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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Keel Expands Charleston County, South Carolina, Operations

10/20/2025
Defense manufacturer Keel plans to expand its operations in Charleston County, South Carolina. The $67 million project is expected to create 170 jobs.

The investment will include the construction of a new prep and paint facility, at the company’s Yonges Island shipyard, to support the manufacture of components and modules for submarines and aircraft carriers for the U.S. Navy.

“Keel’s expansion at Yonges Island emphasizes our commitment to supporting the U.S. Navy, our national defense and Charleston County. The expansion will enable Keel to add much-needed capacity and better help our U.S. Navy meet its stringent shipbuilding requirements. We are proud of the crucial work we do to help build America’s defense and will continue to identify ways we can expand our capabilities to best support our valued warfighters and global security,” said Keel Chief Executive Officer Brian Carter.

To support the project the Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.

“The defense industry is an integral part of South Carolina’s economy, and we are proud to be home to companies like Keel that support the U.S. military. This expansion in Charleston County is a strong testament to our state’s pro-business climate, as well as our commitment to the success of our companies from launch to legacy,” noted Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III.

Keel is an advanced manufacturer of submarine modules and components, aircraft carrier components, and other complex structures for the U.S. Navy and broader defense industry.

“Keel's expansion of its advanced manufacturing operations is a major win for our community,” added Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Merle Johnson. “We are proud to support Keel as they move forward with this crucial work for the U.S. Navy and the broader defense industry.”

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