Gov. Braun spotlights Indiana as National Defense Innovation Hub, driving high-wage jobs and economic growth

Governor Mike Braun delivered the opening keynote address Wednesday at the Midwest Defense Innovation Summit (MDIS), hosted by the Applied Research Institute (ARI) at the Grand Hall Ballroom of the Crowne Plaza Union Station. Speaking to more than 300 leaders from industry, government, and academia, the Governor highlighted Indiana’s role as an emerging center for defense innovation, which is creating thousands of high-wage jobs.

“Indiana is well positioned to be the destination for defense innovation,” said Governor Mike Braun. “We have the ability and the talent to move quickly from concept to capability, creating high-wage jobs and strengthening our economy while supporting the Department of War.”

Indiana’s leadership rests on its unmatched assets and recent momentum. Naval Support Activity Crane, the third-largest Navy base in the world, serves as the state’s anchor for nuclear modernization, hypersonics, and munitions production. The state’s advanced manufacturing base, microelectronics expertise, and logistics strength make it a natural partner for the Department of War. 

Recent breakthroughs, including Kratos’ hypersonics programs and the Prometheus Munitions Campus, are already translating into new facilities, expanded production lines, and direct job creation across the state. Governor Braun’s Executive Order to establish Indiana as a key partner in national drone dominance, along with the development of a dedicated drone corridor, is accelerating private-sector investment in next-generation systems. 

Andrew Kossack, CEO of the Applied Research Institute, praised the Governor’s leadership and Indiana’s trajectory.

“Governor Braun’s vision captures the momentum ARI is driving on a national scale," said Andrew Kossack, CEO of ARI. "By leveraging Indiana’s manufacturing strength and unmatched technical talent, we are ensuring our warfighters get the critical solutions they need at the pace of relevance."