Castelion Selects New Mexico for Major Rocket Engine Production Facility
Defense technology firm Castelion announced it will establish a new solid-fuel rocket engine manufacturing campus, dubbed “Project Ranger,” in Sandoval County, New Mexico. The 1,000-acre industrial site is poised to significantly expand the company’s production capacity for advanced defense systems.
The multi-phase project is expected to generate more than 300 jobs and stimulate over $650 million in economic activity over the next ten years. Castelion has committed to an initial investment exceeding $100 million in the first four years of development, with plans for potential future expansions on the large site.
According to the company, the New Mexico facility will accelerate the production of advanced long-range systems and bolster its U.S. manufacturing footprint. Castelion, headquartered in Torrance, California, specializes in developing hypersonic systems and strengthening national defense industrial capabilities.
After a comprehensive nationwide site selection process, New Mexico was chosen for its skilled workforce, robust regional infrastructure, and strong scientific legacy. The decision was facilitated through collaboration with local authorities and economic development organizations, including Sandoval County, the City of Rio Rancho, the Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance (AREA), and the Sandoval Economic Alliance (SEA).
State and federal officials praised the announcement, highlighting that the new plant will fortify the regional economy and solidify New Mexico’s role in the advanced defense manufacturing sector. They also noted the project’s potential to create opportunities for local businesses and attract additional supply-chain and industry-related investments to the area.
