STATEWIDE—Indiana Governor Mike Braun signed an executive order on Wednesday establishing the Indiana Initiative for Drone Dominance Task Force to position the state as a national leader in drone technology and airspace security.
Working in collaboration with U.S. Senator Todd Young, the Governor stated the move is intended to align Indiana with the federal mission of “American drone dominance” and support President Trump’s executive orders on the sector.
“Indiana’s advanced manufacturing capacity and our concentration of defense and research assets make us uniquely suited to lead in America’s pursuit of drone dominance,” Governor Braun said.
The task force will leverage the state’s unique attributes, including its robust advanced manufacturing industry, expertise from NSWC Crane, restricted airspace over military assets like Camp Atterbury and the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, and established university research programs.
The primary goal of the task force is to develop a strategic plan that capitalizes on a projected $59 billion North American drone market by 2030. Key priorities include:
- Developing a cross-sector aerial test corridor connecting NSWC Crane, Camp Atterbury, and the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center.
- Strengthening Indiana’s drone manufacturing supply chain and encouraging the growth of small firms.
- Expanding public safety applications of drones, particularly during major events.
- Exploring new infrastructure for the detection, tracking, and neutralization of unauthorized drones.
- Supporting workforce training programs in partnership with Indiana colleges and universities.
- Maintaining a strong commitment to personal privacy and safety in all drone policies.
Senator Young praised the collaboration, noting that drones are “increasingly critical to our economy and national security.” The task force is charged with coordinating efforts across government, academia, and industry to drive innovation and empower the U.S. drone industry.
