Lafayette, of all places, could become a major player in the drone industry.

Earlier this month, global drone manufacturer DMR Technologies announced it will house its manufacturing base in Lafayette, where it will employ more than 500 people and build its Field Ranger X50. The 10-foot by 10-foot device can weigh 220 pounds when its 13-gallon tank is full and fly for nine minutes on a fully charged battery.

The announcement was the latest of several by drone companies that are setting up shop in the Acadiana area, spawning a new industry sector in the process. Others include logistics company Blueflite and services company FlyGuys .

Bruce Bosworth is among the local players in this emerging field, which has the potential to alter the way many businesses in operate in the deca

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