#USA #Cincinnati #Rolls-Royce #General Tool Company #Arleigh Burke

General Tool Company Expands Facility

General Tool Company (GTC) is poised to make a significant impact in the defense sector with its recent announcement regarding the expansion of its Cincinnati manufacturing facility. This strategic move aims to enhance production capabilities for the Rolls-Royce AG9160RF gas turbine generator, primarily used in the Arleigh Burke Class destroyer program of the U.S. Navy.

Increased Production Capacity

The organized expansion of GTC's facility reflects a proactive approach to fulfill the rising demands for naval defense systems. With this upgrade, GTC plans to scale its production from servicing two destroyers annually to three. This increase not only amplifies the output of critical military hardware but also showcases the robustness and scalability of the U.S. naval industrial base.

The AG9160RF acts as the class-standard generator set for the Flight III destroyers. It plays a crucial role in supplying the necessary electrical power to operate advanced systems such as the SPY-6 radar, which enhances the combat capabilities of these ships. Notably, Rolls-Royce gas turbine generators have been integral in powering every U.S. Navy destroyer and cruiser since the inception of the Spruance-class destroyer way back in 1975. This inclusive list features the Arleigh Burke, Zumwalt, and Ticonderoga classes.

Longstanding Partnership with Rolls-Royce

GTC boasts a rich partnership with Rolls-Royce that has flourished since the original DDG-51 program in the 1980s. As the exclusive manufacturing and integration partner of the AG9160RF product line, this expansion solidifies an already strong collaboration aimed at bolstering the operational readiness of the U.S. Navy's fleet.

Bill Kramer III, President of General Tool Company, expressed his enthusiasm about the project's significance: “The successful completion and full operation of our Evendale Naval Power Generation Facility reflects our continued investment in advanced manufacturing and our commitment to supporting critical defense programs. This achievement is the result of strong collaboration between General Tool Company, Rolls-Royce and the U.S. Navy.”

Impact on Employment and Economy

The expansion project has created 47 new jobs, contributing to a total payroll of $4.1 million, a significant boost for the local economy. This endeavor also reflects the partnership between REDI Cincinnati and JobsOhio, demonstrating a collective effort to enhance industrial capabilities in the Midwest region.

Jen Schwerin, Director for Early Lifecycle Naval Programs at Rolls-Royce Defense, emphasized the importance of this expansion: “This expansion highlights the industrial strength of the Midwest and our shared commitment to the U.S. Navy. By increasing throughput for the AG9160RF, we are helping ensure Flight III destroyers have the power needed to support the modern maritime mission.”

Each Flight III destroyer will incorporate three AG9160RF generator sets. These generators are vital for powering advanced combat systems and enhancing operational effectiveness, while being constructed by industry leaders like General Dynamics Bath Iron Works and Huntington Ingalls Industries.

About General Tool Company

General Tool Company, headquartered in Cincinnati, OH, stands out as a premier supplier specializing in complex hardware and systems within the defense and aerospace industries. The company is committed to advancing manufacturing capabilities and workforce development to strengthen the domestic defense industrial base and meet the evolving needs of national security clients.

GTC's expansion is a testament to their dedication to progress and partnership, setting the stage for enhanced naval defense capabilities and workforce growth across the region.