WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WTHR) — Global defense and security company Saab has announced plans to bring a new plant to Purdue's campus, creating up to 300 new jobs.
The facility — a $37 million investment — will be at Discovery Park District Aerospace on the west side of campus. Hiring will begin in 2020.
Workers will focus on aeronautical engineering, helping to produce the U.S. Air Force's next-generation T-X jet trainer.
The jet will help train future Air Force pilots. It will be 90 percent made in America, and it's expected to be fully operational in 2034.
"Saab's decision to fuel its United States growth in West Lafayette is a testament to the state’s pro-growth business climate, strong aviation and defense sectors, and commitment to fostering innovation by collaborating with our renowned universities and businesses to solve 21st century challenges," Gov. Eric Holcomb said.
Saab President and CEO Håkan Buskhe pointed out the state of Indiana and Purdue's "visionary leadership" as one of the reasons for choosing West Lafayette as the new location for the plant.
Construction will start in 2020. Saab will hire assembly operators and airplane operators, along with positions in logistics, manufacturing engineering, administration and management.