FAA-designated test site connects companies, researchers and public-safety agencies with resources to develop and commercialize uncrewed aviation technologies.
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. — Gov. Mike Braun launched the Midwest UAS Test Site of Indiana in Terre Haute, expanding the state’s capabilities in drone testing, autonomous aviation and defense technology development.
The initiative provides a regional resource for aerospace and defense companies, public-safety agencies, researchers and other organizations developing next-generation uncrewed aircraft systems, or UAS. It is now accepting members and supporting flight-test operations.
“Indiana’s defense sector is taking off like never before as we continue to attract new assets and installations, accelerate innovation, and support industry investment,” said Gov. Braun. “The launch of this new UAS Test Site positions our state as a defense and national security leader, giving companies another reason to build, test and grow here in Indiana while strengthening our ability to develop solutions that power the warfighter.”
FAA-Designated Network Supports Drone Testing and Commercialization
The Midwest UAS Test Site is one of nine UAS test sites designated by the Federal Aviation Administration. It operates through a network of testing locations, airspace and technical partners.
The FAA designation provides a framework for coordinating research, flight testing, experimentation and certification flights. Through these capabilities, the initiative aims to accelerate technology development and help companies move drone and aviation technologies toward commercialization.
Participation is open to organizations ranging from startups and component suppliers to established aerospace and defense companies. Members can work with the test site to identify testing resources, plan flight operations and pursue the approvals needed to evaluate their technologies.
Connecting Aviation Innovation With Indiana Manufacturing
State leaders highlighted the opportunity to connect flight testing with Indiana’s manufacturing capabilities, supporting a path from technology development to production.
“Indiana defense is powered by commitment and collaboration across government, industry, academic and military,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Chuck Goodrich. “By connecting FAA-designated test-site capabilities with the most manufacturing-intensive economy in the country, we are creating a direct path from testing to production. That will attract investment, support high-wage jobs and strengthen domestic aerospace supply chains.”
The launch included a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by state and federal officials, defense industry representatives and academic leaders. Gov. Braun and U.S. Sen. Todd Young delivered keynote remarks addressing the region’s role in advancing American drone and counter-drone technologies.
“America cannot afford to fall behind our adversaries in unmanned systems. The Midwest UAS Test Site helps ensure the next generation of drones and counter-drone technology is designed, tested and built here in the United States,” said Sen. Young. “Indiana is uniquely positioned to lead this effort, and I will keep working in Washington to make sure our state has every tool it needs to help unleash American drone dominance.”
Terre Haute Hub Anchors Midwest and Great Lakes Collaboration
The Midwest UAS Test Site is led by the Applied Research Institute (ARI) and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), with support from public and private partners.
Participating partners include Purdue University, Pierce Aerospace, Windracers, the Indiana National Guard and Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane.
Terre Haute Regional Airport serves as one operational hub for the initiative, whose activities extend across the Midwest and Great Lakes region. Additional hubs are expected to be announced in the coming months.
The network brings together government, industry, academic and military expertise to support drone development, testing and commercialization while strengthening Indiana’s role in aerospace and defense innovation.
Companies and organizations interested in membership, testing services or partnership opportunities can visit midwestuastestsite.us.
