EW, avionics, smallsats, partnerships to be focus of Harris Corp.'s investments in Florida
NewsDecember 11, 2018
MELBOURNE, Fla. Harris Corporation plans to invest more than $125 million in internal research and development (R&D) in its central Florida locations this fiscal year, say company officials, with the R&D activities primarily focusing on areas including electronic warfare (EW), robotics, avionics, and smallsats.
The internal R&D will support the company’s employed base of nearly 7,000 in Florida, including over 3,300 engineers and scientists, and will call for adding new positions. The investment will also boost the Harris partnership with companies and universities throughout the state: Harris spends more than $200 million annually with Florida-based suppliers; additionally, the company partners with multiple Florida colleges and universities, including the University of Florida, University of Central Florida, University of South Florida, and Florida Institute of Technology. The company recently announced plans to merge with L3 Technologies, with the combined company, L3 Harris Technologies, to be headquartered in Melbourne, Florida.
“Our industry-leading R&D investment is good for our stakeholders and the state – advancing the company’s technical capabilities and bringing high-quality jobs to the area,” said William M. Brown, chairman, president and CEO. “We strive to advance technology initiatives at all levels by supporting emerging technology today and the workforce of tomorrow.”
