As national security capabilities keep growing, more defense contractors continue to expand. Raytheon and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems are joining forces to establish a cutting-edge missile manufacturing facility in East Camden, AR. The $33 million capital investment marks a crucial step in producing Tamir missiles for the Iron Dome Weapon System and its U.S. variant, SkyHunter®. With over a decade of collaboration, the two companies have been instrumental in the success of the Iron Dome, boasting an impressive 90% success rate and over 5,000 operational intercepts. This new facility is set to become the first all-up-round production facility in the U.S., reaffirming America’s commitment to global defense and security. Groundbreaking is expected before the year’s end, with missile production slated to commence in 2025.
Layoffs: Sikorsky
Connecticut’s Sikorsky Aircraft is set to lay off 179 employees sometime this fall, as the company scales back its workforce due to the completion of several developmental programs and material shortages affecting cost-effectiveness. While this was a difficult decision, Sikorsky emphasizes its commitment to retaining essential personnel supporting critical national security missions.
The company’s proactive measures aim to maintain future cost-competitiveness while navigating the evolving defense industry landscape. Despite these layoffs, Sikorsky celebrated a substantial $2.7 billion Navy contract for 35 additional CH-53K King Stallion helicopters in August, reinforcing its ongoing contributions to national defense.
Hiring: United States Postal Inspection Service
The United States Postal Inspection Service has officially launched a public hiring initiative for Postal Inspector positions, inviting applications from qualified candidates. This application window is open until November 1. Postal Inspectors are essential in ensuring the safety, security, and integrity of the nation’s mail system. Their responsibilities encompass investigating various crimes connected to the mail, such as mail theft, fraud, identity theft, cybercrimes, and more. They also play a vital role in disaster response, crime prevention, and security enforcement. They actively collaborate with a multitude of law enforcement agencies to combat mail-related crimes, making this a unique and impactful career opportunity for those passionate about preserving the nation’s mail security.
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Opportunity to Watch
FTI is significantly expanding its presence in Colorado Springs with the establishment of the Operational Research Bridge for Innovation & Technology (ORBIT Center), a secure 46,000 square-foot facility designed to support the Department of Defense and mission partners in developing space-related defense and operations solutions. This Center of Excellence will play a critical role in advancing national security initiatives. The expansion, set to commence by December 31, 2024, with a $15 million investment, is expected to generate 200 high-paying job opportunities. Colorado Springs’ welcoming business environment and strong defense sector, along with the support of local officials, underscore the significance of FTI’s growth for the region and national security efforts.
