SHANNON — An atomic and defense contractor is again expanding in Mississippi, with plans to spend $20 million and add 48 jobs over three years.
General Atomics announced Wednesday that it will add 128,000 square feet to its existing building to make and assemble lasers for government and commercial customers.
San Diego-based General Atomics says it needs to expand because its product line is diversifying.
Mississippi Development Authority spokeswoman Tammy Craft says General Atomics will get a $510,000 state grant to help pay for equipment costs. Lee County is expected to grant property tax breaks worth about $1.1 million over 10 years.
General Atomics currently has 256 workers in Shannon who, executives say, make $50,000 a year, on average.
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