2026-07131Notice

Alaska's Icy Tundra to Echo with Bigger Boom: Artillery Expansion Approved

Published Date: 4/14/2026

Notice

Summary

The Air Force and Army have decided to start year-round live mortar and artillery training at Richardson Training Area in Alaska, including using bigger 155-mm guns and expanding the impact zone. This change affects military training activities at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and aims to improve readiness while considering environmental impacts. The decision was finalized in early 2026 and will guide training plans moving forward.

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.

All‑Season Live‑Fire Training Begins

The Air Force and Army decided to implement year‑round (all‑season) live mortar and artillery training at Richardson Training Area, Joint Base Elmendorf‑Richardson. The Record of Decision was signed March 27, 2026 (Air Force) and March 17, 2026 (Army) and follows the Final Environmental Impact Statement released January 30, 2026.

Introduction of 155‑mm Artillery

The Departments decided to include use of 155‑mm artillery as part of the approved training at Richardson Training Area. This change is part of Alternative 1 in the Final Environmental Impact Statement and is documented in the Record of Decision signed in March 2026.

Eagle River Flats Impact Area Expanded

The Record of Decision approves expansion of the Eagle River Flats Impact Area as analyzed in the Final Environmental Impact Statement. The Final EIS was made available January 30, 2026 and the ROD was signed in March 2026.

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Key Dates

Effective Date
Published Date
3/27/2026
4/14/2026

Department and Agencies

Department
Independent Agency
Agency
Defense Department
Air Force Department
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