Solstice Advanced Materials (formerly part of Honeywell) announced plans to invest more than $220 million in multiple projects to expand production at its existing ballistic fiber manufacturing facility in Colonial Heights, Chesterfield County, Virginia, which is also expected to create 100 new full-time jobs in the region by 2029.
The Colonial Heights facility has been a cornerstone of U.S. defense supply chains for over two decades, producing Spectra® fiber and composite materials used in helmets, vests, vehicle armor and naval applications, along with an array of industrial applications. Through its investment, Solstice will enhance its facility with new fiber spinning, composite coating and analytical capabilities, creating one of the most sophisticated ballistic materials production hubs in North America. Construction and equipment installation are expected to occur between 2025 and 2029, with operational benefits expected to ramp through the projected completion date of Sept. 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.
“Solstice Advanced Materials’ expansion in Chesterfield underscores Virginia’s leadership in the advanced manufacturing and materials industry,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “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.”
“Solstice’s commitment to Chesterfield is a win for the Commonwealth and for our advanced manufacturing ecosystem,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura. “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 capacity for 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. The Colonial Heights facility’s state-of-the-art R&D and prototyping capabilities – spanning fiber spinning, ballistic testing and composite fabrication – enable Solstice to accelerate innovation cycles and deliver mission-critical advancements such as next-generation lightweight armor systems and advanced soldier protection solutions.