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SPARC Research Expands Facilities to Meet Growing Aerospace Demands

SPARC Research, based in Warrenton, Virginia, has made headlines recently with its rapid expansion and new contract acquisitions in the aerospace sector. Founded in 2018, this engineering services firm specializes in propulsion technologies, and its growth trajectory illustrates its burgeoning role in defense and aerospace engineering throughout the United States.

New Contracts Fuel Expansion

As part of its expansion strategy, SPARC has secured several substantial contracts which have necessitated an increase in both its facilities and its operational capabilities. Among these is an impressive IDIQ contract worth $28 million with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), under which SPARC was awarded additional task orders aimed at advancing solid rocket motor (SRM) technologies. Specifically, their objectives include the design and testing of advanced rocket motors, research into technologies for extended-range missile propulsion, and enhancements in combustion modeling for solid fuel ramjet systems.

In February 2025, SPARC also confirmed a contract with the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) to produce and deliver Quickstrike Extended Range (QS-ER) Build Load Adapters, marking another victory in its strategic pursuits. The Navy accepted initial batches of these units earlier this year, underlining SPARC’s efficiency and reliability in a highly competitive field.

Supporting National Defense Goals

Aligning with broader national defense priorities, the Department of Defense awarded SPARC a $5.1 million contract to bolster the domestic munitions industrial base. This funding comes under Title III of the Defense Production Act and aims to enhance supply chain resilience by ensuring a reliable and affordable supply of rocket motor components. This is crucial for improving high-performance propulsion systems, hence supporting the overall readiness of U.S. forces.

Matthew Cornwell, President of SPARC Research, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality aerospace engineering services to the DoD, stating, "Delivering agile aerospace engineering services and quality products is at the core of our business. Our recent growth is a testament to our team's hard work and dedication."

New Facilities to Accommodate Growth

In response to increased operational demands, SPARC Research is expanding its physical footprint. This includes enhancing its Warrenton headquarters by adding 10,000 square feet dedicated to manufacturing. Also noteworthy is the establishment of a new engineering office, dubbed SPARC West, in downtown Cumberland, Maryland. This new facility will facilitate collaborations with local universities to cultivate a skilled workforce, thereby attracting top talent in propulsion engineering and specialty manufacturing.

Tom Moore, SPARC’s Vice President and Site Manager of the new office, noted the importance of this expansion for SPARC’s future: "We’re scaling our operations to maintain our growing presence in the propulsion engineering market while ensuring we can quickly adapt to our clients' needs. The collaboration with regional educational institutions will play a vital role in fostering innovation and excellence in our work."

Looking Ahead

With an eye toward further growth, SPARC Research is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing aerospace technologies while supporting national defense initiatives. Their ongoing expansion reflects a robust strategy to meet the evolving challenges of the aerospace industry and ensure a strategic supply chain is in place for the future.

For further information about SPARC Research and their services, you can visit their official website at www.sparcresearch.com.