Gates said Humvee production at Red River has increased greatly over the years. In 2004, the depot was repairing and upgrading about two Humvees a week. Now it's about 32 a day.

"We will continue to need significant vehicles in the field, so I see this being a continuing high-priority activity for quite some time," Gates said.

Officials said it is a good sign for Red River, which has been on the military facility closing list in the past.