Top-tier global aerospace, defence, information, and services company, Exelis, has announced plans to establish its Asia Pacific regional headquarters in Melbourne, Australia. Working closely with the Victorian Coalition Government, Exelis will be building out a state-of-the-art research and development (R&D), testing and systems integration facility to support both local and export opportunities. The new facility is expected to create more than 60 new jobs in Australia, with plans for future growth already under way.

With this new facility, Exelis will expand its systems integration capabilities and will continue to support growing its local workforce. The new regional presence in Australia will ensure greater in-market resources to better meet evolving defence and security needs and provide in-country sustainment support. Additionally, it will further the company’s continued research and development of emerging  solutions in the areas of critical networks, ISR & analytics and electronic warfare for the global aerospace, defence, and resource industries.

Exelis previously established a presence in Melbourne through the acquisition of C4i Pty. Ltd. in January 2013. From its new facility, this Exelis workforce will continue to support business pursuits globally with system deployments in over 30 countries.

“The decision to establish our Asia Pacific headquarters in Melbourne was heavily influenced by the region’s robust engineering talent, growing market opportunities and the unwavering support from the Victorian Government,” said Exelis CEO and President David Melcher. “Paired with our more than 40 years of history serving the Australian market, this expansion represents our company’s continued commitment to growing our presence in the Asia Pacific region and our focus on international expansion.”

Minster for Manufacturing of the Victorian Government David Hodgett said, “Exelis’ decision to establish its headquarters here is yet another example of Victoria’s attractiveness as a destination of choice for North American companies seeking an Australian base to grow their businesses in the Asia Pacific region.”