About the UMD UAS Research and Operations Center

Mission and Vision

Support University and other cutting-edge research employing Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), and further the integration of UAS and other advanced aviation systems into the United States National Airspace System, with particular emphasis on the State of Maryland.

UROC is what UMD faculty and students think of when they need to employ UAS in their research projects. We are what public and private entities think of when they have the need to modify and operate one-of-a-kind UAS to conduct unique missions anywhere and anytime. We are known and trusted by FAA and others to conduct safe and secure operations within the United States National Airspace System.

Furthering Advanced Aviation in Maryland

From long-range Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations crossing Chesapeake Bay to demonstrating drone delivery of medical packages on Maryland’s rural eastern shore, we are setting the stage for the future. UROC is also at the forefront of efforts to prepare Maryland for other advanced aviation technologies such as eVTOLs. Our Director has a seat on the Maryland Advanced Air Mobility Council, which aims to identify infrastructure, public policy, public outreach, and resources required to let the state take a leading role in the nation as these technologies and the rules governing them mature.

Tailor-Made Solutions

UROC’s in-house developed Chimera UAS were designed from the ground up to support cutting-edge research led by UMD faculty and others focusing on using autonomous multi-agent systems (intelligent swarms). These drones use 3-D printing coupled with open-source hardware and software to deliver maximum flexibility for getting research up in the air.

UROC also addresses the needs of public and private entities with innovative, tailored solutions. Our varied fleet of high-end commercial UAS spans the breadth of UAS sizes and capabilities. With access to restricted military airspace and established status as a public entity, we can partner to conduct operations beyond the limitations of Part 107.

Let's Get the Research Flying

Our outreach efforts and internships help cultivate the next generation of innovators, supporting economic diversification and workforce development in Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic region.

At UROC, we collaborate with faculty, researchers, and students to simplify the process of advancing UAS capabilities and conducting flight operations. Our team handles the engineering, testing, and operational logistics, allowing you to focus on your research without the added burden of learning complex systems or navigating tedious processes. Through internships and student engagement, we also ignite opportunities for hands-on learning and innovation, empowering the next generation of engineers and researchers to push the boundaries of UAS technology.