Saab and Michigan Officials Celebrate Future Munitions Facility
Last week, leaders from Saab and Michigan came together to celebrate the announcement that Saab intends to build a new, world-class advanced munitions manufacturing facility in Grayling, MI. The event, held at the War Memorial in Detroit, highlighted the facility's potential to bring a positive, lasting impact to the local community, as well as its role in bolstering U.S. defense capabilities.
Saab’s announcement comes amid growing global security challenges. With this new facility, Saab will deliver on our promise to increase and modernize domestic munitions production, working to ensure the U.S. military is equipped with the latest technologies.
The event also was an opportunity for local military, state and private sector representatives to meet with Saab leadership to hear about plans for the facility and local community, as well as discuss potential partnership opportunities.
Attendees included Saab's President and CEO Micael Johansson, Saab, Inc. President and CEO Erik Smith, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Speaker of the Michigan House Joe Tate, and Adjutant General of the Michigan National Guard, Major General Paul D. Rogers, among others.
During the event, Governor Whitmer emphasized the potential benefits of the facility for both the local economy and Michigan’s defense industry.
“Saab’s investment in Michigan could have a direct, positive impact on the local community. It could create good-paying, high-skill jobs, from manufacturing and assembly to engineering, testing, and operations,” said Governor Whitmer. “This is an exciting moment for Michigan, for Grayling, and for our national defense capabilities.”
Once open, the Grayling facility will be Saab’s 10th in the U.S. and will focus on the final assembly and integration of shoulder-fired munitions and precision fire systems. Saab plans to recruit from the surrounding community and will support 70+ new jobs, ranging from management to skilled works, especially assemblers. Production is expected to begin in early 2026.
“Like Saab, Michiganders value community, hard work, taking care of the environment, and supporting our armed forces,” said President and CEO of Saab, Inc. Erik Smith. “This is an exciting moment as we celebrate our plans to join the Grayling community and build our new domestic munitions facility there. Our focus now is on ensuring we meet all local requirements and continue working with community members throughout this process.”
Learn more about Saab’s path to Grayling here.