L3Harris Completes $100M Florida Expansion Supporting DoD Golden Dome

L3Harris Technologies has completed a $100 million expansion of its satellite integration and test facility in Palm Bay, Florida, adding 94,000 square feet to support the Department of Defense's urgent need for on-orbit technology as part of President Trump's Golden Dome missile defense initiative. The facility will produce next-generation satellites designed to identify, track, and defend against hypersonic and advanced missile threats, with L3Harris currently developing 34 satellites for hypersonic missile tracking alongside five already on orbit. The Golden Dome system builds on Israel’s Iron Dome concept but employs space-based infrastructure reminiscent of the Reagan-era Strategic Defense Initiative. The expansion aims to accelerate production of proven hardware for national missile warning and defense, aligning with the President’s vision, and is expected to contribute significantly to national security and the local economy through high-skill jobs. L3Harris CEO Christopher Kubasik highlighted the company's readiness to participate in the broader $175 billion project, competing with other major defense contractors like Lockheed Martin and Boeing. Local officials and company leaders emphasized the facility's critical role in advancing U.S. missile defense capabilities and supporting the President’s strategic defense priorities.