U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) has led a letter of support for Indiana’s application to become one of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Test Sites. The letter, signed by all members of the Indiana congressional delegation, backs Hoosier stakeholders’ bid for the designation.
“Indiana is uniquely situated to best assist the FAA in integrating UAS into the national airspace system as well as advance the United States’ capacities for manufacturing and deploying drone technologies. Between the geographical location in the heart of the Midwest, the already numerous testing assets for a variety of missions, and state and federal representatives who are committed to supporting advancement of these critical technologies, our state is poised to provide the best outcomes for American leadership in drone manufacturing and deployment,” wrote the Indiana congressional delegation in its support letter.
The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 allows for two new test sites under its existing UAS Test Site program. If Indiana is chosen, it would have an opportunity to play a significant role in advancing U.S. drone technology. The site could enable collaboration among universities, government agencies, and manufacturers within Indiana on new drone developments. The initiative also aligns with an executive order on drones signed by Governor Mike Braun in October, which Senator Young contributed to.
The support letter was co-signed by Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Representatives Frank Mrvan (D-IN-01), Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02), Marlin Stutzman (R-IN-03), Jim Baird (R-IN-04), Victoria Spartz (R-IN-05), Jefferson Shreve (R-IN-06), Andre Carson (D-IN-07), Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), and Erin Houchin (R-IN-09).
Senator Young serves on the Senate Commerce Committee where he addresses federal issues related to drones.
