Defense manufacturer SAPA Transmission Inc. plans to build a 200,000-square-foot, two-story manufacturing facility near Detroit. The Michigan-based company expects the project to help scale its advanced machining operations, supporting ground combat vehicle programs and Army modernization efforts.
Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) stated that the $163 million development will create at least 328 jobs.
“We have expanded our advanced manufacturing capabilities, strengthened our Michigan-based supply chain and invested in the workforce and technologies needed to support our nation’s defense,” SAPA Transmission President Darren Werner said.
SAPA’s expansion in Southeast Michigan looks to strengthen domestic manufacturing of high-performance combat transmissions and boost the region’s position as a hub for ground combat vehicle development and production. Other states the company considered for the expansion included Ohio, Alabama, Pennsylvania and Texas.
The Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board approved a $5 million Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP) performance-based grant for the project, as well as a 15-year, 50% State Essential Services Assessment (SESA) Exemption with an estimated value of up to $1,423,110 for its $130.2 million eligible investment in Eligible Personal Property.
