# Navy Launches Ground-Based Aircraft Testing in Indiana

The U.S. Navy, in collaboration with the Indiana National Guard, has established the first ground-based sled track facility on the continental United States at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, to test aircraft countermeasures. This innovative testing method simulates flight conditions on the ground, significantly reducing costs and timelines compared to traditional aerial flight tests. The Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane leads this initiative, aiming to enhance testing efficiency for military aerial systems while lowering logistical challenges.

- **Why this matters:** This facility offers procurement professionals and contractors a cost-effective alternative to expensive flight testing, potentially reshaping future contract requirements and testing protocols.
- The partnership between federal and state military entities highlights opportunities for collaborative procurement and resource sharing.
- Companies specializing in testing technologies and countermeasure systems should evaluate how this ground-based approach may influence upcoming solicitations and contract scopes.
- This development indicates a shift toward innovative testing infrastructure investments, which may affect budgeting and acquisition strategies for aerial defense systems.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 23, 2026

### Government Entities
- Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane (NSWC Crane)
- Indiana National Guard
- U.S. Navy (Navy)
- U.S. Air Force (Air Force)
- U.S. Army (Army)

### Sources
- [
        The Navy found a cheaper way to test aerial military systems | Federal News Network](https://federalnewsnetwork.com/defense-main/2026/09/the-navy-found-a-cheaper-way-to-test-aerial-military-systems) - Federal News Network