Rolls-Royce invests US$11mn supporting US Navy programmes

Investing in high-tech manufacturing

Rolls-Royce - a pioneer in cutting-edge aviation technologies - has completed its investment of US$11mn into its flagship Naval Defense campus, opening a new high-tech manufacturing, repair, and testing facility. 

By investing in the 25,000 square feet facility, Rolls-Royce will enhance and modernise its naval operations in Walpole. The company has added waterjet maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) servicing to its portfolio.

“We’re excited to add this new capability so we can better serve our U.S. Navy customers. Our Walpole team has proudly equipped the Navy for more than 50 years and this investment ensures that we can continue to meet their growing needs for decades to come,” said Dan Rediger, Rolls-Royce Head of Naval Operations – Defense.

The US Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) programme

Experiencing increasing demand for spare equipment and MRO services associated with scheduled maintenance, as the U.S. Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) programme continues, the new facility will give Rolls-Royce the capability and capacity to perform MRO work for the waterjets the Freedom class variant of the LCS is equipped with.

Being a global leader in propulsion equipment, Rolls-Royce’s equipment is incorporated into over 95% of the US Navy Surface Warfare fleet. The company is the sole supplier of shock-rated propeller systems offering robust and reliable systems. 

“We are proud to provide the power to protect in support of our United States Department of Defense customers. This investment is a clear signal that we remain committed to meeting their needs both today and well into the future with world-class, American-made products and services,” said Tom Bell, President, Rolls-Royce Defense and Chairman & CEO Rolls-Royce North America.

With this investment Rolls-Royce hopes to bring a positive impact to the region, bringing high-tech, business to the economy and new manufacturing jobs.  

“I want to congratulate Rolls-Royce for expanding their footprint in Massachusetts, which promises to increase regional access to employment opportunities in high-tech manufacturing. The Commonwealth has made great strides in building a talented workforce and fostering innovation, and this facility ensures Rolls-Royce will continue to play an important role in our ecosystem well into the future,”concluded Mike Kennealy, Massachusetts Housing and Economic Development Secretary.