Aberdeen << AB uhr `deen,` >> Proving Ground, Maryland, is a United States Army center for testing ordnance (weapons and ammunition). The Army also tests other military equipment and vehicles and trains soldiers there. The post serves as the headquarters of the Army Research, Development, and Engineering Command. The post also houses the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center. The post covers about 73,000 acres (29,000 hectares) and extends about 18 miles (29 kilometers) along the upper part of Chesapeake Bay near Aberdeen. It was established in 1917. It is recognized as one of the leading military testing and research facilities in the world.
In 2005, federal officials approved a plan that will reorganize Aberdeen Proving Ground. As part of the plan, the Army Ordnance Center and School moved from Aberdeen to Fort Lee, Virginia, in 2009. The plan also called for a number of other centers for military activities to move to Aberdeen from elsewhere.
