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The Redstone Arsenal base operator may be reached at 256-876-2151. This is an automated system, so please listen carefully.
With the potential for domestic and foreign terrorism, security is given high priority at Redstone Arsenal. Guards are posted at all entry points. Proper identification is required as your ID will be scanned at all gates. If you have an outstanding warrant, the police will be alerted. Facial recognition lanes are present at Gates 1 and 9 for single occupancy vehicles. You may register your valid driver's license for entrance into Redstone Arsenal by visiting the Gate 9 Visitors Center. Please ensure your guests are escorted at all times if you're in the position of the sponsor under Trusted Traveler rules.
Photography and access are limited or prohibited in marked areas. Drones are prohibited. If you spot suspicious behavior, please contact the police at 256-876-2222.
Handheld devices are prohibited while operating a motor vehicle on Redstone Arsenal. Hands-free units are allowed.
Redstone Arsenal delivers integrated readiness for the Nation by advancing Army aviation, missile defense, space operations and joint federal missions. Building on a legacy of innovation in rocketry and space exploration, the Arsenal provides world‑class support to warfighters, partners and national security agencies. Through modernization, infrastructure expansion and collaborative leadership, Redstone ensures enduring capability, resilience and technological excellence for the future defense of the United States.
Redstone Arsenal: A Brief History
Redstone Arsenal, located in Huntsville, Alabama, has evolved into one of the United States’ most significant centers for Army materiel, missile development, and space-related activities. Its history reflects major national defense priorities from World War II through the modern era.
World War II Origins (1941–1945)
Redstone Arsenal was established in 1941 as a manufacturing hub for chemical ammunition. The installation housed the Huntsville Arsenal and the Gulf Chemical Warfare Depot, producing and storing chemical agents needed during the war. Thousands of civilians and military personnel supported production on-site.
Early Cold War and Rocket Development (1949–1960)
Following WWII, the Arsenal’s mission shifted toward research and development. In 1949, the Army created the Ordnance Missile Laboratories, which became home to Dr. Wernher von Braun and his team—pioneers in U.S. missile and rocket development.
Key achievements from this era include:
These successes made Huntsville known as the “Rocket City.”
NASA and Space Exploration (1960s–Present)
In 1960, NASA established the Marshall Space Flight Center on Arsenal property. Marshall became central to U.S. human spaceflight, overseeing:
Growth of Army Materiel, Aviation, and Missile Commands (1960s–Present)
Over the decades, Redstone Arsenal expanded into a hub for Army logistics, missile defense, and R&D. Major organizations include:
In recent years, the FBI and other federal agencies have also expanded operations on the installation, broadening its national security role.
New Space Force / Space Command Headquarters: As of late 2025, U.S. Space Command has officially relocated its permanent headquarters from Colorado Springs to a new 60‑acre site at Redstone Arsenal—marking a pivotal step in aligning Space Force leadership with Redstone’s expanding space mission.
Today
Redstone Arsenal is a multi-mission federal center supporting Army readiness, missile systems, aviation modernization, space exploration, logistics, and national defense. With more than 45,000 personnel across military, civilian, and contractor roles, it remains one of the region’s largest employers and a critical asset to U.S. defense and aerospace.
Microsoft. (2026) Response generate by Copilot to the prompt “Provide a brief synopsis of Redstone Arsenal” history." Microsoft 365 Copilot. Accessed March 6, 2026.
Huntsville is the most populous city in Alabama and was ranked as the 100th most populous city in the 2020 census. As of July 2025, Huntsville is among the top 20 fastest growing cities in the United States. Huntsville is the county seat of Madison County with portions extending into Limestone County, Marshall County and Morgan County. Huntsville is one of the most up-and-coming recognized cities in the Southeast and is consistently named as one of the best places to live and work by a variety of national publications. Huntsville is widely recognized as a hub for technology, space and defense industries, accompanied by several Fortune 500 companies.
Redstone Arsenal's workforce breakdown includes nearly 900 active duty soldiers and reserve military, roughly 27,300 civilians and just over 17,000 contractors totaling approximately 45,500 people. The annual economic impact on Alabama is $36.2 billion dollars.
Redstone Arsenal is located in Madison County adjacent to Huntsville, Alabama, spanning roughly 38,000 acres of rolling terrain bordered in part by the Tennessee River and areas of the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Positioned within the rapidly growing Huntsville-Decatur metro area, the installation is easily accessible through multiple gate entrances, most notably Gate 9 on Rideout Road, and sits near major roadways, research centers and federal partners. Its location provides a strategic blend of urban proximity, natural buffer zones and transportation access that supports its diverse defense, space and federal missions.
Additionally, access to recreation opportunities and services are easy and convenient. Local attractions will keep your family busy while you can also enjoy the ease of traveling to other metropolitan areas such as Birmingham, AL (100 miles), Atlanta, GA (246 miles), Chattanooga, TN (103 miles), Nashville, TN (125 miles), Memphis, TN (216 miles) or Destin, FL (358 miles).
Huntsville International Airport, also known as Carl T. Jones Field, is located at 1000 Glen Heard Rd. approximately ten miles (10-15 minutes) from Redstone Arsenal via Gate 9. Several major airlines arrive and depart daily including non-stop flights to approximately 18 destinations. Terminal features include free wi-fi, on-site dining, retail shops, lounges and an on-site Four Points by Sheraton Hotel. TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are available with minimal wait times. Public transportation includes taxis, shuttle services, rental cars and Uber/Lyft. To reach Redstone Arsenal from the airport, go straight on Glenn Heard Road to the intersection of I-565. Turn right towards Huntsville. Take the exit towards Redstone Arsenal/Research Park.
Visitors must have proper identification to access Redstone Arsenal. Identification such as a military ID, common access card, dependent ID, survivor access card or other War Department issued ID must be presented to gate security at access points. All other United States visitors must present a Real ID-compliant driver's license/ID card or a passport at the Redstone Visitor Control Center for entry. IDs will be registered in the Automated Installation Entry system. Gates 9 and 1 offer facial recognition lanes. Stop by the Gate 9 Visitors Center, located at 130 Golf Course Rd, for more information.
Redstone Arsenal does not provide taxi, shuttle or bus services. When requesting an off-post taxi or Uber, please ensure the company and driver has proper access to post.
The Redstone Arsenal information line may be reached at 256-876-2151. Please listen carefully to all options available. This is an automated line.
Additional information may be obtained by calling the Gate 9 Visitors Center at 256-876-7738.