Brevard County in the Running for Space Force HQ
November 20, 2020 – Brevard County and the space industry have been nearly synonymous since the middle part of last century. That connection may continue if the latest arm of the military chooses this county as its home.
The U.S. Air Force announced Thursday that Brevard County was selected as a finalist in the search for the U.S. Space Force headquarters.
In July, the Air Force received nominations from 26 states for the Space Command headquarters and narrowed the candidates down to six communities. The Space Coast is the only Florida location chosen even though several other Florida areas applied.
Analysts estimate the new HQ could add around 1,200 high paying jobs to the state and roughly $2 billion in direct Pentagon investment, which typically results in corporate relocations to the area and more jobs.
“Florida’s defense and aerospace ecosystem provide unique opportunities that would benefit USSPACECOM,” said Frank DiBello, President and CEO of Space Florida, “and I am pleased that the U.S. Air Force has identified that capability with Brevard County’s selection in the down-select process for its headquarters. Space Florida applauds today’s announcement and looks forward to working with the State of Florida, the Air Force and our local partners in continuing this effort.”
“Florida’s Space Coast is the 21st-Century answer for what will give our nation and warfighters the edge on this 21st-Century battlefield,” said EDC President and CEO, Lynda L. Weatherman. “Our unmatched quantity and quality of defense, civil and commercial space assets and expertise offer U.S. Space Command the agility, innovation and boldness needed to project space power.”
“I’m proud of our delegation’s efforts working together to make the case for Space Command Headquarters to locate in Brevard County, Florida, said U.S. Congressman Bill Posey, Florida’s 8th Congressional District. “Brevard’s strategic location and quality of life make it the ideal place for this important national mission to be centered. There’s still more work to do but I’m confident Brevard County has what it takes to make Space Force a success.”
The Department of the Air Force selection criteria includes capacity, community, and cost to capitalize on the highly specialized personnel and infrastructure required to support U.S. Space Command.
During the next phase, the USAF will conduct both virtual and in person visits with candidate locations in anticipation of a decision in early 2021. Colorado Springs, Colorado, remains the provisional headquarters until the permanent location has reached full operational capability.
RESOURCES:
Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast
U.S. Congressman Bill Posey Florida’s 8th Congressional District