Solstice Advanced Materials to Enhance Ballistic Fiber Production in Virginia with $220 Million Investment

Solstice Advanced Materials Invests in Virginia for Ballistic Fiber Manufacturing

MORRIS PLAINS, N.J. – In a strategic move to strengthen domestic production of defense-critical materials, Solstice Advanced Materials (NASDAQ: SOLS), a leader in high-performance specialty materials, has announced a significant investment of more than $220 million to expand its ballistic fiber manufacturing operations in Colonial Heights, Chesterfield County, Virginia. The initiative, which is set to enhance the facility's capabilities, aims to create 100 new full-time jobs by 2029.

For over two decades, the Colonial Heights facility has been pivotal in the U.S. defense supply chain, producing Spectra® fiber and composite materials that are essential for helmets, vests, vehicle armor, and naval applications. This latest investment will facilitate the upgrade of the facility with advanced fiber spinning, composite coating, and analytical capabilities, making it an innovative hub for ballistic material production in North America.

With construction and equipment installation expected to take place from 2025 to 2029, operational benefits are anticipated to ramp up as the completion date approaches on September 30, 2030. Commenting on the investment, David Sewell, President and CEO of Solstice Advanced Materials, emphasized the company's commitment to maintaining technological leadership in protective materials. "This investment not only enhances our production capabilities but also strengthens U.S. manufacturing and resilience in the supply chain for materials critical to defense," he stated.

The expansion will notably increase the capacity for Spectra® and Spectra Shield® technologies, which feature ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers that boast remarkable strength—up to 15 times stronger than steel—while being 65% lighter than traditional aramid fabrics. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art research and development tools that comprise fiber spinning, ballistic testing, and composite fabrication, allowing Solstice to innovate quicker and offer next-generation lightweight armor systems and advanced protective solutions for soldiers.

Additionally, this project supports the U.S. military's aim to maintain and augment domestic production capabilities for advanced ballistic materials amid increasing global competition. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) has backed this project in coordination with Chesterfield County through the Virginia Investment Performance (VIP) Grant, which is designed to assist in the recruitment and training of employees associated with the creation of new jobs.

Governor Glenn Youngkin has acknowledged Solstice's expansion as a testament to Virginia's prowess in advanced manufacturing. "Their ballistic fibers provide essential protection for those who protect us. This growth highlights the exceptional talent present in the Commonwealth," he noted.

Moreover, the state has approved a $1.5 million grant from the Commonwealth's Opportunity Fund and a $2 million performance-based Virginia Investment Performance (VIP) Grant to facilitate Chesterfield County’s efforts in this expansion project.

Lawrence Kast, Senior Vice President of Global Government Relations at Solstice, expressed gratitude for the collaborative support from state and local leaders. He reinforced the company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing America’s defense industrial base alongside continuing investment in Virginia.

About Solstice Advanced Materials
Solstice Advanced Materials is a prominent global specialty materials company recognized for its innovative solutions. The firm provides high-performance solutions across various critical industries including refrigerants, semiconductor manufacturing, nuclear power, healthcare packaging, and, notably, protective fibers. Solstice is home to several recognized brands such as Spectra®, Genetron®, and Aclar®, with a strong global presence and a vast portfolio of patents.

To learn more about Solstice Advanced Materials, visit www.Solstice.com.

This expansion represents a promising development in the landscape of U.S. advanced manufacturing, indicating a future where protective measures and innovative manufacturing technologies coexist to safeguard national interests.