The U.S. Air Force has announced a $13 million investment to construct a small arms qualification range at the 181st Intelligence Wing of the Air National Guard Base in Terre Haute.

Senator Jim Banks welcomed the announcement, calling it a fulfillment of a long-standing need for the base.

“I’m pleased that the Air Force is following through on its commitment to build the small arms range in Terre Haute,” said Banks in a statement. “This project will ensure commanders can quickly get their troops weapons-qualified before being deployed overseas.”

As a member of the House, Banks had advocated for the project and also supported transitioning the 122nd Fighter Wing from A-10 aircraft to F-16s.

Currently, the Terre Haute base lacks a certified small arms training facility, forcing nearly 900 service members stationed there to travel to other locations for their annual weapons qualifications.

Construction of the new range is expected to be completed by April 20, 2027.