Aerial intelligence company invests $14.7M in Johns Island facility

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An aerial intelligence, surveillance and renaissance systems company is bringing its operations to Johns Island.

Barzan Aeronautical LLC, a Qatari-owned, U.S.-based company, is investing $14.7 million, bringing an expected 34 jobs to the area, the S.C. Department of Commerce said in a news release.

The independent commercial company focuses on the application and use of aerial ISR systems that support the defense and security requirements of Qatar, the United States and NATO allies.

“Barzan’s investment at the Johns Island Airport is the first in the United States, and we couldn’t be more proud of them for choosing the Lowcountry of Charleston,” Charleston County Aviation Authority Executive Director and CEO Elliott Summey said in a statement. “Charleston is home to one of the largest hubs in aviation, engineering and advanced manufacturing in the United States and today’s announcement is a giant step in our mission to attract high-end aeronautical businesses and jobs to the state of South Carolina.”

The new facility at 2744 Fort Trenholm Road will be dedicated to engineering and manufacturing of unmanned aircrafts, the company said. Operations are expected to be online later next year.

“The talented workforce, strategic location and welcoming pro-growth business climate make Charleston County the ideal place to grow our company,” Barzan Aeronautical CEO John Hardwick said in a statement. “We are excited to partner with local entities to be successful, and we are looking forward to being a valuable part of the community.”