Boeing Expands Aerospace Presence
- Sangamon County News
- Feb 20, 2024
- 1 min read
Aerospace leader Boeing has expanded its Illinois operations, with a cutting-edge 300,000 square-foot facility set to conclude construction by early 2024. Nestled at MidAmerica St. Louis Airport in Mascoutah, the facility is poised to inject up to 300 advanced manufacturing roles into the Metro East region. Anticipated aircraft production commencement is slated for the start of FY '24, with Boeing funneling $200 million into the initiative.
Rep. Kevin Schmidt (R-Cahokia Heights) commended Boeing's endeavor, highlighting the substantial economic boost the influx of high-paying manufacturing jobs will provide to St. Clair County. The initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to foster growth within the state and the broader Metro East area.
Primarily tasked with the production of the MQ-25 Stingray – the Navy's pioneering carrier-based unmanned aircraft – the plant's mission centers on in-flight refueling operations, significantly extending the reach of fellow aircraft. Operating as an airborne tanker, the MQ-25 Stingray is set to redefine aerial combat dynamics.
Initial plans encompass the recruitment of 150 mechanics, engineers, and support personnel for Stingray production.