LANSING, Mich. –
A new Intelligence and Electronic Warfare & Sensors (IEWS) Battalion, which brings with it nearly 200 high-skill personnel positions, will join the ranks of the Michigan National Guard (MING) as part of the U.S. Army’s recently announced future investment plans.
An IEWS Battalion is a critical component of our national defense strategy and is designed to conduct multi-domain intelligence analysis, collection, and deep-targeting support capabilities in Large Scale Combat Operations (LSCO) environments against peer-adversaries. Michigan is well-postured to receive this formation and has demonstrated the ability to recruit and sustain Soldiers for this formation through the state’s talent-base, ties with industry, proximity to academia, and willingness to innovate.
“Michigan’s brave men and women who have served and continue to serve in our armed forces have always demonstrated their unique capability to adapt to new mission sets and evolve as conditions change,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Our ability to attract this new battalion is a testament to their dedication and strong work ethic. It is exciting to see this high-tech battalion coming to Michigan which will support our efforts to attract and retain the type of talent necessary for its success.”
The IEWS Battalion, which will be stood up by 2026, will provide MING with additional partnership opportunities and enhance already existing resources. Specifically, having this battalion located in Michigan will help further develop the capabilities of the state’s National All-Domain Warfighting Center (NADWC). Continuing to invest in this complex is a key component of the state’s strategy to remain a critical asset to the overall readiness and training efforts of the U.S. Armed Forces.
“We are incredibly excited that the Michigan National Guard was selected to receive one of four Intelligence Electronic Warfare & Sensors (IEWS) Battalions as part of the U.S. Army’s Structure Memorandum for FYs 23-27,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veteran Affairs.
“This decision clearly demonstrates Michigan’s capabilities and our ongoing commitment to being on the forefront for new investments as we continue to support our national defense and adapt to the ever changing conditions that will be present in future war fights. With this IEWS Battalion we will also be well positioned to enhance our existing capabilities at the National All Domain Warfighting Center through new investments to build out our secure communications facilities and equip ourselves with the instrumentation and equipment necessary for these new missions.”
Michigan has been fortunate to have strong advocates from its federal congressional delegation who help advocate and push for the state to receive these types of critical investments. Through the work of Senator Gary Peters and Representatives Jack Bergman, Elissa Slotkin and Lisa McClain, the state is well represented on both the Senate and House Armed Services Committees. These committees are charged with oversight of the country’s defense related efforts through their work on the National Defense Authorization Act each year.
“Michigan is the proud home to a number of military installations that are critical components of our national defense. I’m pleased the National Guard has selected Michigan for a new Intelligence and Electronic Warfare Battalion,” said Senator Peters, a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. “This decision is a testament to Michigan’s vital defense footprint and advances our growing ability to be on the forefront of cutting-edge military capabilities. I’ve highlighted Michigan’s military installations and strategic positioning to the Department of Defense, and I’m glad this basing decision reflects our state’s importance to our long-term national defense. I’ll continue advocating for Michigan as defense leaders make determinations about future military operations.”
About Michigan National Guard
The Michigan National Guard provides trained, combat-capable forces in support of the national security strategy worldwide and defense support of civil authorities in response to federal emergencies within the United States and state emergencies within Michigan. For more information, please visit: www.minationalguard.dodlive.mil. or call 517-481-7731
About Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
The Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) synchronizes strategic, legislative and fiscal initiatives to build and sustain military readiness, care and advocacy for veterans and cultivate purposeful partnerships. Branch operations include Michigan Veteran Homes, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, State Operations, Army National Guard and Air National Guard which stand in support of our mission to serve every member. For more information, please visit: www.michigan.gov/dmva.