L3Harris Unveils Plans for Large-Scale Rocket Motor Plant in Camden
L3Harris will invest $500 million in a new rocket motor production plant in Camden, Arkansas. The project adds 50 jobs, expands defense manufacturing, and strengthens the state’s role in national security.
Arkansas is set to see a major expansion in its defense manufacturing sector with a new $500 million project from L3Harris Technologies, one of the nation’s leading defense and weapons firms. The company has announced plans to build a rocket motor production facility in Camden that will specialize in large solid rocket motors, significantly expanding its operations in the state.
The project builds on Aerojet Rocketdyne’s long-standing operations in Camden, where the L3Harris subsidiary has been based since 1979. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) estimates the new facility will generate about 50 jobs, adding momentum to the region’s expanding defense sector.
Deal Sparked by Paris Air Show Meeting
Momentum for the project accelerated after Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders met with L3Harris representatives at the Paris Air Show in June, accompanied by Arkansas officials. The announcement marks the second major defense investment tied to her visits to the international aerospace event.
In 2023, Sanders’ trip helped secure a $33 million missile factory in Camden through a joint venture between Raytheon Technologies and Israeli defense firm Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. The L3Harris facility is far larger in scope and scale.
A Massive Expansion in Camden
L3Harris said it will construct more than 20 buildings across a 110-acre site, adding over 130,000 square feet of manufacturing space to its existing 2,000-acre property. The project is expected to increase production capacity sixfold.
Construction is scheduled to begin later this year, with operations expected to launch in 2027. The expansion is part of the company’s modernization efforts following its acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne. It also supports the U.S. government’s efforts to strengthen its homeland missile defense system, known as Golden Dome, according to Reuters.
Leaders Welcome the Investment
Governor Sanders welcomed the investment, highlighting Arkansas’ growing role in the defense sector and its importance to national security.
After meeting with the incredible L3 Harris team at the Paris Air Show last month, we are thrilled they are choosing Arkansas for this expansion.
— Sarah Huckabee Sanders (@SarahHuckabee) July 18, 2025
Arkansas is proud to help build the arsenal of democracy and protect our country and our allies! https://t.co/pNjzvxDGRw
U.S. Representative Bruce Westerman, who represents the Camden area, also praised the project. He called it a major step forward for the region, one that will strengthen Arkansas’ defense manufacturing base, provide quality jobs, and keep the United States at the forefront of aerospace and defense innovation.
Arkansas’ Growing Defense Footprint
Arkansas is already home to several major defense and aerospace companies. Lockheed Martin operates significant facilities in the state, while Dassault Falcon Jet runs a large plant in central Arkansas. Other industry leaders such as General Dynamics and Raytheon Technologies also maintain strong operations.
The addition of L3Harris further solidifies Arkansas’ reputation as an emerging hub for defense and aerospace manufacturing, ensuring continued growth in a sector central to both the state’s economy and the nation’s security.
