Raytheon opens new missile defense center

Center features a robust IT network, a conference center and an advanced modeling and simulation facility.

Raytheon Co. yesterday opened a new missile defense center for the design and development of key components of ballistic missile defense systems for the Army and the Missile Defense Agency.

The Woburn, Mass., center features a robust information technology network, a modern conference center and an advanced modeling and simulation facility. It will house 1,100 engineers and administrative personnel.

Steve Brecken, manager of media relations at Raytheon's integrated defense systems unit, would not disclose the center's cost.

The center is part of the company's integrated defense systems business unit, based in Tewksbury, Mass., which provides integrated solutions for air, surface and subsurface battlespace.

Headquartered in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon Co. employs 78,000 people worldwide and had 2003 revenue of $18.1 billion. The company is No. 7 on Washington Technology's 2004 Top 100 list of federal prime contractors.