NSA Crane
NSA Crane PCS Guide
Military Base History
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NSA Crane began in 1941 as the Naval Ammunition Depot, Crane, to support the U.S. Navy’s ordnance needs during World War II. Its remote location in southern Indiana offered safety and access to key rail lines. The base quickly became a major site for munitions production, storage, and testing, playing a critical role in supplying the fleet.
During the Cold War, the installation expanded its mission to include research, development, and logistics for advanced weapons systems. The base diversified into electronic warfare, sensors, and special munitions. Several specialized units and technical divisions established a long-term presence, making Crane a hub for innovation in naval technology.
In 1974, the base was officially renamed from Naval Ammunition Depot, Crane, to Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, to reflect its broader technical focus. Later, it became part of the larger Naval Support Activity (NSA) Crane, which now hosts multiple tenant commands. The installation has not undergone any other significant name changes.
Today, NSA Crane is a premier center for electronic warfare, strategic systems, and expeditionary warfare support. It remains one of the largest naval installations by area in the U.S. and is a major employer in Indiana, providing advanced support to the Navy, Marine Corps, and other military branches.
Major Units & Training Programs
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti meets with Navy civilians, in Crane, Indiana, Feb. 10, 2025. Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane has a STEM partnership with over 40 area schools, providing education opportunities to over 10,000 students annually, and CNO had the opportunity...
Major Units
Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane)
NSWC Crane provides advanced technical solutions and engineering support for sensors, electronics, electronic warfare, and special warfare weapons systems to the Navy and other branches. It is a leading center for research, development, testing, and support of military technology.
Naval Support Activity Crane (NSA Crane) Command
NSA Crane Command provides installation management, security, and operational support for all tenant activities, ensuring mission readiness and quality of life for personnel stationed at the base.
Training Schools
Expeditionary Electronic Warfare Training (select courses)
Overview
Provides specialized electronic warfare training for Navy and joint service personnel, focusing on counter-IED, signals intelligence, and electromagnetic spectrum operations.
Course Length
Varies (typically 1-2 weeks)
Who Attends
Navy and joint service personnel in electronic warfare or related specialties
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to NSA Crane! Arriving at a new installation can be a busy time, but being well-prepared will help ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. Review these steps before your arrival to streamline your check-in and access to the base. For more details, visit the official NSA Crane website.
NSA Crane's main entrance is the Crane Gate, located on the eastern perimeter of the installation. The Crane Gate operates 24/7, providing around-the-clock access for authorized personnel. All adults must present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or approved federal ID at entry. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs will require secondary documentation. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security posture. To bring visitors or family members, stop at the Visitor Control Center to obtain a temporary pass. Sponsors must be present or pre-authorize guests in advance.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates (for dependents)
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (lease or assignment letter)
NSA Crane offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Contact your gaining unit or the NSA Crane Command Sponsor Coordinator to request a sponsor. Many units also provide an online sponsor request form via the official NSA Crane website.
Report to the Welcome Center, Building 2, near the main entrance, for in-processing. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 0730 to 1630. You will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Most in-processing steps are completed within 2–3 business days, depending on your arrival time and required briefings.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Crane Gate. Open Monday through Friday, 0600 to 1800, the VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and processes sponsorship paperwork for family and visitors.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Professional movers unloading empty moving boxes out of their truck to start moving more Soldiers out of the Smoke Bomb Hill barracks, Sept. 14, 2022 at Smoke Bomb Hill, Fort Bragg, N.C. Soldiers were given the option to move their own things by a dity move or having movers pack their things up and move it for them.
Moving to NSA Crane starts with receiving your official orders. As soon as you have orders, contact the base Transportation Office to discuss your options and begin planning your move. Most service members use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track their household goods (HHG) shipment or Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY).
You can choose between a government-coordinated HHG move or a PPM, where you move your belongings and possibly receive reimbursement. You may be eligible for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to cover up to 10 days of lodging and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with relocation costs. Review your entitlements and keep receipts for all expenses. NSA Crane is in a rural area, so planning ahead for temporary lodging and local transportation is key.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Book temporary lodging early—options near NSA Crane are limited.
- Keep all important documents and orders with you, not in HHG.
- Check your weight allowance before packing to avoid extra charges.
- Take photos of your belongings for insurance purposes.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and destination address.
- Plan for rural transportation—personal vehicle is highly recommended.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your move online through the Defense Personal Property System.
Find up-to-date rates for TLE, DLA, and other travel entitlements.
Get checklists, guides, and support for every step of your PCS.
Find local contacts and base-specific information for NSA Crane.
Schools & Childcare
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NSA Crane does not have on-base schools, so military families rely on nearby public school districts for K-12 education. The area offers a mix of rural and small-town schools, each with unique strengths and programs. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your go-to resource for navigating enrollment, understanding district boundaries, and connecting with special education or gifted services. Families can contact the SLO through the NSA Crane Fleet and Family Support Center for personalized support and local school insights.
Childcare Options
Child Development Homes (CDH) Program - NSA Crane
The CDH program offers in-home, licensed childcare by certified providers on or near base. Families can find full-day, part-day, and hourly care, with providers meeting Navy standards for safety and quality.
Crane Youth Center
The Youth Center provides after-school care, homework help, and recreational activities for school-age children and teens. The program is affiliated with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and offers summer camps.
Bedford Area YMCA
The Bedford Area YMCA, located in Bedford, offers full-day childcare, preschool, and after-school programs. The center is state-licensed and participates in Paths to QUALITY, Indiana’s child care rating system.
Local Schools
North Lawrence Community Schools
North Lawrence Community Schools is the largest district near NSA Crane, serving Bedford and surrounding areas. It is known for strong community involvement, solid academics, and a range of extracurriculars. State ratings are average to above average, and the district offers Advanced Placement and career tech programs.
Loogootee Community Schools
Loogootee Community Schools is a smaller district with a reputation for close-knit school communities and high graduation rates. GreatSchools.org rates its elementary and high schools above average, and the district offers robust athletics and arts programs.
Mitchell Community Schools
Mitchell Community Schools serves families living south of Crane and offers a welcoming environment with dedicated teachers. The district focuses on STEM and college readiness, and recent state report cards show steady academic growth.