Hughes opens new manufacturing facility and private 5G incubation centre

Hughes Network Systems has announced the opening of a new cutting-edge manufacturing facility and private 5G incubation centre in Germantown, Maryland, underscoring the long-standing commitment of Hughes to technological advancement and fostering local talent in the region.

The Hughes Manufacturing Facility (EXM) produces US-made hardware that powers the networks on which people, enterprises, and governments everywhere depend, like the Hughes HT3000W JUPITER System satellite modem and the Hughes HL1120W Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite terminal. In addition to about 400 engineers, technicians and manufacturing staff, the Hughes EXM facility utilises advanced robotics to assist in the manufacture of high-tech products such as satellite modems and terminals. The EXM facility will also serve as a testing ground for private 5G solutions just now reaching the market for Enterprise applications as well as secure 5G networking applications critical to the US Department of Defense.

Paul Gaske, COO, Hughes, said: “Hughes has deep roots in this community. Our capabilities evolved from a long-ago startup in Rockville, Maryland, and we have grown into what is now the leading provider of broadband satellite services, products, and managed network solutions. The EXM facility allows us to continue a proud tradition of designing and manufacturing leading-edge products here in Maryland.”

Located in the Pinkney Innovation Complex for Science and Technology on the Montgomery College campus, the new manufacturing centre will offer hands-on training and educational initiatives for students, helping to develop a pipeline of local technical talent. Students will be able to interact with leading engineers at Hughes through internships, mentoring, and shadowing opportunities. This 140,000 sqft space is the first-ever manufacturing facility on a community college campus in the US.

As a leading satellite technology and managed service provider for government entities and defence agencies, Hughes will use the new manufacturing centre to provide the US Department of Defense with much-needed, secure onshore manufacturing capabilities.

Hamid Akhavan, President and CEO, EchoStar, added: “The opening of EXM solidifies our dedication to technological innovation, engineering expertise, and fostering the next generation of industry leaders. The products imagined, designed, and fabricated in this building further advance our mission of connecting everyone, everywhere.”