U.S. Army Opens Test Ranges to Private Companies for Faster Weapon Development

The U.S. Army announced that it will allow private firms to test missiles, drones and other weapons at its ranges within 30 days of a request submitted through a new online marketplace. The change eliminates the previous 12‑to‑18‑month approval process and does not require an existing federal contract.

Four domestic sites – Dugway Proving Ground (UT), West Cibola Range at Yuma Proving Ground (AZ), Camp Shelby (MS) and Camp Grayling (MI) – are now open, and a partnership with U.S. Africa Command adds a training area in Morocco. Covenant Industries was the first company to use the pathway, testing its Anthem cruise missile at the Moroccan range. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll said the move is intended to accelerate innovation and replenish depleted munitions stocks after recent conflicts.