LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Through the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Initiative, some Michiganders will soon see drones in action — delivering medical supplies and performing a range of tasks.
AAM, launched July 17, aims to “accelerate the testing, production, and integration of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, in sectors such as health care, emergency services, research, and automotive logistics.” This initiative is expected to increase jobs and strengthen domestic manufacturing of drone technology in Southeast Michigan.
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In July 2024, the state invested upwards of $6 million to fund the first round of AAM research. This year, the state will put over $4 million into four new projects.
CVS Health.
Michigan will be the first state to support CVS Health’s drone initiative, which will use drones to make it “faster, simpler and more environmentally sustainable” to get critical medications to patients. This launch will primarily take place in Troy, Michigan.
Traverse Connect.
The state’s partnership with Traverse Launch will allow for the transportation of medical supplies, laboratory samples, and equipment across Munson Healthcare’s network of clinics.
“Traverse Connect and its partners are honored to receive additional funding from the Advanced Air Mobility Activation Fund for expanded use of uncrewed aerial systems for medical supply and sample delivery across Munson Healthcare clinics and facilities,” Warren Call, president and CEO of Traverse Connect, said. “Northern Michigan’s emerging aerial mobility hub of public, private, and nonprofit partners is driving innovation and economic opportunity, while developing solutions for local and statewide challenges.”
Jack Demmer Automotive Group.
Another project, with drone companies DroneUp, Blueflite, and Airspace Link, will use drones for the rapid delivery of high-demand automotive parts within a 12-mile radius of Jack Demmer Ford dealerships.
University of Michigan.
The state will also partner with the University of Michigan to foster student’s understanding of drone technology. In addition, this program will use funding to establish a Detroit-Ann Arbor air mobility corridor, in a section of airspace, that will link a drone hub at Michigan Central with a new hub to be established at the University of Michigan.
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“As the global competition for aviation and autonomous aerial mobility heats up, the United States must use every asset we have to design, test, and build the uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) technologies we will need to strengthen critical supply chains, protect our national security, and reduce our dependence on foreign manufacturing,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. “Michigan can lead the way.”
Innovation built in Michigan.
State Rep. Ron Robinson (R-Utica) also applauded the launch of AAM in a press release.
“This initiative will launch careers, modernize supply chains, and make sure that the next generation of American-made aerospace innovation is built right here in Michigan,” Robinson said. “Southeast Michigan has long been the heart of the auto industry. With this investment, we have the chance to also lead the future of air mobility.”