MRO & Manufacturing
Collins Aerospace Invests $26.5M to Expand Largo Facility
Collins Aerospace invests $26.5 million to expand its Largo, Florida facility, creating 100+ jobs and boosting FAA radar production by 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from RTX.
Collins Aerospace, a business unit of aerospace and defense giant RTX, has announced a $26.5 million investment to expand its manufacturing facility in Largo, Florida. The strategic capital injection is designed to accelerate the manufacturing of commercial aviation radars and multi-domain security solutions tailored for defense customers.
According to the official company press release, the expansion project will generate over 100 new highly skilled jobs. These positions will span various disciplines, including engineering and factory operations, further bolstering the local high-tech workforce.
We understand that the investments comes at a critical time for both commercial aviation and military defense sectors, which are increasingly reliant on advanced, interoperable surveillance systems.
Boosting Radar Production and Security Solutions
The $26.5 million investment will primarily fund the development of a new, state-of-the-art Radar-Systems production area within the existing Largo footprint. According to the company, this new section of the facility is targeted to become fully operational by late 2026.
A key focus of the expanded facility will be manufacturing equipment for the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Radar System Replacement Program. Specifically, the Largo site will produce the Condor Mk3 cooperative surveillance radar and the ASR-XM non-cooperative radar system, both of which are critical for modernizing national airspace infrastructure.
“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.”
In the company press release, Nate Boelkins, president of Avionics at Collins Aerospace, highlighted the dual-use nature of the technology, emphasizing its importance for both commercial passenger safety and military mission readiness.
Economic Impact and RTX’s Footprint in Florida
The Largo facility expansion represents a continued commitment by RTX to the state of Florida. The aerospace conglomerate has maintained a significant operational presence in the state for more than four decades. Currently, RTX employs more than 7,000 people across eight major locations throughout Florida.
The local economic impact extends beyond the immediate creation of over 100 engineering and factory jobs. Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly stated in the release that the expansion strengthens Florida’s position as a hub for aviation manufacturing and national security initiatives.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that this $26.5 million investment aligns with broader aerospace industry trends focused on modernizing aging air traffic control infrastructure and enhancing multi-domain defense capabilities. RTX, which reported 2025 sales exceeding $88 billion and employs over 180,000 people globally, is strategically allocating capital to facilities that directly support high-priority government Contracts, such as the FAA’s radar replacement efforts. By expanding domestic manufacturing capacity in Florida, Collins Aerospace is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for advanced, secure surveillance technologies without relying heavily on outsourced production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment by Collins Aerospace in the Largo facility?
Collins Aerospace is investing $26.5 million to expand its Largo, Florida manufacturing site.
When will the new radar production area be operational?
According to the official press release, the new radar production area is expected to become fully operational by late 2026.
How many jobs will the expansion create?
The project is projected to create over 100 new highly skilled jobs, primarily in engineering and factory operations disciplines.
What specific systems will be produced at the expanded facility?
The facility will produce commercial aviation radars and defense security solutions, including the Condor Mk3 cooperative surveillance radar and the ASR-XM non-cooperative radar system for the FAA’s Radar System Replacement Program.
Sources
Photo Credit: RTX