Huntsville defense contractor announces major expansion at London airshow, creating 150 jobs

Huntsville is set to bolster its reputation as a premier technology hub with a major expansion from Redwire Corp. The aerospace and defense manufacturer announced the development at the Farnborough International Airshow, a prestigious biennial expo for the aviation and defense sectors.

Driving Growth and Innovation

This 164,000-square-foot expansion project is slated to bring approximately 150 new high-skilled jobs to the Rocket City, focusing on manufacturing, integration, and technical operations. By enhancing U.S.-based production, the company aims to solidify domestic supply chains and maintain a leading edge in aerospace and defense technology.

The expanded facility will ramp up the production of the combat-proven Stalker UAS, Octopus gimbal payloads, and advanced energy solutions, alongside space capabilities designed to support commerce, exploration, and national security.

A Boost for Alabama's Tech Ecosystem

Governor Kay Ivey praised the announcement as a testament to the state's skilled workforce. "Redwire’s expansion in Huntsville is a powerful endorsement of our state’s skilled workforce and collaborative business environment, and it further solidifies Alabama’s leadership in aerospace and defense," Ivey said in a written statement.

Peter Cannito, chairman and CEO of Redwire, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Huntsville’s strategic importance. "Huntsville is one of the fastest-growing technology hubs in the United States, uniquely positioned at the intersection of America’s space and defense industries," Cannito said.

The expansion is backed by approximately $8.5 million in state and local economic development incentives. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting, "Redwire’s continued investment is another strong vote of confidence in Huntsville’s world-class aerospace and defense ecosystem."

Alabama Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair added that the project showcases the state's ability to provide the infrastructure and support necessary for companies to thrive and scale their successes.

Looking Ahead

Construction of the expanded campus is projected to reach completion by late 2027. Redwire, which currently employs roughly 1,400 people across its North American and European operations, continues to see significant momentum across both its Space and Defense Tech divisions. You can find the original report on this development at AL.com.