Textron Systems is expanding its footprint in Southeast Louisiana with a $5.8 million, multi-site investment aimed at boosting production of advanced military vehicles and naval systems.
The Textron Systems Corporation project spans three existing facilities in St. Tammany and Orleans parishes and is expected to create 133 new direct jobs while retaining 761 current positions. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the expansion will generate an additional 223 indirect jobs, bringing the total potential job impact to 356 across the region.
The investment will roll out in phases, beginning in 2026 at the company’s Gause Boulevard facility in Slidell, followed by additional work at its Stone Road site. Operations will continue throughout construction.
In St. Tammany Parish alone, Textron plans to create 111 jobs with an average salary of $95,600—well above the parish average. The company will invest $5.3 million in facility upgrades at Gause Boulevard and $500,000 at Stone Road to support engineering work tied to next-generation armored vehicle programs, including ARV and XM30.
State officials say the project reinforces Louisiana’s role in defense manufacturing, supported by incentives including workforce development through LED FastStart and a $600,000 performance-based grant tied to equipment and infrastructure improvements.
Textron Systems, which has operated in the region since 1980, said the expansion will position it for long-term growth while strengthening support for U.S. and allied defense programs.
