Teledyne FLIR Defense opens new 13,000 square-foot facility for drone servicing, testing and training 

SOMERSET, KY (May 12, 2025) – U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers, Dean of the House, joined state and local officials on Monday for a ribbon-cutting celebration for Teledyne FLIR’s new facility at the Valley Oak Technology Complex in Pulaski County. 

Teledyne FLIR Defense is a leading provider of unmanned aerial systems for the U.S. Armed Forces and other nations. The new larger facility will allow them to increase production and double their workforce. 

“It’s an honor to know that a product from southern Kentucky is advancing our military strategies and giving soldiers the tools they need to be more successful,” said Congressman Rogers. “It’s exciting to see more Defense contracts being fulfilled by companies in southern and eastern Kentucky and our incredible workforce.” 

Teledyne FLIR started production operations in Somerset, Kentucky in 2019. As a result of the company’s success with the local workforce and successful partnership with the Department of Defense, Teledyne FLIR has moved into a newly renovated 13,000 square foot facility at the Valley Oak Technology Complex. The new facility will serve as a critical support hub for maintenance, repair and resupply of the state-of-the-art Black Hornet nano-drones. The new facility also provides space necessary for training operations.   

“We are extremely proud to open this new training, repair, and support facility in Somerset that will support the Black Hornet, relied on by the U.S. military and our global security partners,” said Arne Skjaerpe, senior vice president of global business development at Teledyne FLIR Defense. “This day would not be possible without the tremendous support we’ve received from Congressman Rogers, SKED, and many other local people in the great Commonwealth of Kentucky.” 

“SKED has worked with the City of Somerset, Pulaski County leadership and Congressman Rogers since the early development of the Valley Oak Technology Complex,” said SKED Executive Director Brett Traver. “It was Congressman Rogers who helped SKED acquire the funding to construct this building years ago. That investment continues to pay dividends. Now, Teledyne FLIR will continue to grow its presence here. We look forward to growing our partnership with the company as they support our national defense and create quality jobs for the region.”

For more information about Congressman Rogers’ work in Washington and at home in Kentucky, visit halrogers.house.gov and follow him on social media.