(Photo from General Atomics website)
- The latest expansion project includes the construction of a new 200,000-square-foot manufacturing facility that will expand production capabilities for the company’s advanced weapons systems.
The Mississippi Development Authority announced Thursday that General Atomics is expanding again in Shannon.
“General Atomics has chosen Mississippi again, and it’s another great win for the people of our state,” Governor Tate Reeves said. “This $87 million investment and the 125 jobs it will create are further proof that Mississippi is not just part of America’s defense industrial base, we’re essential to it. The technologies that keep America strong are being built right here in Mississippi.”
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems supports defense, government and national security customers through the development and manufacturing of advanced technologies that address critical mission needs.
The latest expansion project includes the construction of a new 200,000-square-foot manufacturing facility that will expand production capabilities for the company’s advanced weapons systems including Vektrex, a maneuvering 155mm precision-guided munition designed to extend the range and effectiveness of artillery forces and other precision-strike programs.
“A strong defense industrial base is essential to America’s security and economic strength. This investment strengthens our ability to meet evolving national security needs by expanding manufacturing capacity, creating high-quality jobs and driving innovation that supports America’s long-term defense readiness,” said Scott Forney, President, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems.
General Atomics, headquartered in San Diego, manufactures and develops innovative technologies to create breakthrough solutions supporting operational environments from undersea to space.
The company established its Electromagnetic Systems Group Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Shannon in 2005.
Thursday’s announcement follows news from March where General Atomics announced a $25 million investment to update and expand its advanced weapons production line with new, fully automated computer numerical control machines.
“Projects of this scale happen when strong partnerships are in place and everyone is focused on getting the job done as quickly and efficiently as possible. That’s what Mississippi delivers,” Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork said. “For years, General Atomics’ team in Shannon has developed and manufactured the advanced defense technologies that directly support our nation’s security, and Mississippi is proud to remain a major part of that work.”
The Mississippi Development Authority said the state agency is providing assistance with site preparation and construction costs along with support through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, program while Lee County is also assisting with the project.
The expansion project is expected to be completed in 2028.
