Georgia Tech and PBS Aerospace Advance Small Turbojet Engines in Georgia

Georgia Tech and PBS Aerospace Forge Alliance to Propel Next-Generation Defense Innovation

The landscape of modern warfare is undergoing a seismic shift. Gone are the days when sheer size and firepower were the sole determinants of military might. Today, the skies are increasingly populated by small, agile, and intelligent systems, drones, missiles, and interceptors that demand a new class of propulsion: lightweight, affordable, and highly efficient. This evolution calls for a transformation in defense manufacturing, one that prioritizes speed, adaptability, and precision. Answering this call, a powerful partnership has emerged in Georgia, positioning the state at the epicenter of this technological revolution.

The collaboration between the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), a world-renowned research institution, and PBS Aerospace, a global leader in small turbojet engines, marks a pivotal moment for the U.S. defense industrial base. PBS Aerospace’s decision to establish its first U.S. headquarters and advanced manufacturing facility in Roswell, Georgia, was a strategic one, driven by the state’s burgeoning aerospace ecosystem, access to a high-tech talent pipeline, and proximity to Georgia Tech’s cutting-edge research capabilities. This alliance is not merely about building engines; it’s about architecting the future of defense technology and solidifying America’s role as a global leader in aerospace innovation.

A Strategic Partnership for National Security

The core of this collaboration lies in leveraging Georgia Tech’s academic and research excellence to advance PBS Aerospace’s proven small turbojet engine technology. These are not the massive engines of commercial airliners, but compact powerhouses, typically producing 100 to 200 pounds of thrust. They are the heart of the small, cost-effective drones and advanced cruise missiles that are redefining military strategy in conflicts across the globe. By focusing on these next-generation systems, the partnership directly addresses the evolving needs of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) for scalable and agile defense solutions.

The establishment of a U.S.-based manufacturing facility is a significant step toward strengthening the domestic defense industrial base. By bringing production to American soil, PBS Aerospace is drastically reducing reliance on international supply chains for critical defense components. The company has committed to having 99% of its supply chain based in the U.S., a move that enhances national security and ensures a more resilient and responsive manufacturing capability. This onshoring of production is crucial for maintaining a technological edge and ensuring the U.S. military has the tools it needs to meet any challenge.

The collaboration extends beyond manufacturing into active research and development. Even before the Roswell facility was fully operational, Georgia Tech faculty and students were already working with PBS engines in the Zinn Combustion Laboratory. Their research focuses on improving fuel efficiency, testing new materials, and optimizing engine performance. This hands-on, collaborative approach ensures that PBS engines remain at the cutting edge of propulsion technology, constantly evolving to meet the demands of the modern battlefield.

“This could be one of the largest expansions in domestic aerospace manufacturing in quite some time…Having that here in Georgia right now, with the talent and support to make it succeed, is amazing.” – Adam Steinberg, Professor in the School of Aerospace Engineering at Georgia Tech

Economic Impact and Workforce Development

The new PBS Aerospace facility in Roswell represents a significant economic investment in Georgia’s aerospace sector. The initial $20 million investment is just the beginning, with the parent company, PBS Group, planning an additional $90 million for further expansion of U.S. production capacity. This infusion of capital is projected to create over 100 specialized jobs in engineering, manufacturing, and operations, providing a substantial boost to the local economy. The plant itself has an ambitious goal: to produce thousands of small turbojet engines annually by 2026, with a potential capacity of up to 20,000 engines per year.

A key aspect of this initiative is its commitment to the nation’s veterans. A remarkable 71% of the technicians hired at the new facility will be U.S. military veterans. This focus not only provides valuable career opportunities for those who have served but also brings a wealth of real-world experience and discipline to the manufacturing floor. The proximity to technical colleges and Georgia Tech ensures a steady stream of skilled engineers and technicians, creating a robust talent pipeline to support the facility’s growth and innovation.

The project has received strong support from state and local leaders, who recognize its importance for both economic development and national security. The City of Roswell fast-tracked the permitting process, allowing construction to begin swiftly. This pro-business environment, combined with Georgia’s established aerospace infrastructure, creates a powerful synergy that attracts and nurtures high-tech manufacturing. The partnership is a testament to a broader strategy to position Georgia as a leader in the technologies that will define the future of defense.

A New Era for Aerospace Manufacturing

The alliance between Georgia Tech and PBS Aerospace is more than just a business venture; it represents a new model for defense innovation. By integrating world-class research directly with advanced manufacturing, the partnership accelerates the development and deployment of critical technologies. The engines produced in Roswell are already combat-proven at Technology Readiness Level 9, the highest level of technological maturity, making them ready for immediate integration into mission-critical systems for the DoD.

As the nature of conflict continues to evolve, the demand for small, intelligent, and scalable aerial systems will only grow. This collaboration ensures that the United States is not just a consumer of this technology, but a primary driver of its innovation and production. By fostering a domestic ecosystem of research, development, and manufacturing, Georgia is helping to secure the nation’s technological leadership and provide its military with the advanced capabilities needed to ensure success on any future battlefield.

FAQ

Question: What is the main focus of the partnership between Georgia Tech and PBS Aerospace?
Answer: The partnership is focused on advancing and producing lightweight, affordable, and highly efficient small turbojet engines for next-generation defense systems like drones, missiles, and interceptors. It combines Georgia Tech’s research expertise with PBS Aerospace’s manufacturing capabilities.

Question: Where is the new PBS Aerospace facility located?
Answer: The new U.S. headquarters and advanced manufacturing facility is located at 1350 Northmeadow Parkway, Suite 130, in Roswell, Georgia.

Question: What is the economic impact of this new facility?
Answer: The initial investment is $20 million, with plans for an additional $90 million. The facility is expected to create over 100 specialized jobs and aims to produce thousands of engines annually by 2026.

Sources: Georgia Tech News Center