AEDC's Large Rocket Motor Test Facility going strong after 20 years Published July 30, 2013 By Raquel March AEDC/PA ARNOLD AIR FORCE BASE, TENN. -- The construction for Arnold Engineering Development Complex's (AEDC) Large Rocket Motor Test Facility (J-6) ended July 30, 1993. Today the facility continues to test the nation's large ICBM's such as the Peacekeeper and Minuteman systems and new developmental systems. Following the signing of official control transfer documents, the facility was presented to the director of facilities in a ceremony that represented seven years of continuous teamwork and dedication which began in 1986. Construction of the facility began in 1990. In 1989 a $176 million construction contract was awarded to Ebasco Newberg Construction. The J-6 project met its construction deadline 114 days early and under budget. "A bright chapter in Arnold's history, a bright chapter in Air Force's history and a bright chapter in our nation's future," said Gen. Ronald Yates at the J-6 ribbon cutting ceremony, then commander of Air Force Materiel Command. "The facility now gives us the capability to safely test advanced high energy solid propellant rocket motors for use in space." Yates said J-6 will test commercial systems and "ensure taxpayers get the greatest value from their investment while helping American industry maintain their leadership in advanced solid rocket technology." J-6 tests large rocket motors up to 500,000 pounds of thrust and can simulate an altitude of 100,000 feet.