MIDLAND, Texas — Midland International is set to welcome new developments in space operations as Starfighters International has entered into a partnership with the Midland Development Corporation (MDC). This agreement is expected to bring in at least $78 million in assets, along with the creation of 23 new jobs in the area.
Among the assets being introduced are F-104 fighter jets, which can reach speeds of approximately 1,400 miles per hour. Starfighters is dedicated to research and development within the realms of space, commercial applications, and defense operations, expressing confidence in their future endeavors in Midland.
Mike Smith, Vice President of Operations for Starfighters International, stated, “If they don’t see it, they’re going to hear it,” referring to the anticipated activity in the skies above. CEO Rick Svetkoff added, “You’ll hear fighters flying overhead quite a bit.”
In 2025, sustained Mach 2 aircraft are scheduled to take to the skies from Midland International. Smith explained, “Midland will be our point of launch. With these assets, especially our group two asset, we can reach any of these other spaceports without refueling, complete our missions, and return to our home base at Midland Space Port, establishing it as a premier, first-class spaceport.”
Starfighters will operate from a new hangar owned by MDC once construction is complete. Executive Director Sara Harris elaborated on the significance of this partnership, stating, “This aligns perfectly with MDC’s strategy to attract additional aerospace, aeronautics, and defense capabilities to Midland, helping to diversify the local economy.”
Pilot and spaceflight training are also integral components of Starfighters’ plans. Svetkoff noted, “We believe we have a significant capability for launching small rockets into low Earth orbit. This is a core part of our mission, alongside hypersonic operations—we aim to place small nanosatellites into orbit.”
The move to expand operations from Florida to include Midland is driven by the advantages of airspace and a central location. Harris emphasized, “Much of the airspace along the coasts for flights and launches is becoming increasingly congested. By relocating some of that activity to Texas, we can benefit not only Midland but potentially the nation.”
In addition, Svetkoff and Smith mentioned plans to establish an engine shop in Midland to provide servicing and maintenance for their aircraft.
Starfighters anticipates commencing some operations from temporary hangars as early as the first quarter of 2025.
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