GE Aviation will locate a $40 million coatings facility for military jet engines in Alabama, employing up to 400 people at full capacity. GE has not yet selected a city for the plant, but will decide in the coming 90 days.

"We are deeply gratified by the tremendous support received from Governor Bob Riley and his whole team at the ADO [Alabama Development Office]," said David Joyce, president and CEO of GE Aviation. "The F136 engine is a very long-term program, with production anticipated for decades. We are thrilled to make Alabama part of our advanced technology network, and to commit to high-technology jobs for the state."

The facility is expected to measure about 200,000 square feet, and will open between 2011 and 2012 to support production of the F136 model, which will begin to be built in 2013. It will also enhance components for its Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) F-35 program.

GE already has 1,600 employees in Alabama at its Enterprises Solutions facility in Huntsville and an appliances plant in Decatur.