Ohio congressional delegation makes case for in-state East Coast missile defense site

Members of Ohio’s congressional delegation called on the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) on Wednesday to consider locating an East Coast missile defense system at the Camp Ravenna Joint Military Training Center.

U.S. Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH) and U.S. Reps. Steve Stivers (R-OH), Pat Tiberi (R-OH), David Joyce (R-OH) and Jim Renacci (R-OH) were among 16 legislators who signed a letter to MDA Director James Syring requesting consideration.

The East Coast Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) ballistic missile defense system will be used to intercept ballistic missiles headed for America.

“Ohioans stand ready to support the defense of our nation and look forward to this potential opportunity to strengthen the regional economy,” the letter states.

Located in Northeast Ohio, Camp Ravenna is close to the transportation networks of Akron and Youngstown, which would assist in the flow of military and construction traffic during the project.

“It is estimated that the $3.6 billion project could help support 2,300 jobs in the region during construction and directly employ up to 850 people full-time once the system is operational,” the letter states. “This represents a significant investment in a region of our state that is continuing to recover economically.”

The lawmakers also noted that Camp Ravenna does not have any significant environmental concerns, historic property or airspace constrictions that would prevent construction or GMD operations.