(Photo from General Atomics website)
General Atomics is expanding its operations in Shannon with an $87 million investment that will create 125 jobs and further strengthen the company’s long-standing presence in Lee County.
The project includes construction of a new 200,000-square-foot manufacturing facility that will expand production capabilities for General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems’ advanced weapons systems, including Vektrex™, a maneuvering 155mm precision-guided munition designed to extend the range and effectiveness of artillery forces, along with other precision-strike programs.
“General Atomics has chosen Mississippi again, and it’s another great win for the people of our state,” Gov. 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 develops and manufactures advanced technologies for defense, government and national security customers, addressing critical mission needs across a range of operational environments.
The expansion follows a $25 million investment announced by General Atomics in March to update and expand its advanced weapons production line with new, fully automated computer numerical control machines.
Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance with site preparation and construction costs, as well as support through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, program. Lee County also is assisting with the project.
“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,” Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork said. “That’s what Mississippi delivers. 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.”
Headquartered in San Diego, General Atomics develops and manufactures technologies supporting operational environments ranging from undersea applications to space.
The company established its Electromagnetic Systems Group Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Shannon in 2005, making the latest expansion part of more than two decades of investment in the Lee County community.
“A strong defense industrial base is essential to America’s security and economic strength,” said Scott Forney, president of General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems. “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.”
The new facility is expected to be completed in 2028.