SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY : Group Zeroes In on Loral, Seeking to Keep It in the Area

Californians for Aerospace Leadership, a newly formed coalition of business, social-service and academic groups that is seeking to slow the exodus of defense contractors from Southern California, is concerned that Loral Aeronutronic in Newport Beach may move its missile plant out of the region.

Last week, the Aeronutronic division’s top executive acknowledged that the company was considering moving the plant from Newport Beach and possibly out of the county. The division has 2,500 employees, a third of whom are production workers.

Ron Cedillos, chairman of CAL and president of a small-parts testing company in Long Beach, suggested that Gov. Pete Wilson’s office should stay in touch with Loral and try to persuade company officials to keep the defense plant in Southern California.

Julie Wright, director of the state Department of Commerce, said she had spoken with Aeronutronic President James Woolnough and told him that the state is prepared to meet with him and discuss the plant’s future.

“My understanding is Loral wants to stay in California, if possible,” she said.

Cedillos also hopes that group-sponsored legislative initiatives aimed at making the state more attractive to aerospace manufacturers are passed before Aeronutronic makes a final decision.

“We should try to stem the tide and prevent companies from leaving,” Cedillos said.