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Rolls-Royce Accelerates U.S. Expansion with $75 Million Investment in South Carolina

British aerospace and defense leader Rolls-Royce has announced a significant expansion of its engine manufacturing facility in Aiken, South Carolina, with a $75 million investment aimed at ramping up production capacity and enhancing its U.S. industrial presence.

The expansion focuses on increasing output of the mtu Series 4000 diesel engines, critical components widely used in backup power systems for data centers and other essential infrastructure. This move signals Rolls-Royce’s growing pivot beyond aerospace into energy and power systems, capitalizing on the surge in demand for reliable, domestic energy solutions.

Creating Jobs and Expanding Production Capabilities

As part of the project, Rolls-Royce plans to create 60 new jobs in the region, contributing to local economic growth and addressing the rising need for skilled labor in power systems manufacturing.

Currently, many components of the mtu Series 4000 engines are produced in Germany and shipped to the U.S. as finished products. The new investment will enable Rolls-Royce to machine additional components domestically, streamlining the supply chain and boosting manufacturing efficiency on American soil.

Adam Wood, Managing Director of Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems division in America, emphasized the importance of the investment:

“This increased investment strengthens our ability to serve our U.S. customers — especially in the fast-growing American data center industry.”

Adam Riddle, CEO for North America, highlighted the strategic significance of domestic production:

“We are proud to support America’s growing demand for reliable, domestically made energy systems that strengthen our nation’s energy independence and security.”

Strategic Timing and Future Outlook

The expansion’s first phase is slated to begin in the first quarter of 2026, with production ramping up by July 2027. This development aligns with broader global shifts in energy infrastructure and supply chain localization.

The South Carolina facility is expected to become a cornerstone of Rolls-Royce’s North American power systems strategy, supporting the company’s ambitions to grow its presence in the energy sector alongside its traditional aerospace and defense operations.

Broader Company Moves: Nuclear Energy Collaboration

Rolls-Royce’s announcement follows a recent development on the nuclear energy front. On Monday, the UK and Czech Republic unveiled a partnership to cooperate on small modular reactors (SMRs), with Rolls-Royce potentially exporting up to six SMRs to the Czech Republic. This deal underlines the company’s expanding footprint in innovative energy technologies.

Final Thoughts

Rolls-Royce’s $75 million investment in South Carolina underscores the company’s commitment to diversifying its product portfolio, supporting U.S. infrastructure needs, and bolstering energy independence. By strengthening domestic manufacturing and creating new jobs, Rolls-Royce is positioning itself as a critical player in the future of American power systems.

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