AeroVironment opens $12.5M defense research and manufacturing facility in Maryland
AeroVironment (AV) has opened a defense research and manufacturing facility in Germantown, Maryland. The company, which develops autonomous systems, cyber and electronic technologies, space-based platforms, and energy systems, invested $12.5 million in the project and expects to create more than 200 new high-tech jobs.
The 57,000-square-foot facility adds to AV’s presence in Maryland, bringing the company’s total statewide footprint to more than 176,000 square feet. The Germantown site will house advanced engineering labs, production spaces, and collaborative environments that will accelerate mission-critical technologies, including the PANTHER phased array antenna for hypersonic tracking, the Argus perimeter security system, and various AI-powered solutions.
AV’s expansion in Maryland is supported by a $1 million conditional loan from the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Advantage Maryland program, a $50,000 grant from the Partnership for Workforce Quality program, and a $100,000 conditional grant from Montgomery County’s Economic Development Fund.
What people are saying
In a recent quote, Deane Edelman, Vice President, Real Estate and Facility Operations, AV, said, “We are thrilled to celebrate this grand opening alongside so many esteemed partners and stakeholders who helped make this expansion happen, most notably our dedicated team of engineers and innovators whose ingenuity supports not only AV’s growth but our nation’s security. This facility is more than a building—it is a hub for innovation, collaboration, and mission-driven work that will shape the future of defense technology.”
Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland, added, “AV’s reinvestment in Maryland strengthens our state’s position as a global hub for aerospace and defense. By expanding its footprint in Germantown, AV continues to drive innovation in cyber, aviation, and emerging tech — creating high-skilled jobs and keeping Maryland at the forefront of cutting-edge research and discovery.”
Manufacturers investing in Maryland
PwrQ expands power systems manufacturing facility in Maryland, creating 160 new jobs
"We are proud to support PwrQ as they write this next chapter, which will bring new jobs and new opportunities to Maryland."
AstraZeneca to open new $300 million manufacturing facility in Maryland
The plant will focus on the manufacturing of CAR-T cell therapies to enable cancer clinical trials.
Rocket Lab to open Space Structures Complex in Maryland
The launch and space systems company will use the new facility to develop and manufacture products for the space industry.
Investing in American manufacturing in 2025
This map shows where manufacturers are choosing to invest their resources, whether they are building new production facilities or expanding existing plants.
