Chamber Advocates for 181st Intelligence Wing Funding
Photo Courtesy of the 181st Intelligence Wing
Terre Haute, Ind. - On Thursday, the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce and its West Central Defense Network initiative offered testimony at the Indiana Statehouse in support of funding that could be used to support Indiana’s military bases, including the 181st Intelligence Wing in Terre Haute.
The Indiana Military Base Infrastructure Grant Program is outlined in an accompanying bill and would provide for an annual $25 million fund, to be administered by the Indiana Defense Task Force.
Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Kristin Craig stated today, “The allocation of these funds are an investment in Indiana’s future, not an expense, with great potential for high returns from new economic opportunities created as a result. The 181st Intelligence Wing plays a vital role in national security, employing around 500 personnel with Top Secret clearances and working in cutting-edge fields like cybersecurity, intelligence analysis and geospatial technologies.”
According to additional testimony provided during Thursday’s hearing, military-focused economic development groups warned that not investing in such facilities could put Indiana at risk of “Base Realignment and Closure,” a process where the Department of Defense may close select military installations.
“This base is more than just a military installation—it’s a critical economic driver that supports hundreds of high-tech, high-paying jobs and strengthens our local economy. These are exactly the kinds of jobs we need more of in Indiana—high-skill, high-wage positions that keep our best and brightest in the state,” Craig went on to explain. “For us to continue to attract and retain talent, which allows us to attract new defense missions, private investment and new federal contracts that create more of these opportunities, we must ensure the 181st Intelligence Wing has modern, reliable infrastructure, capable of meeting the needs of current military strategies.
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About the West Central Defense Network:
The WCDN is an initiative dedicated to creating and advancing opportunities in defense development for West Central Indiana by addressing the needs of the military through creative problem-solving and industry development. It includes representatives from Vigo County, the City of Terre Haute, the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, the Terre Haute Regional Airport and several other leaders in West Central Indiana committed to advancing the role that defense plays in our local and state economy. More information can be found at www.wcidefense.com.
About the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce:
Established in 1913, the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce has been and always will be, committed to creating a community that is a great place to live, work and do business. Our vision is to build a vibrant, growing and sustainable business economy that provides prosperity and quality life throughout our region.
