CRANE, Ind. – The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane) marked a significant milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for its new Missile Technology Evaluation Facility (MTEF) on Thursday, March 21. The facility will focus on hypersonics research, development, testing, and evaluation, enhancing NSWC Crane’s capability to ensure the reliable performance of strategic hypersonics systems. The MTEF is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. The new facility aligns with the Department of Defense’s (DOD) goals of revitalizing physical infrastructure to support research and development. Hypersonic weapons, which fly at a minimum Mach 5, offer advantages in maneuverability and the ability to change course during flight compared to ballistic missiles. NSWC Crane’s MTEF adds to the growing suite of DOD investments and capabilities supporting hypersonics, including the development of the Under Water Launch Test facility and modeling and simulation labs.
