What's Happening?
Skyeton Inc., a global drone manufacturer, is set to open its first flagship U.S. production facility in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The Las Vegas-based subsidiary of Ukrainian-born Skyeton Holdings will invest over $3.1 million in the project, creating
162 jobs. The facility will focus on designing, engineering, manufacturing, testing, distributing, and supporting unmanned aerial systems for defense and commercial use. The expansion places Skyeton near Fort Bragg, the largest U.S. military installation by population, enhancing the region's defense technology industry. Governor Josh Stein highlighted North Carolina's military tradition and advanced manufacturing base as key factors in attracting Skyeton. The company's Raybird platform, a long-endurance unmanned aircraft, has logged significant combat flight hours in Ukraine and will be a central product at the new facility.
Why It's Important?
The establishment of Skyeton's facility in Fayetteville is significant for several reasons. It strengthens the U.S. defense industrial base by bringing advanced drone manufacturing capabilities closer to military customers. The project is expected to generate an annual payroll of approximately $11.5 million, with jobs offering an average salary significantly above the local average. This development aligns with North Carolina's strategy to attract aerospace and defense companies, leveraging its military population and transitioning service members. The investment also underscores the state's commitment to fostering economic growth through high-quality job creation and private investment, supported by a $500,000 performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund.
What's Next?
Skyeton's facility is expected to enhance the company's domestic manufacturing presence and support its mission to deliver combat-proven capabilities to U.S. warfighters. The project will likely attract further defense and manufacturing investments to the region, bolstered by North Carolina's robust workforce and educational institutions. The state will continue to market its strategic advantages to recruit similar companies, potentially leading to more job creation and economic development. Local and state officials, along with military partners, will play a crucial role in supporting Skyeton's integration into the community and ensuring the project's success.
