In a landmark decision that reshapes the future of U.S. space defense operations, President Donald Trump has announced the relocation of U.S. Space Command headquarters from Colorado Springs to Huntsville, Alabama.
The move concludes a yearslong debate between Alabama and Colorado and affirms Redstone Arsenal as the optimal site for the command’s strategic mission.
“I am thrilled to report that the U.S. Space Command headquarters will move to the beautiful locale of a place called Huntsville, Alabama,” said President Trump. “Forever to be known from this point forward as Rocket City.”
The decision reverses a 2023 directive by former President Joe Biden to keep the headquarters in Colorado, citing military readiness. Alabama’s bipartisan congressional delegation has consistently advocated for Huntsville, pointing to the U.S. Air Force’s original 2021 recommendation and subsequent evaluations that favored Redstone Arsenal based on cost, infrastructure, and workforce readiness.
“Space Command is finally coming home to Alabama,” said Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Chairman of the Armed Services Committee. “This basing decision has been affirmed and reaffirmed by multiple agencies and officials across both administrations.”
The command oversees military space operations including communications, intelligence, missile defense, and radar systems. Huntsville’s robust aerospace and defense ecosystem, anchored by Redstone Arsenal and supported by a highly skilled workforce, was a decisive factor in the relocation.
“Alabama’s world-class aerospace and defense workforce stands ready to fulfill the mission and strengthen our national security,” said U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-AL).
Local leaders and institutions are already mobilizing to support the transition. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle emphasized the city’s readiness, citing resilient infrastructure and a deep commitment to national defense. The Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce confirmed that approximately 60 acres at Redstone Arsenal have been designated for the new headquarters, describing the site as “shovel-ready.”
“Our community has a proven track record of supporting the Department of Defense,” said Chamber CEO Chip Cherry. “We will use that experience to support Space Command personnel and their families as they relocate to the Huntsville region.”
The announcement drew praise from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers in Alabama, including Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) and Rep. Shomari Figures (D-Mobile), who called the move a “win” for Rocket City and a testament to the state’s aerospace leadership.
“This move will not only create high-quality jobs in the region, but also bring significant investments that benefit the entire state,” said Rep. Figures.
While Colorado’s congressional delegation expressed strong opposition, citing concerns over disruption and national security, Alabama officials underscored the cost-efficiency and strategic advantages of the move. Two recent reports indicated that relocating to Huntsville could save taxpayers nearly half a billion dollars.
“Thankfully, President Trump, Secretary Hegseth, and Secretary Meink are restoring merit and integrity to the process,” said U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL).
The relocation is expected to generate substantial economic impact across North Alabama, with job creation spanning defense, engineering, and support services. Local colleges and universities are poised to contribute to workforce development, ensuring a seamless transition for incoming personnel and long-term sustainability for the command’s operations.
“North Alabama is ready for the transition, and the benefits will be felt across the entire country,” said Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville).
