Fong Launches Bipartisan Congressional Military Range and Test Facility Caucus

Image October 27, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) announced the formation of the Congressional Military Range and Test Facility Caucus. Rep. Fong is joined in this effort by co-chairs Reps. Ken Calvert (CA-41), George Whitesides (CA-27), and Rep. Gabe Vasquez (NM-2). Reps. Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Julia Brownley (CA-26), and Mike Haridopolos (FL-8) are also joining the caucus. The purpose of the caucus is to educate Members of Congress, congressional staff, and the public about the importance of our nation's military ranges and test facilities, which play a critical role in advancing research and development and test missions for our military. Technology development plays an important role in ensuring our warfighters have the resources needed for success, and our military ranges and test facilities are foundational to this effort. "From NAWS China Lake and Edwards Air Force Base to the Mojave Air and Space Port, our community is the heart of America's military research, test, and development enterprise,” said Congressman Vince Fong. “America's military ranges and test facilities are where our nation's warfighters get their edge, and I am proud to represent some of the most critical in the world. This caucus will ensure that Members of Congress understand what is at stake, fight for the resources these facilities need, and protect the missions that keep America ahead of our adversaries. I am grateful to be joined by colleagues on both sides of the aisle who share that commitment." "The Antelope Valley is home to world-class facilities where we develop, test, and build aircraft to keep our country competitive,” said Congressman George Whitesides. “I'm proud to join Rep. Fong in launching this bipartisan caucus to make sure every member of Congress understands how critical institutions like Plant 42, NASA Armstrong, and Edwards AFB are to the Department of Defense's research, development, and test mission. Keeping America's edge means investing in the ranges, the infrastructure, and the skilled workforce that make that testing possible." “California’s 23rd District is home to five military installations, including some of our nation’s premier military training, testing, and development facilities,” said Rep. Jay Obernolte . “These bases play a critical role in advancing the technologies and capabilities that support our national defense. The Congressional Military Range and Test Facility Caucus will help ensure Congress understands the importance of these facilities and the role they play in keeping the United States at the forefront of military readiness.” “As the proud representative of Naval Base Ventura County, I understand firsthand the strategic importance of our military ranges and test facilities to our national security and supporting our nation’s defense readiness,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley . “To further strengthen these critical national security assets, I have consistently championed legislation to support our Major Range and Test Facility Bases and ensure they are equipped to meet our evolving defense needs. As a member of the Congressional Military Range and Test Facility Caucus, I will continue working to ensure our Armed Forces have access to the resources, cutting-edge technology, and state-of-the-art facilities necessary to carry out their missions.” “As the proud father of a U.S. Air Force Airman serving in explosive ordnance disposal, I understand firsthand how critical military ranges and test facilities are to preparing our warfighters for success,” said Congressman Haridopolos. “I’m proud to join this bipartisan caucus to strengthen military readiness, advance defense innovation, and ensure our servicemembers have the tools and training they need to keep America safe.” ### Issues : Congress