Senators introduce bill to establish drone production facility in Texarkana
TEXARKANA, Texas (KETK) — U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) met with Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and John Boozman (R-Ark.) to introduce a bill that would establish a drone production facility in Texarkana.
The senators met on Tuesday to present the SkyFoundry Act of 2025, which would create a drone production facility, SkyFoundry, at the Red River Army Depot (RRAD) in Texarkana. This bill would allow RRAD to “develop, produce and field drones for the Department of Defense.”
“Establishing a drone manufacturing facility at the Red River Army Depot will help ensure that the United States remains at the forefront of drone production. I’m proud to see the Lone Star State continuing to lead in defense innovation, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress to swiftly pass this legislation.”
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz
The SkyFoundry Act of 2025 will:
- Create a production and innovation facility for the development of small unmanned aircraft systems.
- Use a Government-Owned, Government-Operated Contractor Augmented (GOGO/CA) model, which blends military, civilian and contract personnel.
- Encourages public-private partnerships with industry, academia and nonprofits
- RRAD supports 3,500 direct jobs with over 9,100 total jobs. This provides an economic impact of at least $1.6 billion annually to the region.
The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, TexAmericas Center and the City Manager of Texarkana said that they all proudly support the bill that strengthens national defense and opens the door for jobs and innovation.
“The Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce thanks Senators Ted Cruz, John Boozman, Tom Cotton, and John Cornyn for sponsoring the SkyFoundry Act of 2025, which supports the rapid development and production of small unmanned aircraft systems and emphasizes the use of existing Army Depot facilities. Red River Army Depot is well positioned to meet the criteria outlined in the bill, with over 15,000 acres, 8 million square feet of facilities, and a central location near four states. The Chamber commends RRAD for its flexibility and readiness to support future innovation in defense manufacturing. RRAD has long been a vital economic engine for the Texarkana region. This legislation reinforces its strategic value and opens the door for even greater impact on jobs, innovation, and national security. The Chamber stands ready to support the SkyFoundry Program and advocate for continued investment in Red River Army Depot.”
President and CEO of the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce Robin Hickerson
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