Ken Bedingfield, President of Aerojet Rocketdyne, L3Harris, said: “L3Harris’ growth in Virginia is another solid example of how we’re expanding our rocket motor manufacturing infrastructure to support the nation’s defense propulsion needs.” He added that the expansion, enabled through a Defense Production Act Title III cooperative agreement, will add to the company’s existing 256,000 square feet of manufacturing space and support world-class propulsion research and production.
The Virginia site serves as L3Harris’ Center of Excellence for Propellant Research and Small to Medium-sized Solid Rocket Motor Production. The expansion includes a 12,000-square-foot cast and assembly facility, a control room, areas for mixing and grinding operations, and upgraded motor testing capabilities.
The consolidated facility will centralise production for a critical defence programme and is expected to reduce the transport distance of motors during the manufacturing process by 90%. This efficiency is aimed at strengthening supply chain reliability and supporting rapid defence readiness.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin commented, “L3Harris’ continued expansion in Virginia underscores the Commonwealth’s pivotal role in safeguarding our nation’s security.” He highlighted Virginia’s workforce, infrastructure, and strategic East Coast location as key advantages for the defence and aerospace sectors.
Senator Tim Kaine stated, “I’m proud of Virginia’s continued leadership in the defense sector, which is made possible in part through crucial investments like L3Harris’ new solid rocket motor facilities.” He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the state’s defence industry and military readiness.
Senator Mark R. Warner said, “Thrilled to see L3Harris expand its presence in Virginia and continue to strengthen our defense industrial base.” He emphasised the job creation and research benefits this investment brings to Orange County and beyond.
Representative Eugene Vindman added, “This investment by L3Harris underscores how the Seventh Congressional District, and Virginia overall, remains a great place to build systems critical to our national security.” He called the project a model of “smart, strategic growth” that supports both national defence and local employment.
Greg Davis, Acting Director of Manufacturing Capability Expansion and Investment Prioritization at the U.S. Department of Defense, stated: “Investment in key capabilities for domestic defense production is integral to our efforts to continue to support warfighter requirements.” He noted this initiative also aligns with the Department’s goal to revitalise the defence industrial base.
In addition to the Virginia facilities, L3Harris is expanding its solid rocket motor production in Camden, Arkansas, and transitioning inert missile component production to Huntsville, Alabama. The company is also increasing output through digital process improvements and the deployment of new tooling and equipment.
