Raytheon opens new missile factory

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HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Nov. 27 (UPI) -- A factory for the final assembly and testing of Standard Missile-3s and SM-6 interceptors has been opened in Alabama by Raytheon.

The new facility is 70,000 square feet and is at the U.S. Army's Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala. Among its features: special laser-guided, battery-powered transport vehicles for moving missiles in the factory.

"This factory is the most advanced missile integration facility in the world, enabling Raytheon to provide our domestic and international customers with the most effective, reliable and affordable products possible," said Taylor W. Lawrence, Raytheon Missile Systems president. "The missiles assembled in this factory will play a critical role in protecting our homeland and defending our allies around the globe."

"This missile integration facility will create new jobs for Alabama's workers to help bolster our nation's defense," said U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., at a ribbon-cutting ceremony. "The facility will further enhance Huntsville's indispensable role in our nation's security and the region's economy."