Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC) announced it is making additional new investments in its Melbourne-based Manned Aircraft Design Centre of Excellence.

Initial plans call for a new 220,000-square-foot building and the addition of 300 employees, with the potential for additional jobs and capacity in the future. These investments are part of the company’s ongoing effort to improve its strategic alignment with its customers’ need for increasingly innovative and affordable products, services and solutions.

“We’re extremely appreciative of the support we’ve received from the state of Florida and the local community in our continuing effort to drive our affordability and competitive position,” said Tom Vice, Northrop Grumman Corporate Vice President and President, Aerospace Systems. “This expansion further cements our strong partnership with Florida, and will greatly benefit our employees, customers and shareholders.”

The facility’s continued growth, enabled by Florida’s positive business climate, will enhance competitiveness across Northrop Grumman’s operations and support the company’s focus on creating innovative and affordable products for its customers.