Texarkana is set to become a hub for military drone innovation! A major $5 million Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant has been awarded to the Ark-Tex Council of Governments (ATCOG) to support a groundbreaking regional partnership.
The project brings together Texas A&M University-Texarkana, Texarkana College, and the Red River Army Depot (RRAD) to advance U.S. military drone technology. This investment is part of a larger statewide effort to strengthen military installations and protect local jobs.
**Who is doing what?**
* **Texas A&M-Texarkana:** Leading the charge on Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) battery development and testing. They are even creating a new professional certification for practicing engineers!
* **Texarkana College:** Serving as the lead workforce training provider, developing specialized coursework in drone production and advanced manufacturing.
* **Red River Army Depot:** Managing defense program components and integrating these new technologies into their modernization efforts.
This collaboration isn't just about tech; it’s about the local economy. By retraining current employees and preparing students for high-skill careers, Texarkana is securing its place at the forefront of defense manufacturing.
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