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XTEND Reality Inc. Opens New Facility in Tampa: A Leap Forward in Innovation and Defense

XTEND Reality Inc., a key player in autonomous drone systems, has officially inaugurated its new U.S. headquarters and drone manufacturing facility in Tampa, Florida. This development is not merely a corporate expansion; it's a strategic move aimed at enhancing America's drone capabilities while providing high-tech jobs and significant investments in the local economy.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony saw attendance from federal, state, and local dignitaries, military officials, and community leaders, all celebrating what is described as a pivotal moment for both XTEND and U.S. defense initiatives. The new facility will manufacture and integrate advanced drone systems specifically tailored for critical U.S. defense missions, a response to growing demands for domestic production capabilities.

Leadership Insights

During the ceremony, CEO and Co-founder Aviv Shapira articulated the vision behind this facility. "We are not just building drones; we are cultivating resilience and trust in our national security system," he stated. Shapira emphasized the facility's role as a foundation for future advancements in human-machine collaboration and national defense.

Additionally, XTEND’s Vice President and U.S. General Manager, Roy Levy, remarked, "This establishment is not solely about creating advanced drone technology; it signifies our commitment to forging partnerships that strengthen America’s defense innovation ecosystem." He added that the focus is heavily on ensuring that the integration of these systems meets the fast-paced demands of the U.S. missions.

Pioneering the Future of Drones

Founded in 2018 by brothers Aviv and Matteo Shapira, along with Rubi Liani, XTEND has roots in advanced technology, having previously co-founded Replay Technologies, which was later acquired by Intel. The company's mission revolves around enhancing operators' control over drone systems, allowing for greater safety and performance in challenging conditions.

The new facility is designed to facilitate speedy integration of cutting-edge technologies, drastically shortening the timeline to deploy and customize critical drone systems. This is particularly significant given the increasing reliance on drone technologies for both defense and public safety.

Dr. Peter Kash, Chairman of the Board for XTEND, spotlighted the impact of the new facility on Florida's growing aerospace sector. “By positioning ourselves within the U.S. defense ecosystem, we are not just investing in our company but in the future security framework of our nation,” he said, outlining the potential for job creation and economy-wide benefits.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, XTEND plans to broaden its scope beyond the initial Group 1 drones developed under U.S. Department of Defense contracts. The company's strategy includes the manufacturing of other essential drone components such as communication modules and motors, further embedding itself in the nation's defense infrastructure.

As the demand for sophisticated drone systems surges, the Tampa facility is poised to play a crucial role in addressing these needs while establishing Florida as a cornerstone in the aerospace and defense industries. XTEND's commitment to innovation and excellence is expected to contribute significantly to both local economic growth and national security efforts.

In summary, XTEND Reality Inc.'s new headquarters is much more than a manufacturing space; it is a testament to the company's dedication to advancing drone technologies that can fundamentally alter the landscape of national defense. Through their cutting-edge innovation, they aim to enhance operational safety and efficiency, making a meaningful difference in public safety and defense missions as they unfold.