In a move aimed at streamlining the process of acquiring weapons for the battlefield, the U.S. Army has announced that it will allow private companies developing missiles and drones access to its test ranges. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll emphasized the importance of cutting through red tape to speed up the procurement process, pledging to grant companies access to test ranges within 30 days of their request through an online marketplace.

The initiative comes at a time when global warfare is evolving rapidly, with examples like Iran’s use of Shahed drones and Ukraine’s advancements in drone technology. By opening up its ranges and incentivizing smaller companies to innovate and invest in creating cheaper and more effective weapons, the Army aims to improve the lethality and safety of its soldiers while also increasing the nation’s overall defense capabilities. This new program also allows companies to test new rockets, drones, and anti-drone weapons, even without a military contract, in an effort to boost the U.S. military’s dwindling stockpiles of advanced interceptors.