September 24, 2024

Saab to open new munition production facility in the United States

By Defence Industry Europe

At this year’s Eurosatory exhibition in Paris, French explosives manufacturer Eurenco signed new agreements with Saab, the leading Swedish defence and security company. — Photo: U.S. Air Force.

Swedish defence company Saab has announced plans to open a new manufacturing facility in Grayling, Michigan, strengthening U.S. national defence capabilities while creating high-quality jobs and increasing domestic production. This move comes as part of Saab’s ongoing partnership with the state of Michigan and the local community, aiming to address the urgent munitions needs of the U.S. military.

The new facility, expected to break ground in the fourth quarter of 2024, will focus on the final assembly and integration of shoulder-fired munitions and precision fire systems. Initial manufacturing is set to begin in early 2026.

“Given current global security challenges, it is critical that the United States strengthens its national defence capacity,” said Erik Smith, President and CEO of Saab in the U.S. “Saab is proud to partner with the state of Michigan to establish a world-class facility that will increase and modernise domestic production of munitions systems. We are making a long-term commitment not only to the U.S. defence industrial base but also to the local community, creating jobs and investing in the region.”

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also welcomed the investment, highlighting its economic and strategic benefits. “Saab’s transformative investment in Grayling will create 70 jobs and contribute to Michigan’s proud legacy in the defence industry. With Saab’s decision to ‘Make It in Michigan,’ we are continuing to build on our economic momentum and our strong reputation as a leader in advanced manufacturing. We built the arsenal of democracy to win WWII, and we’ll keep working hard to protect our national defence. Let’s get it done,” Whitmer said.

This new facility will mark Saab’s 10th in the United States, joining other sites that contribute to advanced manufacturing in aerospace, radar, sensor systems, and autonomous systems across states including Indiana, New York, Florida, Rhode Island, and California.