RTX, Collins Aerospace Investing $26.5 Million in Largo, Florida Radar Plant

RTX subsidiary Collins Aerospace announced May 11 that it would spend $26.5 million to expand its Largo, Florida factory to produce more commercial aviation radars and defense customer security systems. According to a company release, RTX expects the expansion to include hiring 100 new employees at the site in engineering and factory operations. The expansion is expected to become operational before the end of the year.

RTX, previously known as Raytheon, currently employs about 7,000 people in the state. Its Collins Aerospace factory in Largo produces the Condor Mk3, a surveillance radar that communicates directly with aircraft transponders, as well as the ASR-XM, a noncooperative radar for detecting aircraft.

In a statement, Collins Aerospace President of Avionics Nate Boelkins noted the necessity of radar systems for commercial aircraft to continue running without issues.

"As global airspace becomes more congested and contested, customers need secure, interoperable systems for seamless coordination. This expansion strengthens our ability to deliver critical capabilities that keep airline passengers safe and military operators mission-ready, faster," Boelkins said. "RTX has made significant investments in its people and operations across Florida, and we value our partnership with the State as we continue to grow." 

Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly, in a statement, praised the company for its investment in the state’s Tampa Bay region.

"As a long-standing presence in Florida's aerospace and aviation sector, Collins Aerospace's expansion in Largo not only bolsters the growing Tampa Bay-area military and defense cluster, but it also strengthens Florida's position as a leader in aviation manufacturing and national security," Kelly said. "Florida continues to attract leading aerospace manufacturers that are advancing cutting-edge aviation and defense technologies while creating high-skill jobs for Floridians."