Pond's design of a maintenance facility for the MQ-1B Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) demonstrates our expertise in creating tailored solutions for unique military requirements. The facility includes a single general maintenance hangar bay capable of accommodating four Predator aircraft or three MQ-9 Reaper aircraft. Collaborating closely with key stakeholders, including the 162nd Civil Engineer Squadron, 214th Reconnaissance Group, and Ft. Huachuca personnel, Pond designed the facility to support the LRE mission for MQ-1B Predator UAVs.

The scope of the project extended beyond the hangar, encompassing a general purpose/maintenance shop, battery charging room, storage and supply room, break room, conference room, administrative areas, restrooms and showers, and various utility spaces. The site features a concrete apron with connectivity to the existing West Apron, flight check area, mobile ground control station area, foundations for ground data terminals, water storage tanks for fire suppression, parking, access road, and stormwater management facilities. Pond self-performed 100% of the A-E scope, including architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, fire protection, surveying, and hydrology engineering. The project involved extensive coordination with subcontractors for geotechnical investigation, cost estimating, and commissioning.

Pond conducted a kick-off charrette to optimize room layouts, and the project was designed in Building Information Modeling (Autodesk Revit) and converted to Microstation for coordinated utilities and conflict resolution. Throughout the project, Pond emphasized sustainability, energy efficiency, and compliance with DoD design criteria. Quality management was paramount, with a project-specific QC plan, constructability reviews, and adherence to industry best practices. Pond also managed construction administration, including shop drawing reviews, on-site inspections, and material submittal reviews, ensuring the project's success from design through construction. Pond's comprehensive approach positions us as a trusted partner for military infrastructure projects, incorporating expertise in airfield pavements, subterranean utilities, permitting, and stormwater management.