The 94,000-square foot facility was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by elected officials, customers and industry leaders. It is designed to accelerate production of next-generation satellites capable of identifying, tracking and defending against hypersonic and advanced missile threats.
Christopher E Kubasik, chair and chief executive of L3Harris, said the expansion underscored the company’s commitment to advancing US space and defence capabilities, saying, “Accelerating the production of proven hardware for national missile warning and defence remains a priority as we align resources across the enterprise to support the president’s vision for America’s Golden Dome.”
L3Harris already supports US missile warning and defence operations with five satellites on orbit and a further 34 satellites in development to track hypersonic threats as part of the Department of Defense’s missile warning and defence architecture.
Kubasik added, “We continue to deliver advanced space-based technology with the speed and agility required to protect our homeland from advanced threats while bolstering US manufacturing and continued investment in Florida.”
US Congressman Mike Haridopolos praised the company’s role in national security, saying, “L3Harris is an instrumental leader, not just in space, but in national defence, as you’re a vital part of the Golden Dome.”
Palm Bay Mayor Rob Medina said the facility would bring both strategic and local benefits.
“This advanced facility plays a vital role in strengthening our national security and sustaining the technological edge that keeps our country safe,” Mayor Medina said. “The investment not only supports key defence and space missions but also drives economic opportunity here at home through high-skill, high-wage jobs.”
L3Harris has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure and manufacturing upgrades across the US. In total, the company’s investments now represent more than 900,000 square feet of new and renovated advanced manufacturing space nationwide to produce space-based missile warning and defence technologies, precision fire-control sensing systems, and propulsion and control systems for interceptors.