Anchorage, Alaska – The Aleut Corporation (Aleut) has partnered with SpinLaunch, a space technology company based in California, to develop a cutting-edge satellite launch facility on Adak Island, Alaska, positioning Adak as a key location in the growing space industry while driving economic growth for the region. In October 2024, Aleut and SpinLaunch finalized a land lease agreement, paving the way for infrastructure development and future launch operations.
SpinLaunch is developing a satellite launch system that delivers a substantially less expensive and more sustainable method to place constellations of small satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Unlike traditional fuel-based rockets, SpinLaunch uses a ground-based, electric-powered kinetic launch system that leverages technology and components from existing industries to construct an innovative mass acceleration system, which achieves hypersonic launch speeds without the need for enormous power generation or expensive launch vehicles.
SpinLaunch identified Adak as a prime location for this system due to its combination of geographic, logistical, and energy advantages:
- Geographic Advantage – Adak’s location in the Aleutian Islands offers access to favorable launch trajectories over the Pacific Ocean, supporting both commercial and government missions.
- Reliable Transportation Access – The island has an operational airport with scheduled passenger service and a deepwater port, enhancing logistical efficiency for launch operations.
- Potential for Green Energy – Adak’s strong wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal resources offer opportunities for renewable energy integration.
- Existing Military Infrastructure – Infrastructure from the former Naval Air Facility can be repurposed to support space operations, reducing development time and costs.
- Remote Location – The island’s isolated setting minimizes disruption to existing air and maritime traffic.
About Adak
Adak Island holds deep cultural significance and has a rich military history. During World War II, Adak became a pivotal site in the Aleutian Campaign, supporting efforts to counter invading Japanese forces. In the following decades, it played a significant role in U.S. military strategy during the Cold War. After military operations ceased in 1997, existing infrastructure and 47,150 acres of land transferred to Aleut in 2004, paving the way for new opportunities.
Efforts Underway
While the development of the Orbital Launch System is still in its early stages, plans to establish the necessary groundwork for long-term growth and development in Adak are underway. Currently, work includes site assessments to ensure responsible and sustainable development through environmental surveying, infrastructure assessments, regulatory compliance, and economic impact studies.
“Aleut is committed to driving economic growth on Adak while respecting its rich Unangax̂ heritage,” said Skoey Vergen, President & CEO. “This partnership with SpinLaunch reflects our dedication to creating shareholder value through sustainable development while fostering technological innovation in the Aleutian region.”
Through this collaboration, both organizations are working closely to align technical requirements with community priorities, ensuring that Adak’s strategic advantages are leveraged to their full potential while fostering economic opportunities for the community.
“SpinLaunch is committed to working closely with Aleut to build a sustainable, next-generation launch facility that aligns with our customers, supports technical innovation, and reflects the interests of the local community,” said David Wrenn, SpinLaunch’s CEO. “By leveraging Adak’s strategic location and infrastructure, we can accelerate the deployment of our kinetic launch system while contributing to the long-term prosperity of the region.”
About SpinLaunch
SpinLaunch is a space technology company committed to revolutionizing access to space by enabling the rapid, cost-effective deployment of launch, satellites, and services. Founded in 2014, SpinLaunch is headquartered in Long Beach, California, and has conducted a series of successful flight tests on its Suborbital Accelerator, located at Spaceport America. In 2025, SpinLaunch unveiled Meridian Space, a revolutionary LEO satellite communications constellation offering enterprises unmatched speed, reliability and flexibility. Learn more at spinlaunch.com.
About Aleut
The Aleut Corporation (Aleut) is an Alaska Native regional corporation established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. It serves over 5,000 Unangax̂ shareholders and descendants with a mission to provide economic growth and opportunities. Aleut’s portfolio includes businesses in government and mechanical contracting, real estate, technology and infrastructure, fuel sales, port services, environmental services, and energy. For more information, visit: aleutcorp.com.
Media Contacts
Aleut
Kate Gilling
Vice President, Marketing & Communications
kgilling@aleutcorp.com
SpinLaunch
Jan Helbing
Vice President, Marketing & Business Development
jan@spinlaunch.com