Collins Aerospace launches major expansion at Spokane facility to ramp up carbon brake production

Collins Aerospace, a prominent business unit of Raytheon Technologies Corporation (NYSE: RTX), has officially commenced a major expansion project at its Spokane, Washington, carbon brake production facility. This significant development is set to enhance the company’s manufacturing capabilities and support its growing client base in the aerospace and defense sectors.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on [date], was attended by a host of dignitaries, including local government officials, community leaders, and industry partners, alongside senior executives from Collins Aerospace. This expansion will add a substantial 70,000 square feet to the current manufacturing space, effectively increasing the facility’s footprint by 50 percent. The expanded space is expected to elevate the production capacity of carbon brakes, a critical component in modern aerospace systems.

The decision to expand the Spokane facility is a strategic move aimed at addressing the increasing demand from both commercial aviation and military sectors. As airlines and defense organizations seek more advanced and reliable braking systems, Collins Aerospace is positioning itself to meet these needs with enhanced production capabilities. The facility will play a crucial role in producing advanced carbon brakes utilizing DURACARB® carbon disk technology, which is renowned for its durability and performance in extreme conditions.

In addition to expanding its physical space, Collins Aerospace is committed to boosting local employment. The expansion is projected to create approximately 80 new jobs, reflecting the company’s dedication to contributing to the local economy and meeting industry demands. This move aligns with the broader trend of aerospace companies investing in their manufacturing infrastructure to support growing global markets.

Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck lauded the expansion, highlighting its significance to the state’s aerospace sector: “Collins Aerospace is an integral part of Washington state’s aerospace supply chain. This expansion not only adds high-quality jobs but also reinforces our state’s leadership in advanced manufacturing and aerospace technologies. We are thrilled to see this growth in Spokane.”

Matt Maurer, Vice President and General Manager for Landing Systems at Collins Aerospace, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “Today’s milestone is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our industry partners, customers, community leaders, and dedicated employees. This expansion signifies our commitment to advancing technological innovation and supporting the local Spokane economy. It represents the latest advancement in the Pacific Northwest’s technical innovation and manufacturing capabilities.”

The Spokane facility is one of three key carbon brake production sites operated by Collins Aerospace, each specializing in high-performance braking systems equipped with DURACARB® technology. This expansion will significantly enhance the facility’s ability to produce these advanced systems, meeting the increasing demands of the aerospace sector.

Collins Aerospace, a division of Raytheon Technologies, stands as a global leader in integrated and intelligent solutions for the aerospace and defense industries. With a workforce of approximately 80,000 employees worldwide, Collins Aerospace is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of aviation technology. The company focuses on advancing sustainable and connected aviation, ensuring passenger safety and comfort, supporting mission success, and driving innovations in space exploration.

Raytheon Technologies Corporation, headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, is a major player in the global technology and defense sectors. With more than 185,000 employees globally, Raytheon Technologies is at the forefront of technological and scientific advancements. Through its industry-leading businesses—Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon—the company is redefining aviation, engineering integrated defense systems, and developing next-generation technology solutions. In 2023, Raytheon Technologies reported sales of $69 billion.

The Spokane expansion project reflects a broader trend in the aerospace industry where companies are investing heavily in their manufacturing capabilities to keep pace with evolving market demands. The increased production capacity at Collins Aerospace’s Spokane facility will not only support current customer requirements but also prepare the company for future growth opportunities.

Local officials anticipate that the expansion will have a positive ripple effect on the regional economy, contributing to increased business activity and further job creation. The addition of new jobs and the enhanced manufacturing capabilities will position Spokane as a key hub for aerospace innovation and production.