Solid rocket fuel innovator Adranos, Inc., will invest $1.35 million to expand its rocket motor research and development operations in McHenry, Mississippi. The company plans to create 25 jobs.

Located on the 640-acre, seven-building complex formerly occupied by General Dynamics, the company cited the location’s proximity to Stennis Space Center and its compliance with all Department of Defense safety requirements for munitions handling as primary reasons for choosing the location. Adranos constructed a rocket motor test stand at the site to test its next-generation rocket fuel.

“We are grateful for the continued support of Stone County and the state of Mississippi as we continue developing our high-performance solid rocket fuel. The McHenry location will provide us access to first-class facilities and an exceptional talent base to enable the growth of our rocket motor research, development, and production operations for years to come,” said Adranos CEO Chris Stoker.

Mississippi Development Authority and the Stone County Economic Development Partnership are providing assistance for building improvements as an incentive.

“Job creation is at the forefront of Mississippi’s economic development efforts, and announcements such as the Adranos expansion mean stronger communities, stronger economies and a stronger workforce that is ready to tackle the exciting jobs of the future. Adranos’s decision to add 25 new jobs at its McHenry location is a shining example of public-private partnerships working together to generate new opportunities for the people of our great state,” MDA Executive Director John Rounsaville noted.