The Department of Defense has designated the National All-Domain Warfighting Center (NADWC) in Michigan as a national unmanned aerial systems testing site. The announcement follows efforts by Congressmen John Moolenaar and Jack Bergman, along with Senators Elissa Slotkin and Gary Peters, to secure this status for the facility.
“Michigan is ready to lead the nation in drone innovation, testing, and manufacturing,” said Moolenaar. “Today’s announcement is an important step forward as we reenergize Michigan’s defense manufacturing industry. It will harness Michigan’s private sector innovators, manufacturing expertise, and advanced training facilities to help strengthen our national security.”
Slotkin stated, “When it comes to the next chapter of American defense innovation, I’m betting on Michigan. From the assembly line to advanced manufacturing, our state has always stepped up. Today, as drones reshape our national security, Michigan’s selection as a national drone testing site further solidifies our state as the center of this transformation. Michigan is the proof that cutting-edge defense technology can be designed, tested, and built with American supply chains, right here at home.”
Bergman commented on the importance of unmanned aerial systems: “Unmanned aerial systems are now a critical component of modern warfighting. I’m proud that Northern Michigan’s defense assets will play a key role in ensuring our Service Members can test and refine the most advanced unmanned aerial technologies. The unique geography and unparalleled capabilities of the National All Domain Warfighting Center are truly world-class, and it is encouraging to see the Department of War fully recognize the potential of NADWC and the surrounding region. I look forward to continuing our partnership to ensure our warfighters have access to the best systems and training anywhere in the world.”
Peters added: “Drones play an integral role in modern-day warfare, and the National All-Domain Warfighting Center in Northern Michigan is an ideal training ground to test these technologies and help ensure we maintain our air superiority around the world. I was proud to work alongside our Michigan delegation to push key Department of Defense officials and secure this new designation, which will only further cement Michigan as a key asset of our national defense strategy into the future.”
NADWC covers nearly 150,000 acres with 17,000 square miles of special use airspace for year-round multi-domain drone testing.
John Moolenaar currently represents Michigan’s 2nd district in Congress after succeeding Dave Camp in 2015. He has served since then following earlier roles in both chambers of Michigan’s legislature from 2003 through 2014. Born in Midland in 1961 and residing in Caledonia at age 61, Moolenaar graduated from Hope College with a Bachelor of Science degree.
