The expansion is projected to create more than 350 jobs over the next five years. It builds on a previously announced development at the same location, further strengthening the company’s production capacity.
“L3Harris’ continued investments in solid rocket motor facilities are bolstering manufacturing capacity for key national defense programs,” said Ken Bedingfield. “With a talented workforce and a community committed to long-term success, our expanded presence in Virginia will deliver additional capability to the Department of War and our allies.”
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger said, “I congratulate L3Harris on its historic expansion in Central Virginia.” She added, “With a deep talent pipeline and strong track record in the defense and advanced manufacturing sectors, the Commonwealth is ready to fill the hundreds of new positions coming to Orange County. L3Harris exemplifies the kind of partnership that builds the future of Virginia, and we look forward to celebrating this investment for many years to come.”
Local officials also highlighted the long-term impact of the investment on the regional economy. Bryan Nicol said, “On behalf of the Board of Supervisors and our Economic Development team, we are thrilled to recognize and support L3Harris’ $1.265 Billion expansion and the creation of 350+ new jobs in Orange County. This is a transformational announcement that will benefit Orange County for decades.”
Nicol added, “L3Harris has been an important, long-time member of our business community – making their growth and continued investment here particularly gratifying. This project is a recognition of Orange County’s strong business climate, its economic vitality and our region’s qualified workforce. The Board is grateful to be receiving a grant from Governor Spanberger’s Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund and support from the General Assembly’s Major Employment Investment Project Approval Commission to bring this opportunity to the Commonwealth.”
U.S. Representative Eugene Vindman said, “I’m pleased to see L3Harris expanding its operations in Virginia, bringing hundreds of good-paying jobs to Orange County while strengthening manufacturing capacity for critical national defense programs.” He added, “This investment will more than double their footprint and build on a long track record of success in the region. I look forward to continuing to partner with L3Harris to support this growth, create new opportunities for our workforce, and advance the aerospace innovation that drives both our economy and our national security.”
The new facilities will support a range of production activities, including mixing, grinding, casting and final assembly of solid rocket motors. The Orange County site currently serves as the company’s Center of Excellence for propellant research and small- to medium-sized motor production.
L3Harris is also expanding production capacity at its facilities in Arkansas and Alabama. The company said these investments are intended to significantly increase output rates for key defense programs across multiple sites.
