L3Harris Technologies announced a $1.27 billion investment to expand its manufacturing operations in Orange County, Virginia, significantly increasing production capacity for solid rocket motors and creating more than 350 jobs.
The expansion will more than double the company’s existing manufacturing footprint at its Virginia site, which currently serves as a Center of Excellence for propellant research and the production of small- to medium-sized solid rocket motors. The project includes the construction of new facilities to support key operations such as mixing, grinding, casting, and final assembly.
The investment builds on previously announced expansion efforts and aims to strengthen manufacturing capacity for critical national defense programs. The project reflects growing demand for advanced propulsion systems and increased focus on domestic production capabilities.
State and local partners, including the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and regional economic organizations, played a key role in securing the expansion. The project is supported by multiple incentive programs, including grants from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund and the Virginia Investment Performance Grant, as well as workforce training support through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.
The expansion reinforces Virginia’s position as a hub for aerospace and advanced manufacturing, supported by a skilled workforce and strong industry partnerships.
KEY QUOTES:
“I congratulate L3Harris on its historic expansion in Central Virginia. 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 is critical to Virginia’s future success, and I look forward to continuing to create a thriving business climate that brings further investment to our Commonwealth.”
Abigail Spanberger, Governor, Virginia
“A $1.27 billion investment doesn’t happen without the right partners at every level. I applaud Orange County, the Central Virginia Partnership, and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership for their work to secure this project for Virginia. Under Governor Spanberger, we are bringing life-changing, historic investments to the Commonwealth, and we are just getting started.”
Carrie Chenery, Secretary Of Commerce And Trade, Virginia
“L3Harris’ continued investments in solid rocket motor facilities are bolstering manufacturing capacity for key national defense programs. 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.”
Ken Bedingfield, President, Missile Solutions, L3Harris Technologies
“Virginia’s status as a leader in aerospace manufacturing is made possible by our talented workforce and research capabilities. L3Harris’ historic investment in Orange County reflects what is possible when state, local, and industry partners work together to create job opportunities for Virginians. With our commitment to job creation, talent development, and research, we are positioning the Commonwealth at the forefront of rocket technology.”
Luke Torian, Chair, Major Employment And Investment Project Approval Commission
“L3Harris’ decision to strategically expand in Orange County is a significant victory for the Commonwealth. This investment will bring skilled jobs, reinforce the Commonwealth’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities, and generate meaningful economic impact across the region.”
L. Louise Lucas, Vice Chair, Major Employment And Investment Project Approval Commission
“By making intentional investments in workforce development and working closely with our trusted local partners, Virginia has established the unparalleled economic ecosystem that made L3Harris’ investment possible. Projects like this make the Commonwealth a place where families and companies are able to grow and prosper.”
Don Scott, Speaker, Virginia House Of Delegates
“I am deeply proud to see L3Harris double down on their commitment to my home county, reinforcing Orange as a vital hub for aerospace innovation. This expansion is far more than a local economic milestone; it is a strategic investment in our national security, ensuring that the critical technologies protecting our nation are built right here by Virginia’s world-class workforce.”
Bryce Reeves, Senator, Virginia
“Investment in this region is critical; as manufacturing gets re-shored, we have to ensure our state and local climates are ready for folks to set up shop. I am thrilled that these jobs and investments are coming into Orange County — it is a testament to what our rural community has built.”
Phillip Scott, Delegate, Virginia
“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. 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.”
Eugene Vindman, U.S. Representative
“As an established leader in both the manufacturing and defense tech industries, Virginia is an ideal expansion location for L3Harris. VEDP worked closely with Orange County and the Central Virginia Partnership to assist L3Harris with this business expansion, which will deliver a significant investment and many high-quality job opportunities for Virginians. We will see the impact of this project for many years to come.”
Jason El Koubi, President And CEO, Virginia Economic Development Partnership
“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. 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.”
Bryan Nicol, Chairman, Orange County Board Of Supervisors
“CVPED is thrilled to celebrate such a major expansion by L3 Harris in our region. As the new home of the Central Virginia National Security Alliance, supported by Orange County, we are committed to advancing the continued growth and success of this critical sector. Congratulations to L3Harris and the entire Orange County team.”
Helen Cauthen, President, Central Virginia Partnership For Economic Development
