PARKER - On December 3, 2024, Governor Polis and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced that Safran Defense & Space Inc., (Safran DSI), the U.S. subsidiary of global aerospace leader Safran, has selected Colorado for expansion. In Colorado, Safran will support the growth of the North American small satellite market, which is expected to reach more than $5 billion by 2030. 

“Colorado aerospace companies are at the forefront of technological innovation, and Safran will continue that legacy while creating 20 new, good-paying jobs. I’m pleased to welcome Safran to Colorado, the best place to live, work and do business,” said Governor Polis. 

In Parker, Safran will open a manufacturing facility to deliver electric propulsion thrusters and host a workshop for space telemetry ground equipment, offices and meeting rooms. The new Colorado site will also host Safran’s U.S. team for satellite communications as well as space and ground domain awareness. The company chose Colorado for its world class aerospace ecosystem, top workforce and access to the supply chain. 

“Colorado is strategically located and home to an aerospace ecosystem that will advance Safran’s long-standing commitment to investing in the U.S. and deliver our capabilities to meet the dynamic needs of the U.S. space market,” said Joe Bogosian, President and CEO of Safran Defense & Space, Inc. 

“Our enhanced production efforts will provide trust and confidence to both U.S. domestic, national programs as well as commercial programs and foster innovation in satellite technology,” said Pier M. Roviera, President of Safran DSI Space Solutions. 

Safran expects to create 20 net new jobs. The positions will include engineers, technicians, and operators. 

"By choosing Colorado, Safran joins a leading aerospace ecosystem. Over the last five years, Colorado’s aerospace industry has seen 30% growth and now employs over 240,000 workers. We are confident the Safran team will find themselves in good company as they innovate small satellite technology and help advance this key sector of our economy,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman. 

The Colorado Economic Development Commission approved up to $371,751 in a performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit for the company over an eight-year period. These incentives are contingent upon Safran, referred to as Project New Vernon throughout the OEDIT review process, meeting net new job creation and salary requirements. 

"Colorado’s leadership in aerospace innovation continues to attract world-class companies like Safran Electronics & Defense. The Metro Denver EDC’s Colorado Space Coalition was instrumental in bringing this project to fruition, showcasing the strength of our partnerships and our commitment to aerospace excellence. I would like to thank the State of Colorado for their support and congratulate our partners in the Town of Parker for this win," said Raymond H. Gonzales, President of the Metro Denver EDC. 

“We were thrilled to help launch Safran Space in Douglas County. It represents our continued commitment to the industry, fostering innovation, creating jobs, and building a legacy of excellence that will take us to new heights,” said Ellie Reynolds, President and CEO of Douglas County EDC 

“I am thrilled to welcome Safran to the Town of Parker,” said Weldy Feazell, Director of Economic Development. “Parker is committed to fostering innovation and growth in our dynamic aerospace community. Safran not only brings experienced professionals to our region, but it also opens new avenues for collaboration and development in aerospace technology. Their presence will create exciting opportunities for both residents and businesses, and I am confident they will achieve great success here in Parker.” 

In addition to Colorado, Safran considered Irvine, California, for expansion. 

About Safran Defense & Space, Inc. 

Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (Safran DSI) is a leading provider of cutting-edge solutions designed to address the evolving challenges of national defense and advanced space missions. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, Safran DSI operates through specialized business units in Optronics, Space Solutions, Testing & Telemetry, Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT). Safran DSI leverages its parent company's innovative technologies and global resources to deliver unparalleled solutions across air, land, sea, and space domains. 

About Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade 

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire-and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.