Harper Construction Celebrates Completion of New Two-Bay Hangar at U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground
We at Harper Construction are thrilled to announce the successful completion and official dedication of a new two-bay hangar at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG). The ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 9 marked the culmination of nearly three years of dedicated work, highlighting our commitment to excellence in military construction.
This state-of-the-art facility will be the operational hub for the Army’s Special Operations Aviation Command Flight Detachment and will also serve tenant units like the Military Freefall School (MFFS). The new hangar represents a significant upgrade in the capability and efficiency of aircraft maintenance and operations at YPG.
Meeting the Unique Challenges of Desert Operations
Chief Warrant Officer 5 David Jones, the detachment commander, emphasized the critical importance of this new facility. “Operating multi-million-dollar airplanes in the desert environment is particularly troubling when it comes to maintaining them and keeping them operational. Having them exposed to the elements where they are now, it tends to increase maintenance issues and maintenance times,” he explained. “Having a hangar like this allows us to perform the maintenance and operate here in an environment that will preserve them so they can be used in training and special operations missions for years to come.”
Jones added that the hangar would be operational immediately following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, with an airplane already positioned inside, ready for use.
Enhancing Training and Operational Efficiency
MFFS Commander Maj. Nicholas Garver highlighted the hangar's significant impact on their operations. “Flight detachment is critical to what we do out here,” Garver shared. “Having this facility helps us become more efficient. We do about 48% of all Department of Defense military freefall jumps out here, and without the flight detachment being part of our family, we wouldn’t be able to accomplish that.”
He noted that while the old hangars met mission requirements, the new facility will make it easier for mechanics and pilots to maintain the aircraft, ensuring that students can continue their training with minimal disruption.
A Landmark Project for Harper Construction
Lt. Col. Stephen Brooks, Deputy Commander of the L.A. District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, provided insights into the project's scope. “This is a $50 million aircraft hangar in support of the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command. We had the contract initiated in August 2021 with Harper Construction, and we broke ground in December 2021. We’re just happy to be here cutting the ribbon to soon officially open the hanger,” Brooks said.
Ronald Harper, founder and chairman of Harper Construction, expressed his pride in the project, describing the hangar as “a beautiful project” that ultimately “helps the country.”
A Comprehensive Facility for Modern Military Needs
In addition to the hangar, the facility includes a center for flight planning and communications, underscoring our commitment to supporting the U.S. military's long-term needs. This project not only enhances the operational efficiency of the YPG but also ensures the sustainability of military pursuits for years to come.
At Harper Construction, we are honored to contribute to the mission readiness and operational excellence of the U.S. Army. We extend our gratitude to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and all partners involved in this landmark project. Stay connected with us for more updates on our ongoing efforts to deliver exceptional construction solutions for our nation's defense.
