Firms launch $33 million project to build aviation facility at Alabama’s Pryor Field
Aleut Real Estate LLC (ARE) celebrated the official groundbreaking of a new state-of-the-art hangar facility at Pryor Field Regional Airport in Limestone County, an event that marked the beginning of a $32.7 million project in aviation infrastructure.
The hangar, which will focus on maintenance, repair and overhaul operations for commercial and military aircraft, is expected to create 50 jobs within three years. It’s expected to be completed by early 2027.
As outlined at the groundbreaking ceremony, ARE, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Aleut Corp. will develop the hangar with Strata-G Solutions, an Aleut-owned, Huntsville-based defense engineering and manufacturing firm.
“This groundbreaking reflects Aleut’s focus on intentional growth built on strong partnerships,” said Skoey Vergen, president and CEO of Aleut. “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,” he said.
The $32.7 million hangar being built at Pryor Field will focus on support for commercial and military aircraft. (contributed)
With sitework beginning immediately, the next 18 months will see major construction milestones. As part of regional infrastructure improvements, a new 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 wingspans exceeding 130 feet, enhancing logistical support for clients like Boeing and military branches, including the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection.
“Today’s groundbreaking is yet another sign that Alabama is charting a strong course in aviation and defense,” Gov. Kay Ivey said. “Aleut Real Estate’s investment at Pryor Field not only brings high-quality jobs to Limestone County, but it also strengthens our state’s role in national security and aircraft readiness.
“We are proud to welcome Aleut as partners in Alabama’s continued growth and leadership in these critical sectors.”
Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, said the project highlights exactly the kind of forward-looking, high-impact developments that the state is looking to attract.
“Aleut Real Estate and Strata-G Solutions are delivering a facility that will enhance our aviation infrastructure, support defense priorities and create meaningful opportunities for our skilled workforce,” said McNair, who is on a business development mission to the 2025 Paris Air Show.
Aerospace growth
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 Collin Daly, chairman of the Limestone County Commission. “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.”
Bethany Shockney, president and CEO of the Limestone County Economic Development Association, welcomed the investment project.
“This project is a win on every level. Strata-G Solutions and Aleut Real Estate bring tremendous value to our local economy and workforce,” she said. “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.”
This story originally appeared on the Alabama Department of Commerce’s Made in Alabama website.