Stark Aerospace expanding operations, creating 96 jobs in Columbus to support U.S. Navy contract – SuperTalk Mississippi

After receiving a hefty contract from the U.S. Navy, global aerospace and defense company Stark Aerospace plans to expand its operations in the Mississippi Golden Triangle.

The Mississippi Development Authority announced that the company will add 96 new jobs at its Columbus facility courtesy of the $61.454 million contract it reached with the Naval Sea Systems Command in late October. The Navy is looking to Stark to lead the way in missile canister production in support of the Mark 41 Vertical Launching System — an onboard missile canister launching system.

“Stark Aerospace’s latest contract with the U.S. Navy is yet another major investment in our defense sector and another impressive economic development success for Lowndes County,” Gov. Tate Reeves said. “The creation of 96 new jobs speaks volumes about the quality of the workforce found in Mississippi, which manufactures some of the most technologically sophisticated defense systems in the world. I congratulate the Stark Aerospace team on this remarkable win and look forward to the company’s ongoing success in Columbus.”

The contract includes additional options that, if exercised, can increase the contract’s cumulative value to $312.8 million. Per a release, the Mississippi Development Authority has pledged to aid with infrastructure improvements. The state agency also is assisting the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive program.

According to officials, construction is slated to be complete within the next year with new jobs being filled immediately.

“We are honored and excited to have been selected for this important project,” Stark Aerospace, Inc. President and CEO David Alabed said. “This contract not only reflects our team’s hard work and dedication but also underscores our capability to deliver high-quality products that meet the rigorous standards of our U.S. Military and the Warfighters. We look forward to working closely with the U.S. Navy and contributing to the success of this vital initiative.”