We sift through manufacturer claims to identify the UAS best suited for your project and budget. Our team modifies, programs, and tests drones to fit specific research needs, ensuring that your project is efficient and cost-effective.
Drones Are Aircraft - No Matter How Small
At the University of Maryland’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations Center (UROC), we help researchers focus on what matters most: collecting data. We take care of the technical complexities of UAS operations—ensuring that the drone you use is the right fit for your research and that every step is legal, safe, and effective.
Tailored Drone Selection & Modification
Regulatory Compliance
Navigating the legal landscape of UAS operations is complicated. We ensure that every aspect of your drone flight is fully compliant with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, and we handle the paperwork required for waivers, certifications, and approvals.
Safety-First Operations
With our aviation-first approach, we prioritize safety in every stage of operation. Our expert pilots and engineers are committed to mitigating risks, providing a safety-driven framework for every flight. We ensure your research goes smoothly without the need for you to worry about the complexities of UAS operation.
Our Advantages
UROC stands apart as flexible, experienced, and fully equipped partner for UAS-based research. Here's how we can support your project:
Proximity to Uncontrolled Airspace
We operate on a non-tower airfield, located near established local flying areas in uncontrolled airspace-ideal for UAS operations with fewer regulatory restrictions.
FAA Waivers & COAs Expertise
Our team has extensive experience in obtaining FAA waivers and Certificates of Waiver or Authorization (COA), allowing us to operate UAS beyond standard Part 107 regulations. We navigate the bureaucratic hurdles so you don't have to.
Access to Special-Use Airspace
Through our established Commercial Services Agreement with the Navy, we have access to nearby special-use airspace, enabling us to conduct operations in more challenging environments when required.
12,000 Sq. Ft. Facility
Our facility includes conference rooms, offices, an engineering lab, and three hangar bays, providing the perfect environment for project planning, testing, and collaboration.
Diverse UAS Platforms
We have a wide range of UAS platforms, from the smallest consumer-grade drones to large, professional systems, as well as customizable drones built specifically for research purposes.
Design & Manufacturing Capabilities
Our engineers are skilled in the design and manufacture of small UAS and components, allowing us to tailor drones to your specific research needs.
Expert UAS Engineers & Pilots
Our team of small UAS engineers is well-versed in all types of drone hardware and software. Additionally, our Part 107-certified UAS operators have extensive military and civilian manned/unmanned flight experience, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
Mobile Operations Center
For remote research or testing, we provide a fully equipped Mobile Operations Center, enabling us to conduct extended operations away from our home base.
Collaboration with UMD MATRIX Lab
We have direct access to the UMD MATRIX Laboratory, state-of-the-art design/build/test facility that supports cutting-edge research and development.
University of Maryland UROC: Flexible, Experienced, and Equipped to Support UAS-Based Research Anywhere & Anytime
Ready to take your UAS-based research to new heights?
Contact us today to learn how UROC can support your next project. Whether you're at the beginning stages of planning or need advanced support for field operations, we're here to help.
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