Northrop Grumman is expanding its manufacturing operations in Cecil County, Maryland. The defense and aerospace company company plans to add 175 news jobs over the next five years. The current Elkton-based operation 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 at 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 manufactures 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 Elkton plant had its first rocket engine test-fire more than 70 years ago,” said County Executive Alan McCarthy. “Cecil County has long benefitted 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.”
A package of state incentives will support the expansion.
The Maryland Department of Commerce has approved a $800,000 conditional loan and is providing a $200,000 training grant through Partnership for Workforce Quality (PWQ) program. 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.
“It is a great win for Maryland and Cecil County that Northrop Grumman is continuing to grow their operations here,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Our administration has been focused on growing manufacturing in Maryland and this expansion and others like it is further proof that programs like More Jobs for Marylanders are really making a difference in strengthening our economy.”
