PDW Opens a Cutting-Edge Facility to Mass-Produce Tactical Drones in Huntsville, Alabama

PDW Launches New Manufacturing Facility in Huntsville

Performance Drone Works (PDW), a pioneer in drone technology, has officially inaugurated its state-of-the-art Drone Factory 01 in Huntsville, Alabama. This expansive 90,000 square feet facility marks a significant milestone in PDW’s commitment to enhancing production capabilities for tactical drones. With a design aimed at delivering high-speed, high-quality manufacturing, this facility will support the rapid deployment of unmanned aircraft systems essential for both military operations and public safety.

Located conveniently near the U.S. Army's Redstone Arsenal, Drone Factory 01 will streamline the entire manufacturing process—from design and assembly to testing and final delivery. This integrated approach is crucial for meeting the increasing demand from U.S. and allied forces, aiming to enhance their operational readiness in a fast-evolving battlefield environment.

Increased Production Capacity

The new facility is engineered to scale up production significantly, with the capability to produce up to 350 C100 multi-mission unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and 5,000 AM-FPV attritable munitions each month. CEO and co-founder Ryan Gury emphasized the ethical responsibility of providing advanced technological tools to warfighters and first responders, stating, "This facility gives us the scale, speed, and control needed to deliver mission-critical systems ahead of the threat."

The C100 drone, known for its modular architecture, is able to accommodate various payloads, thus maximizing its versatility in reconnaissance missions and operational impact. PDW's robust partnerships with the U.S. Army, including contracts for the Medium Range Reconnaissance (MRR) program, underline the strategic importance of the C100 in modern military operations.

Economic Impact

The establishment of Drone Factory 01 is not only a step forward for PDW but also a boost for the local economy. The facility is expected to create over 500 new jobs and generate an economic impact exceeding $81 million annually in the greater Huntsville area. This development is a testament to PDW's commitment to fostering local employment and contributing positively to community growth.

Huntsville's rich history in defense and aerospace, coupled with PDW's innovative approach, positions the city as a formidable hub for advanced manufacturing. PDW COO James Slider remarked, "Huntsville is more than our headquarters. It's our edge. The innovation coming out of this city is reshaping the pace of defense manufacturing."

Commitment to Clean Manufacturing

In addition to its production capabilities, Drone Factory 01 boasts advanced quality engineering capabilities and utilizes Lit Thinking's Visium Far-UVC devices for pathogen reduction, achieving a remarkable 99.9% pathogen reduction rate. This makes DF01 one of the cleanest drone manufacturing facilities worldwide, ensuring that health and safety standards are upheld alongside production efficiency.

Mayor Tommy Battle underscored the significance of PDW’s expansion, highlighting its role in strengthening Huntsville's advanced manufacturing sector and enhancing the city’s stature in the defense and aerospace industry. The Governor of Alabama, Kay Ivey, also praised the facility, stating that it will not only deliver critical technology for military use but also enhance job opportunities and economic prospects for the people of Alabama.

Future Prospects

As Ryan Gury affirmed, this opening is just the beginning. "Today is the day the least number of drones will exist in the world – it's all growth from here. We are confident that Drone Factory 01 will contribute significantly to the rapid production and adoption of small UAS on a global scale."

With plans for future expansions and a keen focus on innovation and collaboration, PDW aims to solidify its leadership in the drone technology space, addressing both national security needs and public safety initiatives. The establishment of Drone Factory 01 is a pivotal moment in the journey towards American drone dominance, with more developments expected to follow soon.