Jobs, jobs and more jobs. That's what's promised with a $10 million investment by General Dynamics Land Systems, which makes armored vehicles for the U.S. military.
The Sterling Heights-based company plans to expand its operations in both Sterling Heights and Shelby Township, creating 500 jobs and 649 spin-off jobs over the next 12 years.
Michigan beat out competing states like Virginia and Florida and even the Canadian province of Ontario for the project. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation and local municipalities approved $44 million in tax breaks and incentives to make the deal happen.
"This project will result in the immediate creation of new jobs and laboratory facilities and the possibility exists for continued growth," says David K. Heebner, president of General Dynamics Land Systems. "After comparing Michigan's state tax credits both nationally and internationally, it made the most business sense for General Dynamics to continue our commitment in Michigan."
General Dynamics Land Systems formed in 1982 when Falls Church, Va.-based parent General Dynamics Corp. acquired Chrysler Corp.'s defense operations. General Dynamics Land Systems has 8,000 employees in 12 states. General Dynamics employs 83,500 worldwide and reported 2007 revenues of $27.2 billion. It is a leader in production of land and amphibious combat systems, mission-critical information systems and technologies, shipbuilding and marine systems and business aviation.
Source: Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Writer: Jon Zemke
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