Azusa : Aerojet Wins Air Force Deal
Defense contractor Aerojet has won a $500-million contract from the U.S. Air Force that will help stave off future layoffs and create years of work for its electronics division in Azusa, company officials said this week.
The contract calls for the 1,800-employee Azusa plant on 3rd Street to develop and manufacture three sensor devices that will enable military satellites to detect and report on missile launches, space launches and nuclear detonations.
Such technology was used during Desert Storm to provide a warning of Scud missile attacks.
The sensors that Aerojet builds use infrared detectors to sense heat from missile plumes. The company has been designing, developing and improving such surveillance sensors since the late 1960s.
The new contract with the Air Force calls for the Azusa plant to produce the first sensor within 4 1/2 years, and two additional sensors during the following two years. A company spokeswoman said Aerojet will not hire new employees to complete the work, but said the contract will help the company maintain its current work force.
Aerojet is a subsidiary of GenCorp, a technology-based company specializing in aerospace, automotive and related products.
More to Read
Inside the business of entertainment
The Wide Shot brings you news, analysis and insights on everything from streaming wars to production — and what it all means for the future.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
