Melbourne, Florida – L3Harris Technologies has completed a USD 100 million expansion of its satellite integration and test facility in Palm Bay, strengthening support for the US Department of Defense’s urgent requirement for on-orbit technology underpinning America’s Golden Dome. The investment enhances the Space Coast’s existing capabilities and is intended to enable delivery of key components for the programme during President Trump’s second term.

 

The expanded 94,000-square-foot facility was officially opened at a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by elected officials, customers and business leaders. The site is designed to produce next-generation satellites capable of identifying, tracking and defending against hypersonic and advanced missile threats.

 

Christopher E. Kubasik, Chair and CEO of L3Harris, said accelerating the production of proven hardware for national missile warning and defence remains a priority for the company as it aligns resources to support the Golden Dome initiative. He noted that L3Harris continues to deliver advanced space-based technology with the speed and agility required to counter evolving threats, while also reinforcing US manufacturing capability and sustained investment in Florida.

 

L3Harris already provides critical missile warning and missile defence capabilities, with five satellites currently on orbit and a further 34 under development to support hypersonic missile tracking as part of the Department of Defense’s existing missile warning and defence architecture.

 

The expansion has also been welcomed by local and national leaders. US Representative Mike Haridopolos described L3Harris as an instrumental leader in space and national defence, highlighting its central role in the Golden Dome programme. Palm Bay Mayor Rob Medina said the new facility strengthens national security while driving economic opportunity through high-skill, high-wage jobs, reinforcing Palm Bay’s position within the US defence and space sector.

 

Nationwide, L3Harris has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure and manufacturing processes, translating into more than 900,000 square feet of new and renovated advanced manufacturing space. These investments support the production of space-based missile warning and defence technologies, precision fire-control sensing, targets, and propulsion and control systems for interceptors.