TANNER — A state-of-the art hangar facility, capable of servicing huge C-130 aircraft, will soon be rising from the red clay in Limestone County.
Aleut Real Estate and Huntsville-based Strata-G Solutions will jointly develop the facility at Pryor Field Regional Airport. A groundbreaking ceremony Thursday marked the beginning of a $32.7 million project and is the first Alabama-based development by ARE, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Aleut Corp.
According to company officials, Strata-G Solutions, an Aleut-owned, Huntsville-based defense engineering and manufacturing firm, will play a leading role in shaping the facility to meet critical mission requirements.
“This groundbreaking reflects Aleut’s focus on intentional growth built on strong partnerships,” said Aleut President & CEO Skoey Vergen. “As demand for aviation and defense infrastructure grows across Alabama, Aleut Real Estate and Strata-G Solutions are delivering capabilities that support regional economic progress and national defense readiness.
“This project is made possible through close collaboration with Limestone County and the state of Alabama.”
The facility will serve Department of Defense programs and commercial aviation clients, expanding regional capacity for mission-critical aircraft maintenance. It also supports the Pryor Field Airport Authority’s southwest expansion plan and benefits from regional economic incentives.
“This investment reflects continued confidence in Limestone County’s ability to attract and support world-class industrial operations,” said Limestone County Commission Chairman Collin Daly. “We’re excited to partner with Strata-G Solutions and Aleut Real Estate as they grow their footprint here and create new, high-quality jobs for our residents.”
Tax incentives approved by Limestone County include over $1.04 million in abatements to assist with startup costs over the next 10 years. The project is expected to contribute more than $1.1 million to local schools during that period.
“This project highlights exactly the kind of forward-looking, high-impact development we work to afract to Alabama,” said Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “Aleut Real Estate and Strata-G Solutions are delivering a facility that will enhance our aviation infrastructure, support defense prioriKes and create meaningful opportunitiKes for our skilled workforce.
“We’re proud to support this investment and the strong partnerships that made it possible.”
“This project is a win on every level,” said Bethany Shockney, president & CEO of the Limestone County Economic Development Association. “Strata-G Solutions and Aleut Real Estate bring tremendous value to our local economy and workforce. Their investment underscores Limestone County’s continued emergence as a hub for high-tech and advanced manufacturing operations. We look forward to supporting their success in the years ahead.”
With sitework beginning immediately, the next 18 months will see major construction
milestones. As part of regional infrastructure improvements, a roadway and upgrades to Airport Road are being supported through $776,400 in state funding.
Once operational, the hangar will include highly specialized infrastructure capable of supporting aircraft with wing spans exceeding 130 feet, enhancing logistical support for clients such as Boeing, the military and Customs and Border Patrol.
Pryor Field Regional Airport Director Adam Fox also noted the impact on the region’s aerospace footprint.
“Pryor Field is proud to support investments like this that align with the airport’s mission to grow aviaKon-related industry and create opportunity throughout our region,” he said.
Aleut Real Estate is working with Fite Building Co. to lead the development through pre-construction and construction phases. Hangar completion is targeted for early 2027.
Key project facts:
- $32.7 million capital project
- Completion: Early 2027
- Jobs Created: 50 aviation-related positions anticipated within three years
- Facility Functions:
Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility for commercial and military aircraft
Aircraft painting capabilities supporting aircraft as large as a Lockheed C-130 - Aircraft Capacity:
Will support aircraft with wingspans exceeding 130 feet, accommodating up to four full CH-47 Chinooks with blades or Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft.
Approximately 346,000 square feet of exterior aircraft parking and tie-down area
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