Starfighters Space Inc. has opened its second launch facility at the Midland International Air and Space Port, expanding its capabilities in hypersonic research and aerospace innovation. Headquartered at Kennedy Space Center, the company is known for its commercial fleet of supersonic F-104 and F-4 aircraft used for air-launching payloads, research, and pilot training.
Starfighters Space’s expansion is part of an agreement with the Midland Development Corp. (MDC), which makes Midland International Air & Space Port the first commercial spaceport co-located with an FAA Part 139 commercial airport. This strategic location allows Starfighters Space to leverage shared resources for commercial space missions and research projects.
Midland will be a key southwestern hub for our operations, enabling us to reach various military areas more quickly and cost-effectively.
Starfighters Space CEO Rick Svetkoff
The company plans to invest $78 million in capital assets and equipment at Midland by 2027, establishing the site as a cornerstone of its “Hypersonic Test Corridor” initiative. This corridor will support testing for hypersonic research, enhancing access to military operating areas across the Southwest, and extending to Mojave and Vandenberg Space Ports.
“Midland will be a key southwestern hub for our operations, enabling us to reach various military areas more quickly and cost-effectively. MDC truly understood the value of securing multiple launch facilities and worked closely with us to bring this project to life,” said Starfighters Space CEO Rick Svetkoff. “
The new facility will also support the development of StarLaunch, Starfighters’ supersonic space delivery platform in collaboration with GE Aeronautics. Starfighters Space plans to create 23 full-time jobs in Midland by 2033, further boosting the region’s economic growth.
“We are honored to welcome Starfighters Space to Midland. Their decision to expand here highlights Midland’s growing reputation as a hub for aerospace innovation,” said MDC Board Chairman Lourcey Sams.
With this expansion, Starfighters Space solidifies its position as a leader in the aerospace sector, enhancing its capabilities for commercial and defense applications while contributing to the future of space exploration.
