FORT WAYNE – Today, at the 5th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit hosted by U.S. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Acting Secretary of the Navy Hon. Hung Cao’s announced that Naval Support Activity Crane was selected as one of four Navy installations to advance private sector proposals for large-scale energy and technology infrastructure. The announcement marks a major win for Indiana.
The initiative leverages Federal land to accelerate reliable, independent power generation—including small modular reactors—while supporting AI data centers and other energy-intensive industries. It strengthens military readiness, addresses growing domestic energy demands, and creates opportunities for private investment, defense industrial growth, and American technological leadership.
The selection builds on the Navy nuclear energy pilot program championed by Senator Banks in the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act, positioning Crane to advance privately financed energy projects that strengthen installation resilience, support critical defense missions, and attract significant new investment.
Sen. Jim Banks (R-Ind.) said, “Crane is at the tip of the spear for our national defense. This selection reinforces Crane’s strategic importance and its critical role in advancing Secretary Hegseth’s Fortress America initiative. Reliable, independent energy will strengthen our military readiness, support existing missions, and open the door to new capabilities, including President Trump’s vision for a Super Intelligence Arsenal. These investments will strengthen our national security while creating thousands of jobs and new opportunities for Hoosiers across Southern Indiana.”
Background:
The initiative supports President Trump’s executive orders on American energy independence, advanced nuclear technology, and critical infrastructure development, as well as Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s Fortress America initiative.
The announcement adds to a series of developments at Crane, including the planned nuclear microreactor project, the proposed assignment of a one-star admiral, and continued growth in the surrounding defense and technology communities. Combined with ongoing investments in hypersonics, microelectronics, advanced radar, munitions, and defense manufacturing, these initiatives could generate more than 5,000 jobs and represent a potential economic impact exceeding $35 billion.
