FARGO (KFGO) - A new, top secret building is ready for the North Dakota Air National Guard's intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance group at Hector International Airport in Fargo.
The $7.3 million, 19,000 sq. ft. facility will house 200 personnel who collect and analyze information identifying and prioritizing enemy targets and analyzing enemy communication networks.
Wing Commander Colonel Thomas Hatley says since the 9-11 attacks, the desire for target analysis has been "insatiable", given the nation's involvement around the world.
Hatley says the Happy Hooligan's mission "touches points all over the world."
Since 2015, the intelligence squadrons have been working out of three separate buildings spread out across the base, including a former engine shop for F-16 fighters once flown by the 119th Wing. The 119th also has a separate mission, flying unmanned aerial vehicles.