When it comes to selling military technology, there are few closer bonds than Israel and the U.S. And they just got closer.
RADA Technologies, the fast-growing U.S. subsidiary of Israel-based RADA Electronics Industries, plans to open a new U.S. headquarters in Germantown, Md.
The company, which opened its first U.S. office as a joint venture in Silver Spring last year, produces radars and navigation systems in air and land vehicles for the aerospace and defense market, ranging from tanks to drones. The headquarters will include a research and development and manufacturing operation.
RADA's radars are mounted on tanks, tactical vehicles, planes, drones and at-sea vehicles, identifying potential threats and locating their launch points. It also makes navigation systems and avionics.
The company said it will invest $4 million to expand, as it relocates to a 25,000-square-foot facility in Montgomery County by yearend. The tech firm plans to create 50 full-time jobs in two years, with 80 new jobs by the end of 2023.
As it ramps up in the U.S., RADA will receive a $300,000 conditional loan through the Maryland Department of Commerce and a $50,000 grant from Montgomery County, in addition to job-creation tax credits.
“Given the anticipated growth of RADA Technologies, we felt that being part of Montgomery County was the best decision to enhance our presence in the United States and we are thrilled to be part of a community that houses tremendous technology and the best talent,” CEO Bill Watson said in a statement.
The company is establishing permanent digs in Greater Washington following a year of fast growth, recording $8.7 million in first quarter revenue – up 44 percent from a year ago. It expects full-year revenue upwards of $40 million (compared to last year's $28 million) as U.S. orders for tactical radar systems increase. RADA already lists Boeing and Lockheed Martin as clients.
Check out the video below for an explainer on the company's tech.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYHC21zjxNg
