AgEagle Aerial Systems has announced a significant procurement by UT-Battelle, LLC, the managing entity of Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This acquisition includes a fleet of eBee X and eBee TAC drones, known for their advanced capabilities in commercial and government applications, including national security and emergency response.
A key factor in this procurement is the adherence of these drones to stringent compliance standards. The eBee TAC is distinguished by its inclusion in the Blue UAS Cleared List, a Department of Defense (DoD)-approved catalog of drones authorized for U.S. government use. This approval underscores the eBee TAC's compliance with cybersecurity requirements and its validation as safe for government operations. Meanwhile, the eBee X has achieved a unique distinction as the only Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved drone for Operations Over People (OOP) in the U.S. without requiring special waivers, setting a precedent in the drone industry for safety and regulatory compliance.
ORNL, the U.S. DOE’s premier facility for scientific research and energy analysis, will leverage the capabilities of the eBee X and eBee TAC drones in furthering its mission to address the nation’s energy, environmental, and security challenges. The deployment of AgEagle's drones is expected to enhance the laboratory's research capabilities and provide critical support in national security and emergency situations.
Grant Begley, Interim CEO of AgEagle, expressed pride in this collaboration, highlighting the importance of providing the U.S. Government with certified, secure drones that contribute significantly to research and national security efforts. "We are honored to be a trusted partner," Begley stated, emphasizing the company's commitment to advancing drone technology that meets the rigorous standards of government operations and can make a meaningful impact in various critical sectors.
This partnership between AgEagle and the U.S. Department of Energy through ORNL not only signifies a milestone for AgEagle in terms of government collaboration but also demonstrates the growing importance of drone technology in supporting the nation's strategic objectives across energy, environmental, and security domains.