Indiana has a deep-rooted military history dating back to the War of 1812 and has contributed to every major U.S. conflict since. Today, the state is home to three key military installations, each serving a distinct mission within the Army National Guard, Air National Guard, and Coast Guard. Whether you are PCSing to Indiana, transitioning to civilian life, or seeking career opportunities, understanding these bases and their roles is essential.
Military Installations in Indiana
Indiana hosts three primary military installations:
- Camp Atterbury-Muscatatuck – A key training and readiness center for the Army National Guard.
- Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base – Home to the 122nd Fighter Wing, supporting air defense and combat operations.
- USCG Station Michigan City – A Coast Guard station ensuring maritime safety and security on the Great Lakes.
Camp Atterbury-Muscatatuck
Camp Atterbury-Muscatatuck, located in southern Indiana, is a combined training facility with a long history of supporting combat readiness and homeland security training.
Key Missions:
- Army and Joint Force Training – Provides live-fire ranges, maneuver space, and simulation environments for military and law enforcement units.
- Cyber and Electronic Warfare Training – Muscatatuck specializes in cybersecurity exercises and urban warfare training.
- Civil Support and Disaster Response – Trains units for domestic emergency response, natural disasters, and humanitarian missions.
Originally established in 1942, Camp Atterbury played a critical role in World War II, serving as a training site for infantry, armor, and artillery units. It also functioned as a prisoner-of-war camp for captured Italian and German soldiers. After the war, the base’s activity slowed until it was transferred to the Indiana National Guard in 1969. Today, it remains one of the most advanced National Guard training centers in the country.
For more information, visit the Camp Atterbury-Muscatatuck website.
Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base
Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base, located adjacent to Fort Wayne International Airport, has been a cornerstone of Indiana’s air defense and combat operations for decades.
Key Missions:
- 122nd Fighter Wing (Black Snakes) – Operates A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft, specializing in close air support and combat air patrol missions.
- Homeland Defense – Plays a critical role in national security, conducting air sovereignty and interception missions.
- Disaster Response – Supports state and federal emergency relief efforts during natural disasters and crises.
Originally established as Baer Field in 1941, the base was an important staging and training site for pilots during World War II. After its closure in 1945, the Indiana Air National Guard took control of the installation in 1954, transforming it into a permanent fighter base. Today, the 122nd Fighter Wing continues to train and deploy in support of combat operations worldwide.
For more information, visit the Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base website.
USCG Station Michigan City
USCG Station Michigan City is a vital maritime safety and security hub located on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. It plays a crucial role in protecting one of the busiest waterways in the Great Lakes region.
