Redwire Corporation, a global leader in space and defense technology solutions, announced it has opened a new rapid capabilities facility in Albuquerque, New Mexico to advance the development of space-based defense systems. This new 15,000 square-foot facility is Redwire’s latest investment in the Albuquerque region, with the company maintaining a long-standing footprint in the area as a key partner for Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). 

Redwire’s new facility, better known as Firestone Rapid Capabilities Facility (FRCF), will support a wide range of capabilities for space, missile defense, and other emerging warfighting domains:

• strategic systems assembly, integration, and test
• structural, mechanical, and thermal spacecraft subsystems
• launch and ground support equipment for proliferated space
• advanced analysis and testing methods national security applications

Redwire’s FRCF site will also support work under its $45 million, five-year cost-plus-fixed-fee contract with Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Space Vehicles Directorate to design, develop, and test of prototype software and hardware for mission critical technologies.

“The modernization of America’s space-based defense systems requires the rapid development of new capabilities and advanced systems to ensure we keep our nation secure and Redwire’s Firestone Rapid Capabilities Facility will build on our legacy of converting cutting-edge concepts into key advantages for the warfighter,” said Peter Cannito, Chairman and CEO of Redwire. “Redwire is proud to be a pillar within New Mexico’s space ecosystem, and our recent investment reflects how important this region is to our nation’s defense architecture. We look forward to leveraging the talent and key partnerships within the Albuquerque region to support this important work.”

“New Mexico celebrates Redwire’s expansion in Albuquerque, because when companies grow here, families thrive here,” said Rob Black, Cabinet Secretary, New Mexico Economic Development Department. “Aerospace and defense are vital to both our state’s economy and our nation’s security, and through tools like the Job Training Incentive Program we’re helping create high-wage jobs that strengthen our communities and safeguard our future.”

As a key proponent of New Mexico’s space industrial base, Redwire’s FRCF can provide government customers including AFRL, U.S. Space Force’s Space Rapid Capabilities Office, Sandia National Laboratories, Los Alamos National Laboratories and commercial aerospace and defense partners with additional capabilities to support their missions.

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