Northrop Grumman, a global security company that designs, builds, and delivers space, defense, and aviation-related systems, is expanding its manufacturing operations in Cecil County and plans to add 175 new jobs over the next five years. This operating sector of the company, which was known as Orbital ATK before it was purchased by Northrop Grumman Corp. last year, currently operates in Elkton where it employs 400 workers.
“Our team in Elkton has delivered rocket motors for space launch and military applications for 70 years,” said Mike Kahn, vice president and general manager, Northrop Grumman. “We are extremely pleased that the state of Maryland will be supporting investments in both infrastructure and in our workforce. Our continued partnership with both the state and county will ensure that the Elkton operation will continue to provide innovative technology to NASA and the Department of Defense for many years to come.”
Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems’ main products include launch vehicles and related propulsion systems; missile products, subsystems and defense electronics; precision weapons, armament systems and ammunition; satellites and associated space components and services; and advanced aerospace structures.
Northrop Grumman’s capabilities and products span innovative technologies in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, space, strike, and logistics and modernization.
To assist with project costs, the Maryland Department of Commerce has approved an $800,000 conditional loan through Advantage Maryland, formerly the Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund (MEDAAF). Maryland Commerce is also providing a $200,000 training grant through the Partnership for Workforce Quality (PWQ) program, and Cecil County is providing an $80,000 conditional loan to help the company complete the project. The company is also eligible for state tax credits including the Job Creation Tax Credit and the More Jobs for Marylanders Program, which was the centerpiece of Governor Larry Hogan’s Maryland Jobs Initiative, incentivizing manufacturers to create new jobs in the state.
“It’s clear that Maryland is open for business when companies like Northrop Grumman are creating hundreds of new jobs and continuing to expand their operations here,” said Governor Hogan. “Our administration has been focused on growing manufacturing in the state and this expansion is further proof that programs like More Jobs for Marylanders truly make a difference in creating jobs and strengthening our economy.”
“Northrop Grumman’s Elkton plant had its first rocket engine test-fire more than 70 years ago,” said County Executive Alan McCarthy. “Cecil County has long benefited from this manufacturing plant and the many jobs it provides, and we look forward to a continued strong partnership with the company to ensure their success and growth in the future.”
“Northrop Grumman is Maryland’s largest manufacturing employer and we are proud to support their continued investment in our state,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. “We look forward to working with the company as they expand their aerospace and defense technology operations here and grow their workforce.”
To learn more about opportunities at Northrop Grumman, visit northropgrumman.com.
About Maryland Commerce
The Maryland Department of Commerce stimulates private investment and creates jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing financial assistance to Maryland companies. The Department promotes the State’s many economic advantages and markets local products and services at home and abroad to spur economic development and international investment, trade and tourism. Because they are major economic generators, the Department also supports the Arts, film production, sports and other special events. For more information, visit commerce.maryland.gov.