'We're expanding' - Major BAE Systems announcement as company buys massive new manufacturing facility

BAE Systems has announced the purchase of a huge new manufacturing facility in the United States, in a move set to expand its production capabilities and create hundreds of jobs.

The defence and aerospace company, which operates two major centres at Warton on the Fylde coast and at Samlesbury in Lancashire, has completed the purchase of a new 130,000 sq ft production facility in Weld County, Colorado.

The two Lancashire sites are closely connected, with many BAE Systems employees on the Fylde coast working across both locations.

“We look forward to expanding our production capabilities in Colorado with our first facility in Weld County,” said Alexis Wang, vice president of operations for BAE Systems. “The support we received from the Weld County Commissioners and the State of Colorado played a key role in our ability to locate this essential production work for the company in Colorado, extending our manufacturing presence in the state.”

The new facility, set on approximately 13 acres, will increase BAE Systems’ manufacturing capacity to meet customer demand and support business growth in the production of space-based hardware and sensor systems.

BAE Systems expects to recruit more than 200 employees to support production at the Colorado site over the next 12 to 24 months. Once operating at full capacity, the facility could employ approximately 600 people.

“Weld County is excited to welcome and partner with BAE Systems as they establish a new production facility in Northern Colorado,” said Scott James, Chair of the Weld County Board of Commissioners.

“Projects of this scale are transformational, not only because of the capital investment and high-quality employment they bring, but because they strengthen the entire industry ecosystem and create new opportunities for businesses, workers, and families across the region. This industry provides skilled high-paying jobs for both factory workers and engineers, and this represents a strong opportunity for economic growth and diversification.”

The company plans to begin retrofitting the building and procuring equipment throughout the remainder of this year, with production expected to begin in early 2028. The purchase will also strengthen BAE Systems’ existing presence in Colorado, adding to its nearby production facilities in Boulder, Broomfield and Westminster.

“Colorado continues to lead the nation in aerospace and advanced manufacturing, and we are thrilled to welcome BAE Systems’ expansion in Weld County,” said Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. “This investment will bring hundreds of good-paying jobs to Weld County and further solidify our state as a hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation.”

The expansion marks a significant investment in the company’s advanced manufacturing capabilities as it prepares to meet growing demand for space-based hardware and sensor systems.