Starfighters Space Expands to Midland with Support from Midland Development Corporation

Starfighters Space Expands to Midland with Support from Midland Development Corporation Midland, Texas — Sept. 24, 2024 — Starfighters Space, a leader in spaceflight innovation, is expanding its operations to Midland under an economic development agreement with the Midland Development Corporation (MDC). The agreement, approved at the September 9 board meeting by the MDC board of directors, received final approval from the Midland City Council on September 24th. 

Starfighters Space operates a private fleet of F-104 and F-4 aircraft, conducting research and development for commercial and defense industries, as well as providing pilot and spaceflight training. The company plans to relocate at least $78 million in capital assets and equipment to the Midland International Air & Space Port by 2027. As part of the expansion, Starfighters Space will create 23 new full-time jobs in Midland by 2033. 

The company will move into a newly constructed MDC-owned hangar at the Midland Spaceport Business Park, joining a growing cluster of aerospace and defense operations in the region. The facility will support Starfighters Space’s advanced spaceflight programs and improve its operational efficiency. 

"We’re excited to partner with the Midland Development Corporation as we expand our operations to the Midland International Air & Space Port," said Rick Svetkoff, president and CEO of Starfighters Space. "This collaboration is a key step in advancing our spaceflight capabilities and strengthening our presence in the aerospace industry. With Midland’s strategic location and MDC’s support, we’re well-positioned to enhance our research, development, and training programs, benefiting both Starfighters Space and the broader West Texas community." 

As part of the partnership, Starfighters Space and MDC are working to secure FAA approval and certification for a high-speed airspace corridor from the Midland International Air & Space Port, leveraging Starfighters’ supersonic aircraft. 

MDC has been instrumental in facilitating Starfighters Space’s expansion, recognizing the company’s potential to drive economic growth and technological advancement in West Texas.

“We are honored to welcome Starfighters Space to Midland,” said Lourcey Sams, chairman of the MDC board. “Their decision to expand here highlights Midland’s growing reputation as a hub for aerospace innovation. We look forward to the positive impact Starfighters Space will have on our community.” 

The expansion highlights Midland’s increasing prominence in the aerospace sector, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for high-tech industries.