By Tim Ryan

Hey, Hampton Roads! Buckle up—our region’s very own DroneUp is calling balls and strikes, and this time, they’re not just flying high locally—they’re sounding the alarm for the entire nation. Tom Walker, the fearless CEO of this game-changing drone services startup, just dropped a scorching op-ed on DroneLife.com that’s got us buzzing with pride and urgency. Titled “America Is Flying Blind: Why We Need a National Drone Strategy Now,” it’s a wake-up call that’s as bold as it is visionary—and it’s coming straight outta Hampton Roads.
DroneUp, one of the most electrifying startups to emerge from our 757 ecosystem, isn’t messing around. Walker argues that the U.S. is stumbling into the drone era without a playbook, risking everything from national security to global tech leadership. “We have Air Traffic Control for planes—why are we pretending drones don’t need the same?” he demands. It’s a mic-drop moment that highlights how drones are already reshaping warfare, disaster response, and logistics—yet America’s lagging behind while other countries race ahead. And guess what? DroneUp’s right here in our backyard, ready to lead the charge.
Innovate Hampton Roads has been shouting DroneUp’s praises for years, and for good reason. Founded by Walker—a former Navy officer turned tech trailblazer—this company’s pushing boundaries with its interoperability platform, transforming industries like delivery and emergency response. They’re not just a startup; they’re a symbol of what happens when Hampton Roads’ grit meets cutting-edge innovation. But Walker’s op-ed isn’t just flexing DroneUp’s muscle—it’s a rallying cry for a national drone strategy to unlock the full potential of this tech revolution.
So, what’s next for DroneUp and our region? If Walker’s vision takes flight, Hampton Roads could be ground zero for a drone-powered future—think jobs, investment, and a spotlight on our entrepreneurial hustle. This isn’t just about one company; it’s about our whole community soaring to new heights. Check out the full op-ed and let’s get loud—because when DroneUp talks, the world better listen. Hampton Roads, we’re not just in the game; we’re rewriting the rules!

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