The U.S. House Appropriations Committee has advanced funding that moves the permanent headquarters for U.S. Space Command at Redstone Arsenal one step closer to reality, with $565 million included in a key military construction bill.

The funding is part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations bill, which cleared the committee during a markup on Tuesday. The package includes $115 million for design and $450 million for construction of the facility.

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville), a member of the committee, said the investment represents long-awaited progress for North Alabama.

“Establishing the Space Command headquarters at Redstone Arsenal is long overdue. This investment not only enhances our military strategy, but it also reinforces North Alabama’s critical role in our national defense,” said Congressman Strong.

Strong added that the funding marks a significant milestone toward beginning construction.

“This is a major step in the right direction to get shovels in the ground and deliver a permanent home for Space Command,” said Strong. “There is no better place than Redstone Arsenal to carry out this critical defense mission.”

As global threats continue to evolve, space has become a critical frontier for national defense. Space Command plays a key role in deterring aggression, protecting U.S. and allied interests, and safeguarding satellite and communication systems.

The legislation now heads to the full U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

The FY2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies bill is the first of the 12 annual appropriations bills and includes funding for military infrastructure as well as veterans’ healthcare, benefits and related programs.

Sherri Blevins is a reporter for 256 Today.