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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

R2S Establishes East Camden, Arkansas, Missile Operations

02/25/2024
R2S, a joint venture between Rafael Advanced Defense System and Raytheon, plans to establish manufacturing operations in East Camden, Arkansas. The approximately $63 million project is expected to create 60 jobs.

The new facility, located at Highland Industrial Park, will produce the Tamir missile for the Iron Dome Weapon System and its variant, the SkyHunter missile to be used by the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. allies.

“R2S is pleased to announce today that it’s almost doubling the capital investment for the project here in Camden, Arkansas from $33 million to $63 million, and it may create up to 60 new jobs. This increase represents the commitment by both partners to support this critical project for the USMC and to our allies around the world that depend on a reliable air defense system,” said Annabel Flores, deputy president of Land & Air Defense Systems, Raytheon." Raytheon Rafael Area Protection Systems (R2S) will produce the IRON DOME in America. Currently at 70%, it is expected that 100% will eventually be Made in the U.S. Protecting maneuvering forces as well as population centers and strategic assets, IRON DOME handles multiple threats simultaneously, operating 24/7 in all weather conditions including rain, dust storms, fog, and low clouds.

"Today, we mark a significant milestone in the Iron Dome program – one of the most important and advanced air defense systems in the world. The establishment of the new facility is the result of strong cooperation between Rafael and Raytheon, who joined forces about 18 years ago,” noted Pini Yungman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Air & Missile Defense Division, Rafael. “We have built and maintained fruitful collaboration based on the shared vision of both companies, committed to the highest level of technological innovation. The United States is a true partner; and local production, which we have aspired to for many years, will strengthen the partnership while safeguarding the interests of all sides. I am confident that we are ready for further cooperation in the future aimed at ensuring the security of the citizens of Israel and America."

“Arkansas is a major center for aerospace and defense manufacturing, with an experienced workforce and favorable business environment that helps companies succeed,” added Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “Congratulations to R2S, Raytheon and Rafael on their groundbreaking in East Camden and to the local leaders for creating the conditions that give companies the confidence to grow in their community.”

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