Indiana Delegation Pushes Army to Approve Premier Test Range Designation

On September 30, 2026, Senators Jim Banks and Todd Young, alongside Indiana’s congressional representatives, urged the U.S. Army to designate the Camp Atterbury and Muscatatuck Urban Training Center as Premier Test Ranges under the Permissive Test Range Expansion Initiative (PTREI). This designation aims to facilitate expanded commercial access to Army testing environments for critical technologies in unmanned systems, counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), electronic warfare, long-range fires, and low-cost interceptors. Senators noted that these sites are equipped for testing without requiring baseline infrastructure investment, positioning them strategically to support rapid advancements in defense technologies.

The request underscores the strategic importance of Camp Atterbury and Muscatatuck in enhancing the Army's capacity to conduct realistic operational testing of innovative technologies. The facilities are seen as uniquely positioned for their ability to facilitate quick transitions from development to deployment, a crucial aspect for emerging defense needs. But while the letter reflects a strong advocacy for designating these facilities as test ranges, it is important to note that this request does not equate to an approved designation or an open solicitation for funds. No budget allocations, procurement schedules, or award amounts have been disclosed at this stage, highlighting an uncertain path towards actualizing these proposed benefits for defense contractors.

Senator Banks emphasized the readiness of Indiana facilities in his statement, remarking, "Camp Atterbury and Muscatatuck are ready to help the Army move cutting-edge defense technology from development to the battlefield. Designating these facilities as Premier Test Ranges would accelerate innovation, strengthen our military, and expand Indiana’s role in supporting our national defense." This sentiment is echoed by Senator Young, who articulated that these facilities play a vital role in preparing the military for future threats, with a focus on ensuring service members possess the capabilities necessary to confront emerging challenges effectively.

The advocacy to designate Camp Atterbury and Muscatatuck as Premier Test Ranges is particularly significant given the evolving nature of defense technology. As defense contractors and innovators alike strive to bridge the gap between private sector innovation and military application, this designation could prove vital in enhancing the testing capabilities available to them. However, contractors should carefully assess how their needs align with the current capabilities of the proposed test ranges, distinguishing the call for designation from tangible procurement opportunities that would warrant their direct involvement. While the sites' operational readiness without additional infrastructure investments is an attractive proposition, potential contractors should keep in mind the absence of any specific infrastructure projects or related contracts as of now.

In this context, the potential benefits of the requested designation cannot be overstated. The combined advantages offered by Camp Atterbury’s maneuver space and Muscatatuck’s urban landscape create an environment ripe for the testing of advanced technologies. Not only could this enhance the Army’s experimental capabilities, but it could serve as a catalyst for innovation within the defense contracting community. If the request is acted upon favorably, it may lead to a competitive edge for contractors who are prepared to engage in testing their technologies in the Army’s supported environments.

• Defense contractors developing unmanned systems and counter-UAS technologies may experience enhanced testing opportunities if the sites are designated as Premier Test Ranges.
• Currently, there is no formal application process established for accessing these facilities despite the congressional delegation’s advocacy.
• Companies should evaluate whether their technological tests correspond with Camp Atterbury and Muscatatuck’s capabilities and potential advantages.
• No funding or procurement schedule has been specified; the request remains an advocacy for future consideration.
• The designation could significantly speed up the transition of technologies from R&D into operational settings for the Army.
• Continued congressional support may signal future opportunities for partnerships between the Army and private sector innovators.