Dale Strong highlights North Alabama’s continuing role in space, national defense

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) is continuing to promote the Yellowhammer State for its key role in America’s space and national defense industries.

Strong posted two different examples on social media this week, demonstrating Alabama’s importance when it comes to keeping the nation secure.

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The congressman first praised the successful launch of a United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket manufactured in Decatur.

“Excited to see [ULA]’s Vulcan rocket made in Decatur, Alabama, in its first National Security Space Launch for the [SpaceForce]!” Strong said. “Alabama’s innovation and hard work are powering America’s future in space.”

The liftoff, a part of the United States Space Force (USSF)-106 mission, marks the first U.S. national security launch aboard a ULA Vulcan rocket. The launch occurred from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

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Strong also reacted to the news of Lockheed Martin’s plan to build a missile plant in north Alabama.

“I’ve visited this campus, and I can say Lockheed Martin’s new missile assembly plant in rural Lawrence County brings high-skilled jobs and advanced technology to a traditionally rural area, boosting the local economy and strengthening North Alabama’s role in defense,” Strong said. “It’s a win for both Lawrence County and the broader region!”

According to Lockheed-Martin Next Generation Interceptor and Space Vice President Sarah Reeves, the company is going to build an 88,000 square-foot assembly plant in Courtland for the long-range ballistic missile defense interceptor. The facility is expected to be completed by next year.

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee