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Raytheon's Strategic Expansion in Mississippi

Raytheon, a key player in the defense sector, has recently finalized a major expansion of its manufacturing facility located in Forest, Mississippi. The new addition encompasses 17,000 square feet and is supported by a significant investment of $50 million. This expansion aims to enhance the production capacity for critical defense systems that are essential for national security.

In this competitive landscape, protecting the nation's interests and bolstering military readiness is paramount. According to Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon, the completion of this expansion not only reinforces Raytheon's commitment to the local community but also to the overall defense capabilities of the United States. By collaborating with state and local partners, the company envisions building a robust workforce and the necessary infrastructure to support its growing production needs. This expansion is expected to create approximately 100 high-skilled jobs by 2028, offering valuable employment opportunities to local residents.

The Forest facility now boasts a total manufacturing footprint of 445,000 square feet, positioning it as one of the largest defense manufacturing plants within Mississippi. Remarkably, over the last decade, Raytheon has invested approximately $280 million in three significant expansions. This includes previous extensions in 2013 and 2020, which contributed essential capabilities for radar production and testing.

The site is set to serve as a central hub for the production, testing, and integration of advanced systems such as the Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band (NGJ-MB) pods. These systems play a crucial role in service not only to the U.S. Navy but also to allied forces, including the Australian government, demonstrating Mississippi's strategic role in supporting U.S. and allied defense efforts.

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves highlighted the importance of this project, calling it a monumental investment in the state's economy and national security. He expressed pride in the fact that the expansion not only strengthens the state's job market but also contributes to the legacy of Mississippi in protecting the nation from threats.

U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, who is the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, echoed these sentiments, stating that increasing domestic defense production not only creates jobs but ensures that the U.S. military is modernized and equipped to face challenges. The newly created jobs are expected to provide an economic boost to the region while supporting critically important military operations.

For four decades, Raytheon has been interwoven with the fabric of the Forest community. The company's continuous investment in local workforce development, education initiatives, and support networks enhances the overall well-being of the region. As one of the industry leaders in defense solutions, Raytheon remains committed to advancing technology while ensuring security for the U.S. and its allies.

About Raytheon

Raytheon operates as a leading provider of defense solutions, helping government entities and partners safeguard their national sovereignty. With over a century of experience, the company specializes in advanced technologies ranging from integrated air and missile defense systems to smart weapons and advanced radars.

About RTX

With a workforce exceeding 180,000 globally, RTX is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering. The company's expertise encompasses a diverse array of sectors, demonstrating a commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that tackle critical challenges worldwide. In 2025, RTX anticipates sales exceeding $88 billion, reflecting its primary role in redefining global defense capabilities.