On 6 December Thales announced that it has opened a second manufacturing facility in the US to support its growing military communications operations. Located in Germantown, MA, this new facility is in close proximity to the company's Clarksburg headquarters, which includes a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant that was opened in 2001, a business development and conference center, and a software development center. Additional engineering offices are located in Fort Wayne, IN.
The opening of the second plant is in response to the fact that Thales' communications activities have experienced dramatic growth in the past six years. With escalating customer requirements for its tactical radio systems and the rapid expansion of its naval and maritime business, the additional manufacturing capabilities will enable the company to broaden its product offerings, achieve even greater production efficiencies, provide more responsive and comprehensive customer support, and, in general, strengthen its ability to meet customer requirements.
"The communications solutions that we develop and manufacture in our Maryland facilities are directly supporting US armed forces, coalition and allied forces in their missions around the world," said Mitch Herbets, president and CEO. "We take that role very seriously, and this expansion will help us respond to their needs ... now."