By: ICN Bureau
Last updated : January 14, 2026 3:06 pm
Solstice’s investment will add new fiber spinning, composite coating, and analytical capabilities, positioning the facility as one of North America’s most advanced ballistic materials hubs
Solstice Advanced Materials, a global leader in high-performance specialty materials, is set to invest over $220 million to expand its ballistic fiber manufacturing facility in Colonial Heights, Virginia. The project is expected to create 100 full-time jobs in the region by 2029.
The Colonial Heights plant, a critical node in U.S. defense supply chains for more than 20 years, produces Spectra fiber and composite materials used in helmets, vests, vehicle armor, naval applications, and industrial products.
Solstice’s investment will add new fiber spinning, composite coating, and analytical capabilities, positioning the facility as one of North America’s most advanced ballistic materials hubs. Construction and equipment installation will take place between 2025 and 2029, with operational benefits ramping up through September 30, 2030.
“This investment underscores Solstice’s commitment to maintaining technology leadership in high-performance protective materials, strengthening U.S.-based manufacturing and enhancing supply chain resiliency for defense-critical materials,” said David Sewell, President and CEO of Solstice Advanced Materials.
“Our advanced fibers and composites deliver critical protection across defense, law enforcement and industrial applications – all of which represent significant growth markets for Solstice.”
Governor Glenn Youngkin hailed the expansion as a boost for Virginia’s manufacturing sector.
"Solstice Advanced Materials’ expansion in Chesterfield underscores Virginia’s leadership in the advanced manufacturing and materials industry,” he said. “Their ballistic fibers help protect those who protect us, and this growth reflects the strength of the Commonwealth’s talent. Partnerships like this will ensure Virginia remains the best place to build and innovate.”
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura added, “Solstice’s commitment to Chesterfield is a win for the Commonwealth and for our advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Virginia’s reliable infrastructure, pro-business climate, and world‑class workforce give innovators the confidence to scale critical technologies right here at home.”
The expansion will increase production of Spectra and Spectra Shield technologies, featuring ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers that are up to 15 times stronger than steel and 65% lighter than aramid fabrics.
With state-of-the-art R&D and prototyping capabilities—spanning fiber spinning, ballistic testing, and composite fabrication—Solstice aims to accelerate innovation cycles and deliver next-generation lightweight armor systems and advanced soldier protection solutions.
The project also aligns with U.S. military objectives to maintain domestic production of advanced ballistic materials amid rising global competition.
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), in coordination with Chesterfield County, supported the initiative through the Virginia Investment Performance (VIP) Grant, which helps companies create new jobs and supports employee recruitment and training. Additionally, Governor Youngkin approved a $1.5 million Commonwealth Opportunity Fund grant and a $2 million performance-based VIP grant to encourage ongoing investment by Solstice in Virginia.
“This expansion reflects our long-term confidence in the Commonwealth of Virginia and our commitment to advancing America’s defense industrial base,” said Lawrence Kast, Senior Vice President, Global Government Relations, Solstice Advanced Materials.
“We’re grateful for the collaborative support from state and local leaders, whose partnership ensures that the critical materials needed for national defense continue to be produced here in the United States.”