SANTA FE – California-based Castelion Corp. will establish its 1,000-acre solid-rocket-motor manufacturing complex, known as Project Ranger, in Sandoval County, state officials announced Monday. The New Mexico Economic Development Department said the facility will produce solid rocket motors, conduct static tests and assemble finished rounds as part of the company’s growing national-security portfolio.
The story was first reported by Source NM, an independent, nonprofit news organization that covers government, public policy and public officials across the state.
Castelion co-founder and Chief Financial Officer Andrew Kreitz said the company conducted a “competitive nationwide search” before choosing New Mexico “for its technical talent, regional infrastructure, and history of scientific achievement,” calling Project Ranger “a critical step in restoring America’s capacity to produce the advanced systems our country needs.”
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said the project reinforces New Mexico’s long role in national defense and innovation, while Economic Development Secretary Rob Black compared the investment’s significance to the Manhattan Project, saying it will “propel our innovation economy forward” and expand high-tech career opportunities.
State officials estimate the project will create more than 300 high-paying jobs and generate more than $650 million in economic activity over the next decade. Castelion plans to invest more than $100 million in its first four years, with additional phases to follow.
U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich praised the selection, citing his work to support the state’s military bases, research laboratories and private defense partners. Rio Rancho Mayor Greg Hull, a Republican candidate for governor, said the investment aligns with the region’s advanced-manufacturing history and New Mexico’s “expertise in national defense.”
Project Ranger is expected to break ground early next year.