 1: Live Demonstrations at Pendleton UAS Test Range
On April 23, each finalist put their technology to the test in real-world scenarios at the Pendleton UAS Test Range. The range, which offers over 14,000 square miles of FAA-approved airspace, provided a dynamic environment for evaluating detection, tracking, mitigation, and field readiness.
Judging Criteria Included:
- Detection effectiveness against various drone types
- Real-time data transfer and actionable intelligence
- Tracking accuracy and identification capabilities
- Field readiness and ease of deployment for end-users
Industry experts, public safety officials, and media-including coverage from Apple Valley News Now-witnessed firsthand how these technologies are poised to protect airspace in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
Day 2: Pitch Presentations at AUVSI Cascade Chapter Spring Symposium
On April 24, the finalists took the stage at the AUVSI Cascade Chapter Spring Symposium. Each team delivered an 8-minute pitch, followed by a Q&A session with a distinguished panel of judges: Tom Perkowski (Apex View), Keith Brendley (Artis), and Paul Allen (Advanced Aircraft Company).
Pitch Evaluation Focused On:
- Technical innovation and feasibility
- Commercial viability and scalability
- Real-world impact and integration potential
The symposium brought together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders, fostering networking and knowledge sharing throughout the event.
Winners & Prizes: Recognizing Excellence in Counter-UAS Innovation
After careful scoring of both the live demonstration and pitch presentations, the winners of the 2025 Proven in Pendleton Counter-UAS Challenge were announced:
- 🥇 Grand Prize ($100,000 non-dilutive grant): Zing Drone Solutions
- 🥈 Second Place ($20,000 non-dilutive grant): Hover
All five finalists-AIRSHIP Technologies Group, Cach AI, Hover, Tiami Networks, and Zing Drone Solutions-received one month of complimentary testing access at the Pendleton UAS Test Range, providing them with valuable resources to further refine and validate their solutions.
“Feeling truly grateful and honored after an incredible two days at the Oregon UAS Accelerator Proven in Pendleton Counter-UAS Challenge. The energy, the innovation, and the community support made this a landmark moment for the drone, robotics, and AI ecosystem in Oregon. I want to extend a special thank you to our distinguished panel of judges for their expertise and thoughtful evaluation, and congratulations to all of our outstanding finalists and winners.”
– Joseph Wyno, Executive Director, Oregon UAS Accelerator
The Pendleton Advantage: Why the Challenge Matters
Pendleton, Oregon, has rapidly become a hub for UAS innovation, thanks to its world-class test range, collaborative ecosystem, and commitment to supporting startups and industry leaders alike. The Proven in Pendleton Challenge exemplifies the city’s role in advancing airspace security and fostering next-generation solutions.
Key Benefits of the Pendleton UAS Test Range:
- 14,000+ square miles of controlled airspace
- State-of-the-art facilities and support staff
- Flexible, real-world testing environments
- Strong partnerships with public agencies and private industry
Looking Ahead: Fostering the Future of Drone Defense
As drone technology continues to evolve, so do the threats and opportunities it presents. The Proven in Pendleton Counter-UAS Challenge not only recognizes today’s innovators but also strengthens the collaborative ecosystem driving unmanned systems forward.
The 2025 Proven in Pendleton Counter-UAS Challenge showcased the best in drone defense innovation, bringing together visionaries, experts, and community leaders. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners for their groundbreaking work!
What’s Next?
-
Oregon Innovator Showcase:
Stay tuned for the upcoming Oregon Innovator Showcase, where the five members of our 2025 Spring Cohort will present their groundbreaking UAS technologies and solutions. -
Announcing Our 2025 Summer Cohort:
We’ll soon be revealing the innovators selected for our 2025 Summer Cohort-be the first to meet the next wave of UAS pioneers. -
Stay Connected:
Follow the Oregon UAS Accelerator for the latest updates on future programs, accelerator opportunities, and industry events. -
Partner & Test at Pendleton:
Interested in advancing your own technology? Explore partnership and testing opportunities at the Pendleton UAS Test Range-one of the nation’s premier sites for unmanned systems development.
Are you ready to shape the future of airspace security?
Connect with the Oregon UAS Accelerator or Pendleton UAS Test Range to learn more about upcoming challenges, testing opportunities, and how you can get involved.
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