#United States #Rio Rancho #Hypersonic #Castelion #Project Ranger

Castelion Breaks Ground on Project Ranger

Castelion has officially unveiled plans for Project Ranger, a huge 1,000-acre hypersonic manufacturing campus that will be located in Sandoval County, New Mexico. The announcement was made on January 21, 2026, marking a significant leap forward in the realm of hypersonic manufacturing capabilities in the United States. This extensive facility is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for the region, including the creation of more than 300 high-paying jobs and a private investment exceeding $220 million.

This groundbreaking initiative is designed to support the high-cadence production of hypersonic strike systems, which are crucial for maintaining national security in an increasingly competitive global landscape. The projected economic impact over the next decade is estimated to exceed $650 million, reinforcing New Mexico's role as a leader in defense innovation.

Community and Economic Impact

The project's groundbreaking ceremony was attended by prominent figures such as New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, U.S. Army Portfolio Acquisition Executive Fires Lt. General Frank Lozano, and Director of NAVAIR's Rapid Capabilities Cell Paul McGinty. Governor Grisham highlighted the significance of this investment for economic development in New Mexico. “This is economic development in New Mexico—high-tech companies bringing high-paying jobs,” she stated.

The construction of Project Ranger is anticipated to boost the manufacturing sector in New Mexico, supporting solid rocket motor manufacturing, static testing, and the final assembly of hypersonic weapons. This strategic investment reinforces New Mexico’s position in cutting-edge defense technologies, which have historically contributed to national and global security. The first building of Project Ranger is scheduled for completion by this summer, with all twenty-one buildings fully operational by the end of 2026.

A Renaissance in American Manufacturing

Bryon Hargis, CEO and Co-Founder of Castelion, expressed his confidence in New Mexico's rich technical talent and history of scientific achievement. “Project Ranger represents a renaissance in American manufacturing, delivering the advanced systems our country needs,” he remarked. Castelion aims to partner with a community known for its significant contributions to defense innovation.

In support of the initiative, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich emphasized the profound implications for both economic growth and national security. He stated, “This is a great example of what New Mexico does best—developing cutting-edge technology and manufacturing it right here in our state.” Senator Heinrich also outlined his commitment to bolstering New Mexico's defense infrastructure, including military bases and research labs.

Rob Black, Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Economic Development Department, noted the broader workforce impact of Project Ranger. Today’s labor market is evolving, and Castelion’s facility opens up new career opportunities for the younger generation in New Mexico, particularly in high-tech sectors such as aerospace and defense.

Collaboration and Future Outlook

The successful establishment of Project Ranger was driven by collaboration between local entities, supported by efforts from Sandoval County, the City of Rio Rancho, the Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance (AREA), and state officials. Key players such as Sandoval County Board of Commissions Chair Jordan Juarez and Sandoval County Manager Wayne Johnson emphasized their commitment to facilitating the project and providing necessary support.

The larger vision is for New Mexico to be at the forefront of the hypersonic technology race, ensuring competitive superiority over nations such as China and Russia. As intermediate manufacturing phases commence, community leaders express a unified optimism about the potential technological advancements that will stem from Project Ranger.

In conclusion, Project Ranger is not just a mere manufacturing facility; it embodies New Mexico's determination to propel itself as a pioneering region in advanced defense technologies, blending innovative manufacturing with strategic workforce development. Castelion is setting high standards in hypersonic production and its partnership with Sandoval County is a testament to shared goals in enhancing national security and supporting economic growth in the region.