Rolls-Royce to invest in Indianapolis facilities

 

Indianapolis, Indiana – Rolls-Royce will invest nearly $600 million to modernize its manufacturing operations in Indianapolis and to conduct technology research, ensuring that Indiana remains a leader in the aerospace industry for decades to come.

 

The modernization plan will enable the company to become more competitive by replacing outdated facilities and accelerating the introduction of new and advanced manufacturing methods. The investment was made possible by the State of Indiana, the City of Indianapolis, and the United Auto Workers (UAW) union. Rolls-Royce produces engines for military and commercial aircraft, as well as marine propulsion systems.

 

This investment – the largest by Rolls-Royce in the United States since the company bought the former Allison Engine Company in 1995 – will include a major renovation of the existing facilities at Tibbs Avenue and Raymond Street. Upgrades will include new manufacturing and assembly operations that will match the advanced standards already present in many other Rolls-Royce facilities in Indiana and around the world. The five-year modernization plan, which is in-line with the Group’s ongoing investment plans, will also consolidate operations and significantly reduce utility costs.

 

“Our new facility will be a state-of-the-art manufacturing center that combines modern production systems and machinery with a highly skilled workforce. This investment ensures that we can increase our competitiveness in the market, which will benefit both our customers and Rolls-Royce,” said Marion Blakey, president and CEO, Rolls-Royce North America.

 

“We want to express our sincere appreciation to the State of Indiana, the City of Indianapolis, the UAW, and our employees for helping us make this investment in our future possible,” said Phil Burkholder, president of Rolls-Royce Defense Aerospace, North America.

 

As part of the agreement to make the investment, Rolls-Royce will receive approximately $35 million in state and city incentives. Renovation of the existing buildings will begin immediately. 

 

Rolls-Royce presently employs 4,000 people in Indianapolis, with 1,050 working in production and nearly 1,400 engineers. Engines designed, assembled and tested at Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis power the F-35B Lightning II, C-130J Super Hercules, V-22 Osprey, Global Hawk and Triton UAVs, and various commercial helicopters. Rolls-Royce also operates an advanced aerospace technology research and design unit in Indianapolis, which is known as LibertyWorks.

 

Source: Rolls-Royce North America