Richmond, VA, November 12, 2025: Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced that Elbit Systems of America will invest $30 million to expand its night vision manufacturing facility in Roanoke County, Virginia. The project will create 288 new jobs and increase the company’s total local workforce to more than 1,000 employees.
Major Expansion Strengthens Defense Manufacturing in Virginia
The expansion focuses on increasing production of advanced low-light night vision devices used by the U.S. defense sector. Governor Youngkin emphasized that the project reinforces both national security and Virginia’s role in supporting America’s armed forces.
“Elbit America’s continued growth in Roanoke County strengthens America’s defense capabilities and supports our brave service members at home and abroad,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “This expansion will create nearly 300 new jobs and increase production of the high-quality night vision systems our military relies on every day. With Virginia’s strategic location, business-friendly environment, and robust veteran workforce, Elbit America is poised for continued success and growth in the Commonwealth.”
Support from State Leadership and Economic Partners
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura highlighted the project as an example of Virginia’s commitment to working closely with industry leaders. “Elbit America’s massive investment in Roanoke County shows that Virginia workers are committed to supporting America’s armed services from the factory to the front lines,” he said.
Elbit America President and CEO Luke Savoie expressed appreciation for Virginia’s partnership, adding, “We’re proud to offer our nation’s warfighters the overmatch capability that comes with superior night vision systems. Our customers depend on our ability to reliably produce image intensification tubes and night vision systems that are intuitive, lightweight, and packed with utility for any mission. With our expansion in Roanoke County, we’re demonstrating our commitment to innovating now and in the future.”
Local Officials Applaud Investment and Job Growth
Roanoke County leaders welcomed the expansion as a sign of confidence in the region’s economy. David Radford, Chair of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors, said, “This $30 million investment and the creation of new jobs demonstrate Elbit America’s confidence in our community and our shared commitment to fostering economic growth and opportunity across the county.”
Vice Chair Phil North, representing the Hollins District, added that the project aligns with ongoing local revitalization efforts. “This project adds momentum to the revitalization of the Plantation Road corridor and shows how strong partnerships between business and local government can create lasting benefits for our community,” he said.
Strengthening Virginia’s Defense and Innovation Legacy
John Hull, Executive Director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership, said Elbit America’s decision builds upon the area’s long-standing support for the defense industry. “This expansion builds on that legacy, bringing new jobs, investment, and opportunity to our community,” he said.
Delegate Joseph McNamara also welcomed the announcement, noting that Elbit America and its predecessors have consistently provided high-quality jobs while contributing to the security of the United States and its allies.
Economic Incentives and State Support
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), in coordination with the Roanoke Regional Partnership and Roanoke County, helped secure the project for the state. Governor Youngkin approved a $1.2 million grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to support the expansion, along with a $300,000 Virginia Investment Performance Grant, which rewards continued capital investment by existing Virginia companies.
Additionally, Elbit America’s job creation efforts will receive assistance from the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which offers consultative services and funding to support employee recruitment and training. The program aims to reduce human resource costs for expanding companies while advancing employment opportunities for Virginians.
About Elbit Systems of America
Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, Elbit America is a major provider of defense, homeland security, law enforcement, commercial aviation, and medical instrumentation technologies. The company operates multiple facilities across the United States and remains focused on delivering advanced systems and support services that contribute to national safety and security.