BAE Systems has announced a significant expansion of its Endicott campus, officially opening a new 150,000-square-foot facility in early May. This modern space will focus on developing energy storage systems for aircraft, as noted by Scott Hatch, Director of Airborne Power Systems. He highlighted that this facility will enable BAE to tap into the potential of hybrid and all-electric aircraft markets.
BAE Systems has already established itself as a leader in battery-powered vehicles, having deployed more than 18,000 electric buses globally. This year, the company achieved a milestone by securing the largest order for battery-electric buses in North America.
### BAE Systems Launches New Facility
The new facility, located at 5 Oak Hill Ave., boasts an advanced engineering lab and state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities. Hatch explained that this space will allow for comprehensive battery system design and power electronics, as well as dedicated areas for battery system manufacturing.
With this expansion, BAE has also increased its office space, consolidating its airborne power systems team for better efficiency and teamwork.
Although BAE has been involved in the aviation sector for years, Hatch noted that the trend towards electrifying aircraft is relatively new. Recognizing this opportunity about five years ago, BAE’s expertise in safety-critical controls for aircraft and experience in electric buses positions the company well for entering the electric aviation market.
The facility is currently being utilized for initial development projects for various clients, with plans to create over 130 jobs as production ramps up.
Hatch emphasized the benefits of being located in the Binghamton area, citing easy access to Binghamton University and SUNY Broome Community College for staffing and training. This also connects BAE to the region’s growing battery ecosystem.
“Our lead engineers and scientists collaborate closely with local schools to enhance technologies applicable to both transit buses and airborne systems,” Hatch shared.
In recent years, Binghamton has emerged as a hub for battery manufacturing and research, designated as a federal Battery Tech Hub in 2023 and receiving ongoing support for the Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine.
While BAE sources its batteries from external suppliers, it also integrates parts from local suppliers for various components in its technologies.
