WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Roger Marshall on Monday praised a major new defense initiative that places Kansas at the forefront of America’s evolving air and base defense strategy. The U.S. Air Force’s Air Combat Command (ACC) has announced that the Kansas Air National Guard’s 184th Wing, headquartered at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, will join the newly established Point Defense Task Force and host a Point Defense Battle Lab.
Additionally, the Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range near Salina will serve as a designated test site for counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS) experimentation—an increasingly critical capability as the U.S. military works to counter small drone threats to installations and personnel.
The new assignments come in response to ACC’s directive to accelerate the development of base defense technologies, particularly those countering small UAS incursions. The 184th Wing was chosen for its renowned expertise in air battle management, cyber operations, and AI-enabled Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR).
Senator Marshall and Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas-4) worked closely with the Department of War, the Department of the Air Force, and Air Combat Command to secure the project for Kansas.
“From defending our borders to protecting our skies, the Kansas National Guard continues to lead,” said Senator Marshall. “I’ve directly engaged with the Department of War to champion our Guard’s unmatched capabilities. The Point Defense Battle Lab represents a major opportunity to bring jobs, advanced technology, and strategic significance to our state. I’m proud to back the Guard’s vision and will keep fighting for strong federal investment to make it a reality.”
Col. Joe Deeds, Commander of the 184th Wing, called the decision a “decisive moment” for both Kansas and national defense.
“The 184th Wing is uniquely positioned to lead this mission,” said Deeds. “Our Air Battle Managers, cyber warriors, ISR operators, and AI specialists are ready to transform how America defends its installations and airspace. We’re not just experimenting with technology—we’re shaping the future of warfare.”
The Point Defense Battle Lab is expected to serve as a national innovation hub for testing and developing cutting-edge defensive technologies, enhancing the state’s reputation as a leader in advanced defense operations.
Together, McConnell Air Force Base and Smoky Hill Range will anchor Kansas’s role in shaping the future of U.S. air defense strategy—bringing with it new missions, workforce opportunities, and long-term federal partnerships.